In photosynthesis, does the splitting of water require light energy

Yes, and it is for this very reason that the process is referred to as photolysis.

Edit:
No, water does not absorb the photon of light directly. Chlorophyll, a green pigment located within the chloroplast, is what's actually absorbing the light energy. However, the absorption of light by chlorophyll initiates a series of reactions that ultimately results in the splitting of water.