21 June 2024
Dubrovnik has much to offer, from its imposing, sea-kissed fortress walls, red roof tiles and palatial architecture (as seen on Game of Thrones) to its rich history and delicious food and wine. In fact, this medieval, cliffside marvel has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for over four decades, and was beautifully restored in the aftermath of the of the Croatian War of Independence in the ’90s.
We spent a few nights here in the company of Mariz and Stefan, strolling around the beautiful, old limestone streets of the town (also spotlessly clean), visiting museums and churches and admiring the gorgeous views out to sea. Unfortunately, Dubrovnik has also become a victim of its own success and is quite crowded with hordes of tourists (especially when several cruise ships are docked there at the same time), most of whom can be found in Stradun, the main street.
This is also where many key historic monuments are located, including St. Blaise’s Catholic Church, dedicated to the patron saint of Dubrovnik; the Church of St. Ignatius, which houses the city’s oldest bell erected in 1355; and two monasteries also dating back to the 14th century. But no tour of the Old Town would be complete without a visit to Rector’s Palace. Located in the heart of the city in Luza Square, this Gothic-Renaissance structure was built in the 15th century as the official residence of the city’s rectors—who each served as the leader of the Republic of Dubrovnik for one-month terms.
Today, the site houses the city’s Cultural Museum, which features over 10,000 artifacts ranging from furniture to fashion, artwork, coins, and armory from the 14th to 20th centuries. We could also inspect the original treaties signed by all the kings of Europe over the centuries, guaranteeing the independence of the small city-state which played a diplomatic role not unlike Switzerland in the world today.
Entry to the Palace is not free but is included in the Dubrovnik Pass, which includes access to a handful of other museums in the area starting at 35 euros for the day. The pass also covers access to the iconic Old Town Walls, a must do, and which alone would set you back 29 euros. The views from the walls is simply stunning.
The weather was warm and sunny when we were there. The crystal clear waters and the beaches are also beautiful - especially contrasting with the view of spectacular walls of the old town. The only downside was the fact that they are all pebble beaches rather than sandy.
There is much to like in Dubrovnik but it is not cheap (compared to other places in the Balkans): the expensive boutiques in the old, ancient buildings just don't match, a unique historical and cultural place turned into some sort of shopping mall for the rich. Nevertheless, it is impossible not to fall in love with the sea, the mountains, the beaches and the old city, all mixed into one scenery. Despite the downsides, there are many more things to like than dislike in this ancient city and a visit there is highly recommended.
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