Old City of Dubrovnik: More Than Just King’s Landing
UNESCO Sites in Croatia: Old City of Dubrovnik (visited August 2020)
Croatia’s Dubrovnik, with its majestic walls and captivating history, can easily be described as one of the most fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites. Croatia is my home country and the time has come to finally dedicate the next two weeks to its natural beauty and historical sites, and I promise you will be mind-blown 😊
About the Site
Dubrovnik’s Old City is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” and for good reason. Its fortified walls, which have stood for centuries, surround a city rich in medieval, Renaissance, and baroque architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Dubrovnik is a unique place where you can experience a blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal views.
For the people of Dubrovnik, the city is more than a tourist destination—it’s a symbol of resilience and independence. Strolling through the city's narrow streets, it’s easy to feel connected to the past and appreciate the efforts that have gone into preserving this iconic site.
I’m sorry to use only other people’s photos here, and I’m doing that only because I had an old camera when I visited the city and my photos are terrible…
Key terms explained
The Republic of Dubrovnik (Ragusa):
Dubrovnik’s strategic location as the first island-protected port on the Adriatic made it a crucial maritime center from its early development in the 7th century. It flourished as a major trading hub in the Mediterranean during the 14th and 15th centuries, achieving independence from Venice in 1358. The city entered its golden age in the 16th century, renowned for its powerful merchant navy.
The Croatian War of Independence (1991-1995) was fought between Croatian forces seeking independence from Yugoslavia and the Serb-controlled Yugoslav People's Army (JNA). The conflict arose from Croatia’s declaration of independence, leading to intense fighting, ethnic cleansing, and the siege of cities like Vukovar and Dubrovnik. The war ended with Croatia regaining control of its territory after Operation Storm in 1995, and it remains a significant event in the region’s history, shaping modern Croatia.