The old town was completed in the 13th century and remains virtually unchanged to the present day. Tall ramparts surround it and there are only two entrances to the old town which lead to the Stradun, the city's promenade. One of the greatest pleasures for many visitors is to have a drink in one of the nearby cafes and watch the world go by, whilst they themselves are being watched by the city patron, St. Blaise, or Sveti Vlaho as the locals call him. In 1991/2, the Serbs shelled the city causing considerable damage, but thanks to local effort and international aid, the old town has been restored to its former beauty. But whatever we say, our words do not give justice to this dazzling place. So come soon and see it with your own eyes!

Getting there

Dubrovnik is the most south-easterly city in Croatia, and the most practical way to reach the city is to do so by air. There are daily flights from Zagreb, and weekly flights from several other European cities. It can also be reached by bus from Zagreb (which takes about 12 hours), Rijeka or Split. The most pleasant journey to the city is probably by ferry from Rijeka, which stops at many islands and ports along the way, and takes about 17 hours. There is also an international ferry service from Bari in Italy.

Things to see

You will probably enter the old town through the Pile Gate - in front of you is the Stradun. Here you will find the Onofrio Fountain, built in 1438. On the right is the Franciscan Monastery, with one of the oldest functioning pharmacies in Europe, in operation since 1391. At the other end of the Stradun, you will find the locals' favourite meeting place, the Orlando Column, with nearby Sponza Place and the baroque church of St. Blaise. Here is also the Rector's Palace, built in 1441, which is now a city museum packed with valuable and historic exhibits. Opposite the palace through a narrow street is a square, Gunduliceva Poljana, which is the site of the busy morning market. In the same square is the Jesuit Monastery from the early 18th century. From here you can head for the little, old town port and visit the city walls, built between the 13th and the 16th centuries, which encircle the city and which have been remarkably preserved .