“If you want to see Heaven on Earth, come to Dubrovnik!” (G.B.Shaw)

“If you want to see Heaven on Earth, come to Dubrovnik!” Enchanted by its beauty, harmony, splendor and everything else that makes it so special and unique on international scale, this is what famous Irish writer George Bernard Shaw wrote upon his visit to Dubrovnik in 1929. This small town, located at the southern tip of Croatia has been on the cover of many respectful magazines throughout the world and proudly bears the title of one of the most beautiful cities of the world. For all these reasons, it attracts many tourists of good repute such as actors, musicians and other artists, royal families and international jet setters. Once, it used to be a city-state a renowned Republic of Dubrovnik, which, right next to Venice, used to be the strongest Adriatic centre. Today, it is considered to be one of the most attractive tourist destinations of the Mediterranean bringing together the old and the new: long history and dynamics of a modern European city. This pearl of Croatian Adriatic was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 and boasts numerous protected historic landmarks. Old city of Dubrovnik is surrounded by 2 km long city walls with many fortresses and towers which kept it safe from different enemy attacks throughout history. Inside the walls, there are many impressive structures (palaces, churches, monasteries and monuments) Dubrovnik is famous for. A walk around the city walls is a remarkable experience and an absolute must.

Proximity of numerous spectacular islands (Lokrum, Elafits, Mljet, Korcula), magical scenery and breathtaking viewpoints, almost untouched nature and beautifully incorporated traditional Mediterranean architecture make this city one of the most attractive tourist destinations. Therefore, visit Dubrovnik and become one of many to confirm the words of famous G. B. Shaw.

Freedom (Libertas) above all!!! In Republic of Dubrovnik, freedom was considered to be one of the most important values. For this reason, its famous flag bore LIBERTAS (Freedom) in capital letters. This is confirmed by the fact that the Republic of Dubrovnik was the first in Europe to abolish slavery and prohibit transport of slaves in 1416. All around Dubrovnik, tributes to freedom can be seen. Thus, on fort Lovrijenac, there is Latin inscription in stone which reads:” Freedom is not to be sold for all the gold of the world”

History is evident throughout the entire city which is at the same time both a museum and a stage where cultural heritage meets modern lifestyle. Historical core is encircled by monumental walls preserved at their original state and open for visitors as the greatest landmark of Dubrovnik. The Minceta Tower, St. John’s Fortress, FortsLovrijenac, Bokar, Revelin and St. Luke’s, Rector’s Palace, Franciscan Monastery, Church of St. Blaise, protector of the city and Orlando’s Column are but a few witnesses of history which, at one glance, bring long gone days back to life.

Dubrovnik Summer Festival- the most well- known Croatian festival! Dubrovnik Summer Festival is the oldest and the most reputable Croatian festival. Unique atmosphere of this proud city (streets, squares and ancient city walls) hosts numerous musical, drama and dance performances between 10th July and 25th August. Over the years, world’s composers, soloists, orchestras and actors of highest rank have taken part in Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

How did Dubrovnik help the USA? The Republic of Dubrovnik was the first country in the world to recognize the USA in 1783. Encouraged, other countries followed its lead.

Swimming overlooking the Walls. Many tourist magazines have proclaimed the beach bellow the city walls to be one of the most beautiful ones in Europe. Swimming while enjoying the view of the walls, remnants of the old times, is a unique experience.

Arboretum Trsteno near Dubrovnik, erected in 15th century, is the oldest one in the world. This renaissance park boasts some very interesting and exotic plants, among which, two 400-year-old plane trees.Stylish footpaths are beautifully incorporated into lush vegetation.

What to visit?

- Magnificent Walls of Dubrovnik are one of the best defense systems in Europe. They are 1940 meters long, built from 13th until 17th century. They encircle the old city with four forts: Minceta, Bokar, St. John and Revelin. Today, they host many cultural events and concerts and Minceta is one of the nicest wedding ceremony venues.

- The Fort of St. Lawrence (Lovrijenac)also known as Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar, sits proudly on a cliff outside the city walls, 37 meters above the sea level. Throughout history, it has been a symbol of resistance against the Venetian rule. It is triangular in shape with two bridges on its entrance. Above the main gate, there is an inscription in Latin which says:” Freedom is not to be sold for all the gold of the world!” Today, it hosts many theatrical performances, among which, Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”.

- Orlando’s Column is the oldest preserved public sculpture. The story of how this statue came to be is closely tied to legendary hero Roland (Orlando), nephew of Carl the Great, who helped to defend the city from dangerous attacks of Saracens. It was erected in 15th century as a symbol of freedom and independence. Today, a ceremony before Orlando and the raising of the “Libertas” flag on the column mark the opening of Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

- Church of St. Blaise, the protector of the city is located on the main square. The statue of St. Blaise holding a small model of the city has remained intact in the big earthquake and fire.

- The Sponza Palace- at the time of Republic of Dubrovnik, it used to have many purposes, it worked as a customs service, bank and a school. Every year, on the square before it, Dubrovnik Summer Festival is opened.

- Rector’s Palace- Seat of Small Council and residence of the Rector, the highest official in the Republic of Dubrovnik. Today it is used as an exhibition hall for paintings of great masters as well as a venue for classical music concerts.

- Franciscan Monastery– inventory of third oldest European pharmacy is kept in monastery museum.

- Stradun – the main street, famed walking area of Dubrovnik. New Year’s Eve celebration organized over the last decade has brought Dubrovnik international fame and has listed it among some of the most attractive tourist destinations of the world.