Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning historic city on the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia. The city, surrounded by a majestic stone wall, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times and has influenced numerous peoples and cultures throughout the centuries.
Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik (formerly known as Ragusa) developed into an important trading city in the Mediterranean region. Over the years, Dubrovnik was under various rule, including the Byzantines and Venetians, before finally gaining its independence as a city-state. Dubrovnik's golden age was the Middle Ages, during which it was considered one of the wealthiest and most advanced maritime republics in the world.
Walking through Dubrovnik's Old Town is like traveling through time. The cobbled streets, baroque buildings and impressive palaces tell stories of a bygone era. Stradun, the Old Town's main street, is a lively center lined with historic buildings and lively cafes. Notable sights include Dubrovnik Cathedral, a magnificent Baroque building built on the ruins of an earlier 12th-century church. Also worth seeing are the Rector's Palace, the Sponza Palace and the Church of Saint Blaise.
The impressive city walls of Dubrovnik are one of the largest and best-preserved fortification systems in Europe. A walk along these walls offers breathtaking views of the city and the azure sea below. The fortresses, towers and bastions of the walls once served to protect the city and are now a testament to the impressive engineering skills of the Middle Ages.
Beyond its historical splendor, Dubrovnik has also established itself as a modern cultural center. In recent years the city has gained additional fame from the television series Game of Thrones, for which many scenes were filmed here, which has led to an increase in tourism. Annual events such as the Dubrovnik Summer Festival attract artists and culture lovers from all over the world. Despite its growing popularity, Dubrovnik has retained its charm and authenticity, ensuring it remains a popular destination among both history lovers and modern travelers.
