A Short History of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s history is a tale of resilience, diplomacy, and cultural splendor, making it one of the most iconic cities of the Adriatic.

Originally, the area was inhabited by the Illyrians, and later came under Roman influence as part of the province of Dalmatia.

It developed further under the protection of the Byzantine Empire but maintained a degree of autonomy. Over time, Slavic (Croatian) settlers merged with the Romanized population, shaping Dubrovnik’s unique culture.

It became an important port and settlement for the Venetian Empire before the rise of the Republic of Ragusa which lasted from 1358 to 1808

In 1358 after the Treaty of Zadar, Dubrovnik freed itself from Venetian rule and became a self-governing republic under Hungarian (later Ottoman) sovereignty

The Republic of Ragusa(Dubrovnik) became a major maritime and trading power, rivaling Venice. It established diplomatic relations across Europe and the Mediterranean and became known for its skilled diplomacy , avoiding direct conquest by the Ottomans by paying tribute.

The city flourished in art, architecture, and literature during the Renaissance, with landmarks like the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and the city walls built during this time. Dubrovnik was a center of early humanism and had one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe(opened in 1317).

A devastating earthquake in 1667 destroyed much of the city, killing thousands and weakening its economy. The rise of Atlantic trade routes then reduced Dubrovnik’s importance in Mediterranean commerce.

In 1808, Napoleon’s forces abolished the Republic of Ragusa and it was later incorporated into the Austrian Empire (1815) as part of the Kingdom of Dalmatia.

After World War I Dubrovnik became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.During World War II
It was occupied by Italy and later Nazi Germany before becoming part of Communist Yugoslavia.

In 1991after Croatia declared independence, Dubrovnik was besieged by Yugoslav forces (Serb-Montenegrin troops) during the Croatian War of Independence. The city suffered significant damage but was later restored.

Today, Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site( since 1979) and a major tourist destination, famous for its well-preserved medieval walls baroque buildings, and as a filming location for Game of Thrones (as King’s Landing).

Destination: Croatia