Visiting Dubrovnik – Pearl of the Adriatic Coast
Being one of the most well-known tourist resort areas in the Mediterranean, the seaport and city of Dubrovnik are rightly called the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. Located on the Adriatic Sea and one of the oldest cities in Croatia, Dubrovnik has much to offer the curious traveler.
The history of Dubrovnik is rooted deep in maritime trade, as it was the one city-state capable of being a rival to the massive Venetian efforts in trade by sea. From the middle ages, Dubrovnik has relied on its experience in diplomacy and wealth to survive during ages of war and conflict. Thanks to prudent local rulers, the city had managed to achieve a truly impressive level of local development as the 15th-16th centuries rolled by. Many writers, poets and painters as well as scientists and scholars have given their due to humanity while originating from Dubrovnik.
Today Dubrovnik is a major focal point of tourism in Croatia. Many world celebrities have professed that this place has a unique magic of its own. George Bernard Shaw, for one, considered Dubrovnik a paradise on Earth. The city has an impressive array of gorgeous architecture, houses, museums, monasteries, churches and fountains among other things. Nearby, your visit may include the Peljesac Peninsula, Mljet Island, the beautiful town of Cavtat, the Konavle Valley and Korčula Island. You may even visit the picturesque town of Mostar, known for its bridge spanning the Neretva river. The nearby towns of Perast and Kotor also offer some interesting trips during your stay.
But the Old Town of Dubrovnik will offer you the best chances to enjoy some local cultural opportunities and entertainment. I recommend:
- Roland’s Column, also known as Orlando’s Column has a large, slender flag staff rising from the statue named after a legendary knight. The first flag was raised here in 1950 and since then the local Dubrovnik Summer Festival officially opens by raising a flag to his honor.
- The Bell Tower offers a chance to see the famous “Zelenci”, the green statues made of bronze which strike the bell of the tower each hour. The original statues have sadly been replaced due to their age and are now located in the atrium of the Sponza Palace.
- The Sponza Palace is a place built in a Gothic Renaissance style, one of the very few buildings around the city which survived the devastating earthquake of 1667 which decimated the city. Today it holds a range of historic archives of the local area and its past.
- If you are in town, you must visit the Placa Stradun, which is the main street of the city of Dubrovnik and a place you will long remember when you walk there. The local shops, paired with the picturesque side streets and restaurants as well as other sources of entertainment offer much to the weary traveler.
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About The Author: This post was written by Angie Halpert on behalf of http://travelfromto.com/
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Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
