Dubrovnik is a small wonder of the world! Thanks to its cunning diplomatic efforts and strong merchant fleet, the Republic of Ragusa could prosper and ensure neutral position in the company of two powerful states – Venetian Republic and Ottoman Empire. The tiny city-state was a small oasis of freedom and cultural prosperity. Therefore Dubrovnik is packed with a large number of monuments and the old city is listed as a World Heritage Site. Its beauty is in harmonious city planning, a truly fascinating piece or architecture that will leave you speechless.

STROLLING DOWN THE STRADUN

Stradun (Placa) is not just a regular thoroughfare, and therefore a strll down the Stradun is not just a stroll. It is a unique cultural experience, the mixture of old and new, real and imaginary, one of the most beautiful city centres in the Mediterranean. Do not rush, enjoy your walk, sit in one of cafes and have a cup of coffee or juice, order a cake or ice cream and just listen the town buzz and crying of swifts: Numerous landmarks are located on or near the street so you can just walk and soak up the beauty of the city.

CITY WALLS

Impressive ramparts stretching for almost 2km are representative for Dubrovnik’s image. Do not hesitate to go on a walk down the city walls and revel in the beauty of the old town.

DUBROVNIK SUMMER FESTIVAL

One of the oldest summer festivals in Europe guarantees  you 45 days of excellent events, concerts and theatre plays. Make sure to reserve your tickets on time and go to the Lovrijenac Fort, Rector’s Palace atrium or one of city’s squares or poljana. This excellent combination of beautiful venues and fine production is another reason why you should not miss some of the festival plays. The recital of the Ode to Liberty during the opening ceremony has always been  a deep emotional experience.

MONASTERIES AND CHURCHES

Sacral buildings in Dubrovnik are architectural master-pieces; the Romanesque and Gothic cloister of the Franciscan monastery, Gothic and Renaissance cloister of the Dominican monastery while the cathedral, church of St. Blaise and Jesuit church of St Ignatius are splendid examples of Baroque style. Several smaller churches have remarkable architectural features. These buildings keep the history, culture and tradition of Dubrovnik in their collections, museums, libraries and interior features.

ST BLAISE (SV. VLAHO)

Few towns have such a relationship for such a long period with their patrons like Dubrovnik has with St Blaise. He has helped Dubrovnik on many occasions; first in 971 when he saved the city from the Venetians. Although he was not around during the 1667 earthquake, he miraculously saved his statue in 1706 fire. His last help was during the Homeland War when Dubrovnik repelled combined Serbian and Montenegrin attacks. Town folks thank him annually for guarding them in a large procession and his statues are all over the city. Everywhere you go in Dubrovnik, St Blaise watches you!

 

Text is taken from Dubrovnik – The Riviera and islands by J. Žilić, D. Pek and F.Kozina