- Introduction
- Explore Dubrovnik – The Unique Beauty of the Balkans
- The Rich History of Dubrovnik
- Old Town in Dubrovnik
- Dubrovnik’s James Bond – Dušan Popov 007
- Game of Thrones Dubrovnik
- Conclusion
Introduction
Dubrovnik, a city in the Balkans in Croatia, is one of those cities that will leave you breathless the moment you step on its soil! Located in the very south of Dalmatia, it represents Croatia’s most important historical and touristic center.
This city used to be an important cultural and commercial center, and today this Pearl of the Adriatic is a significant historical and tourist city for Croatia and the entire Balkans. Words cannot adequately describe the beauty of Dubrovnik; only those who have visited can experience the Mediterranean atmosphere it offers.
On our Balkan tour in April, one day will be dedicated to visiting Dubrovnik. You will get to know many important parts of the city such as the Old Town and Stradun, as well as historical sights like the Orlando sculpture and the Dubrovnik Clock Tower.
In this blog, you will learn everything about Dubrovnik, its historical significance, and its beauty. Explore Dubrovnik and the Balkans with Balkland!
Explore Dubrovnik – The Unique Beauty of the Balkans
Dubrovnik City Walls
To defend the city from enemies, strong and defensive Dubrovnik city walls were built. The walls date from the 12th to the 17th century and stretch for about 2 kilometers. They consist of fortifications, towers, and bastions, effectively protecting Dubrovnik from attacks.
Their impressive thickness and height intimidated enemies, and today tourists admire them. The height of the walls varies, reaching up to 25 meters in some places, providing excellent views and security. The thickness ranges from 1.5 to 6 meters.
The “Heaven on Earth” walls became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, recognizing their historical importance for Croatia and the entire Balkans!
“He who seeks heaven on earth should visit Dubrovnik.” – George Bernard Shaw
Karaka Ship
During the 15th and 16th centuries, the Karaka ship was used for maritime exploration and trade. The Dubrovnik carrack is one of the most famous and belongs to the largest ships of that era, carrying expensive cargo, mostly weapons and cannons to defend against pirates.
This ship has high sides, a wide hull, and three to four masts. Today, you can watch the sunset on a sunset tour with Balkland aboard this very ship that once fought against pirates!
Onofrio’s Fountain
During your stay in this magical city, you must visit Onofrio’s Fountain, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture located on the main square of Stradun.
The fountain was named after the Italian architect Onofria della Cava, who created this project back in 1438. It was once a vital source of drinking water for the inhabitants of Dubrovnik. The fountain’s main feature is a large round pool with 16 water outlets symbolizing the 16 Dubrovnik water sources.
St. Jakov Beach
The “Pearl of the Adriatic” also has beautiful beaches, one of which is the famous St. Jakov Beach. This beach is only a few kilometers from the Old Town and can be easily reached by car or on foot. If you decide to hike, you will enjoy a romantic walk along the promenade.
When you arrive at St. Jakov Beach, you will have a view of the beautiful Old Town and the island of Lokrum, especially during sunset when the sky creates picturesque scenes.
After swimming, enjoy a walk through Stradun, the main street in Dubrovnik.
Stradun – Main Street of Dubrovnik
For Dubrovnik’s residents, Stradun was once the primary trade route, while today it is a place for public celebrations and events such as parades and the traditional Dubrovnik Summer Festival.
Stradun is surrounded by different architectural styles, including Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic, delighting many tourists who visit this Balkan city.
This narrow street is paved with white marble slabs, creating a special charm and authenticity. In Stradun, you can sit in various cafes and restaurants to enjoy the beauty of this place.
Rich History
Historically, Dubrovnik has successfully resisted sieges and maintained its autonomy. First mentioned in the 7th century, Dubrovnik’s initial settlements formed at the site of the current town. From then until the 10th century, the city became an autonomous maritime state, the center of shipping and trade with the rest of the Balkans.
Under the influence of the Venetians, Dubrovnik fell into a period from the 14th to the 15th century, after which it broke free, marking the beginning of its golden age. The city became one of the most important commercial and cultural centers in the Mediterranean and the Balkans, with many buildings constructed during the Renaissance.
Later, Dubrovnik fell under the hands of Napoleon and then the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, and during the Second World War, the city was under Italian occupation.
Interesting fact: In 1783, Dubrovnik diplomacy was among the first to recognize the independence of the United States of America.
From 1991 until today, Dubrovnik has returned to its role as a cultural and tourist center, attracting many tourists from around the world who admire its lasting beauty!
If you wish to visit Dubrovnik, you can do so with our Balkan tour. Experience its historical and Mediterranean atmosphere and return home with unforgettable memories!
Old Town in Dubrovnik
The Old Town has preserved its historical beauty and stunning buildings over the years. The Balkan peoples take pride in the fact that the Old Town is located in the Balkans, sharing only good stories about this city.
Located between the City Walls, the Old Town represents the heart of Dubrovnik, full of historical sights, narrow stone streets, squares, and imposing buildings. Upon arrival, you will recognize it immediately by the stone houses with red roofs that provide an authentic medieval look.
In the Old Town, you can visit the Church of Saint Blaise, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Built in the Baroque style, it is one of the most important architectural buildings in the city.
Be sure to climb Fort Lovrijenac, also known as Fort St. Lawrence, located along the shore of the Old Town, offering spectacular views of the sea and the city.
Dubrovnik’s James Bond – Dušan Popov 007
In addition to its natural and historical beauties, Dubrovnik hides another interesting secret. Did you know that the James Bond character is not entirely fictional? A man who lived and grew up in Dubrovnik inspired the character Magenta 007.
His name is Dušan Popov, born in 1912 in Titel (then Austria-Hungary, now Serbia). He moved to Dubrovnik in his childhood. The real agent 007 was a very intelligent man, fluent in several languages, and studied worldwide. He eventually opened a law firm and became a double agent due to his connections.
Duško, as he was fondly called, loved women, gambling, and Dubrovnik. Although he traveled extensively, he always returned joyfully to his hometown.
Interesting fact: It is assumed that his code name 007 was inspired by the last three digits of his office's telephone number in Dubrovnik.
Later, Dubrovnik’s James Bond was awarded the Order of the British Empire. After the war, he moved to France, where he married twice and had three sons.
Game of Thrones Dubrovnik
The beautiful walls of Dubrovnik attract not only tourists but also film and series producers. One of the main sets of the popular series “Game of Thrones” was filmed here.
Stone walls, city gates, alleys, and imposing buildings like the Prince’s Palace and the Church of Saint Blaise represented King’s Landing in the series.
The greenery of Fort Lovrijenac, located along the coast, represented the Red Fortress. Many more locations in this beautiful Croatian city were used to shoot different scenes. With our Balkan tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the places where scenes from the famous series were filmed.
Conclusion
The south of Croatia, the Adriatic Sea, and the preserved walls are symbols of Dubrovnik. Arriving in Dubrovnik, you will experience a Mediterranean atmosphere you’ll remember forever. The city offers much, from its long history to the natural beauties that make it unique!
All Balkan countries bring many cultural, historical, and natural beauties. A trip to the Balkans is not an ordinary tourist trip but a real adventure where you will learn and discover many interesting things. Go on unforgettable adventures with Balkland and get to know the Balkans with us!
Find out about the Balkan Tour and see which countries and natural beauties you will visit with us!