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Dubrovnik is a historic city situated on the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia, holding a strategic position along the Adriatic Sea.
Notably, it features a well-preserved Old Town encircled by robust 13th-century city walls.
With a population of around 41,562 residents, the Old Town itself spans an area of about 144 acres, offering a captivating labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, historic squares, and iconic landmarks.
On the other hand, Dubrovnik, a key “Game of Thrones” filming location, provides a captivating backdrop resembling King’s Landing.
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The Main Street and Main Sights in Dubrovnik
Stradun, also known as Placa, is the main street that runs through the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.
This limestone-paved street is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Additionally, the Rector’s Palace, now a museum, provides insight into the city’s political history, while the Franciscan Monastery houses one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe.
The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary boasts impressive works of art, including Titian’s polyptych.
Stradun showcases Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles in Sponza Palace and the Church of St. Blaise.
Fortresses and Towers
The extensive city walls with several fortresses and towers of Dubrovnik, dating back to the 13th century, once served as defensive structures.
The walls, nearly 2 kilometers long, offer panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
Fort Lovrijenac, often called “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar,” sits on a cliff offering stunning city views. The fortress features massive stone walls with a triangular layout, sturdy bastions, and a prominent gate.
The Minceta Tower, the highest point on the city walls, features a circular design with a tapered top.
Bokar Fortress, with a pentagonal shape and a cannons platform, complements Dubrovnik’s fortifications by the sea.
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Historical Evolution of Dubrovnik
Founded in the 7th century by refugees fleeing from Epidaurus, Dubrovnik evolved into the Republic of Ragusa in the 14th century, a maritime republic that thrived on trade and diplomacy.
Becoming a major Adriatic force, Dubrovnik navigated political shifts, establishing itself as a commerce and culture hub.
Dubrovnik’s commitment to autonomy is seen in its unique political system, with elected officials and a governing Senate.
After the 1667 earthquake, Dubrovnik underwent extensive reconstruction, resulting in the iconic Baroque-style Old Town buildings we see today.
Despite challenges in the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s, modern Dubrovnik emerged resilient, preserving its rich history and cultural heritage.