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Places to Visit in Dubrovnik’s Old Town

Hazel Hammond

So, what is it about this UNESCO World Heritage Site that has gained it such enamour? Be it the mystic ancient stone, dramatic fortifications or general dynamic feel. Whatever it may be, you’d best discover it for yourself. Here’s the top things to do in Dubrovnik’s Old Town.

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Walk the ancient city walls

Originally constructed to protect the city from pirates, the walls are now open to the public to gaze upon the city. Ranging from 3 – 6 metres wide & 25 metres high, the entire walk makes up 1,940 metres. The walk takes about an hour and offers breath-taking views of the sea and iconic orange roofs. Guided walks are available including ‘Game of Thrones’ or ‘Ghost’ walks.

Stradun

Stradun or Placa, is the main street. A bustling scene to behold stretching from Pile Gate to the Port. On this pedestrianised street you’ll find shops, cafes, boutiques, galleries & souvenir shops which all stand out against the fascinating fortified walls.

Lovrijenac Fort

On a rock 40 metres above the sea stands Lovrejenac Fort. Legend states that the Venetians planned to build a fortress here to conquer the city, however Dubrovnik discovered their plan and beat them to it and built the fort in under 3 months. Today the fort hosts dramatic performances of Hamlet during Dubrovnik’s summer festival and doubles as the ‘Red Keep’ in Game of Thrones.

St Johns Fortress

As part of the city walls, this fortress was built to protect the port from pirate raids. Inside the fortress there is a small aquarium and maritime museum. The fortress is located by the Old Town harbour. Opening hours reflect that of the city walls.

Gaze upon the assumption of Mary at Dubrovnik Cathedral

This large baroque cathedral holds magnificent interior artwork including the assumption of Mary. Beneath the cathedral it was revealed the foundations of an earlier Christian Basilica dating back to the 7th/8th Century. Some say the rebuild was financed by Richard the Lion Heart. Entrance is free.

Franciscan Monastery

Here is where you’ll find ‘Ljekarna Male Brace’, Europe’s oldest functioning Pharmacy dating back to 1317. Still functioning as a pharmacy today, visitors now come here to buy the famous Monks’ lush face cream made from a secret recipe. Built in the 13th century this gothic style building homes a magnificent 17th century library holding over 20,000 books and manuscripts. Located on the Old Town Main Street this monastery is well worth the visit.

Read the inscription at Sponza Palace

Sponza was once a place of business for merchants and traders until the 20th century. You can even find an inscription warning merchants not to rip each other off. Now the palace is a holding place for the city’s archives.

“Fallere nostra vetant et falli pondera. Meque pondero cum merces ponderat ipse deus”

Listen to the clock tower chime

Located on Luza Square next door to Sponza Palace, this 31-metre-high clock tower was built in 1444. Two bronze figures ‘Baro’ and ‘Maro’ flank the side of the bell and create a unique chime that plays each day at noon.

Church of St Blaise

St Blaise (the patron saint of Dubrovnik) was known for aiding the defence against a surprise attack from the Venetians, although not in body… Blaise had long been dead but came to the cathedral’s priest in a dream to alert him of the upcoming invasion. The building is now an ornate baroque church.

Orlando’s Column

In front of the Church of St Blaise, this stone statue, supporting a flag, portrays Orlando. Legend states he helped defend Ragusa during a 15-month Saracen Siege in the 800’s. The column was erected as gratitude.

Onofrio’s Fountain

Located by the west entrance, this fountain was constructed in 1438 as an intricate water supply system. Dubrovnik needed an efficient way to supply water due to its long dry summers. The monument is richly decorated with unique carvings on each side.

Pile Gate

Once a wooden drawbridge, Pile gate is now a stone bridge and the main entrance to the Old Town, above where a moat once stood.

Rectors Palace

This palace was built in the 15th century for the rector who governed Dubrovnik. The gothic building holds the rector’s chambers, office, public halls and even a dungeon. Today the palace is a cultural history museum with restored portraits and artefacts displaying the history of Dubrovnik.