Dubrovnik - The City Of History

Located near the calm blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one of the most adventure and attraction-rich cities in Croatia. It is also ranked as one of the best tour destinations for families. The city has a rich culture and history, in addition to awesome beaches, fascinating objects to see and lots of opportunities for broadening knowledge and adventuring. It is regarded a highly valuable UNESCO heritage site and is one of the most valuable resources in Croatia as far as tourism is concerned. Below are some things to learn about ancient city of Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik City Walls

One of the most notable historical features that tourists come across as they approach the city are medieval defensive City Walls of Dubrovnik. These walls run about 2 kilometers in length and are surrounding Dubrovnik’s Old Town. History has it that these walls were constructed as far back as the 13th century, even though they were rebuilt during the Turkish invasion eras in the 14th and 15th centuries. Most amazingly, some points of the wall are as thick as 6 meters and reaching 24 meters in height. They are also enclosed by fascinating towers and forts that both local and foreign tourists find incredibly fascinating. Among these walls are shot some of the scenes for popular TV show Game Of Thrones.

Minceta Tower

While speaking of towers on the city walls, it would be wrong not to mention impressive Minceta Tower, the symbol of Dubrovnik. Minceta was initially constructed by local engineer Nicifor Ranjina in the 14th century and up to this day presents the highest point on the City Walls of Dubrovnik. Naturally, view from Minceta Tower provides quite amazing experience as visitors can observe both the city, Adriatic Sea and surroundings of Dubrovnik. It was named after the Minceta family, who were the original owners of the land where the tower is built. Minceta is one of the most popular sightseeing attractions for tourists in the city.

Stradun Street

Another huge attraction both for history buffs and casual visitors is Stradun Street. With only 300 meters in length, this is one of the most frequent street in Dubrovnik. But aside from that, its also a street with great number of cultural objects and attractions. Few of most notable are: Pile Gate, Orlando Column, Onofrio’s Fountains and the Church of Holy Savior. In addition to elegant historic building and breathtaking structures, the street provides an awesome experience for lovers of shopping, with plenty of prestigious shops, cafes, restaurants and much more.

Church Of Saint Blaise

This historical site and Christian religious building was constructed back in the 15th century. Devastating earthquake that struck Dubrovnik in 1667 has left the church highly damaged, just to be finished off by a fire incident in 1706. Reconstruction of the church has started shortly after by Marina Gropellija, an architect from Venice, and completed by 1715. Church Of Saint Blaise was built in Baroque architectural style. Interior of the church is decorated with variety of ornaments, with imposing statue of Saint Blaise, constructed in Gothic style, standing in the center of the main altar. Saint Blaise is patron saint of Dubrovnik and one of the most common motifs in the work of local artists.

Lokrum Island

Lush island Lokrum, located just 600 meters off the shores of Dubrovnik is another famous attraction for visitors of Dubrovnik, reachable only by boat charter and ferry services. Island is surrounded by elegant rocky beaches and swimming spots. Since 1976, Lokrum has been named Special Reserve of Forest Vegetation. Cars on Lokrum are prohibited in order to preserve it’s rich natural wonders. Lokrum is also home for another historical sight, ant that is Benedictine monastery located at the center of the island, with its own garden and a museum. One more notable attraction here is Botanical Garden, founded in 1959. Today, garden is a host to more than 500 different tropical and non-tropical herbal species.

And that’s in short Dubrovnik, an ancient town with has lot to offer, not only to cultural travelers, but for casuals as well. Locals of the city are well versed in English language, so don’t hesitate to ask them for directions and advices. Mediterraneans are known for their hospitality, and that stands correct for people of Dubrovnik as well.