Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, the greatest pearl of Adriatic Sea, situated in the extreme South of Croatia, was founded of a rugged limestone peninsula in the 7th century. Famous by its medieval walls and fortifications surrounding the Old town, its marble-paved squares and the main square „Stradun“, steep cobbled streets, churches, palaces, Onofrio’s fountain and museums, all built of the same color stone. Dubrovnik is one of the famous tourist destinations in Croatia.
During its past, thanks to its wealth and skilled diplomacy, Dubrovnik was the only eastern Adriatic city to rival Venice and it reached a remarkable level of development and prosperity. Dubrovnik formed a republic in that period, called Dubrovnik Repulic.
Each corner of the town is a unique experience that makes all occasions special. The finest Renaissance sight is the Sponza Palace dating from the 16th century. The Rectors Palace is a Gothic-Renaissance architectural structure displaying finely-carved capitals and an ornate staircase. The Church of St. Savior and Franciscan Monastery were also built in Renaissance period and are one of the most visiting sights of the town. Dominican Monastery resembles a fortress on the outside but the interior a library with more than 220 incunabula, numerous illustrated manuscripts and documents, and marvelous art collection. The City Walls, built within period from 8th to 16th century, encompass the entire city of Dubrovnik with a total length of 1940 meters, 5 bastions, 3 round and 12 square shaped towers.
The Galery of Modern art is situated in front of the Old Town, in the area called Ploce, with a very large collection of paintings.
From modern architecture, on the very entrance of Dubrovnik, Dr Franje Tuđmana bridge has been built.
Many poets and artists made their lifetime achievements inspiring with the beauty of this town.
The city offers plenty cultural events, from which one of the most important is Dubrovnik Summer Festival. During that period keys of the Old town are given to artists who entertain Dubrovnik's population and visitors for entire month with live plays, concerts and games.
Lokrum, a sub-tropical island with the unspoiled nature, is just 15 minutes sail from the Old Town. On the island is situated old Benedictine monastery from 12th century, leaving breathless to any visitor. The special beauty of the island is small salt lake, called “Dead Sea”.
The town is also well known by water polo and water sports. Gruz swimming pool is one of the most beautiful in whole Europe. Most of the beaches offer various sports and recreational facilities. Other activities which can be done in the town and near settlements are tennis, sport fishing, diving, horseback riding, bungee jumping and cycling.