by Romeo Demes
A visit to Dubrovnik is always fascinating owing to the hidden and mysterious sacred geometry and architecture. There are various sacred and religious sites that represent the different traditions and cultures of Croatia and most of them have been included in UNESCO’s list of world heritages. It is not surprising to note that these sites have significant value to the locals and visiting Dubrovnik will not be complete without paying a visit to these remarkable attractions. Some of the sacred and religious sites in Dubrovnik have a long history and can termed as some of the oldest in the world. Their vital importance has seen them protected to help safeguard cultural diversity of Dubrovnik, which is known as the “city of tolerance”.
The Dominican Monastery
The monastery was finished in the late 15th century but it consists of a church which was completed in early 14th century. It is located next to the north-eastern walls. It is however interesting to note that despite the completion of the monastery in the 15th century, the Dominican order is much older having been established in 1225 in Dubrovnik. The monastery played an important role in the city’s defense owing to its strategic positioning in the Old Town plus the church is one of the biggest gothic structures in eastern Adriatic coast. On the southern side of the church you will find an impressive portal of Romanesque which houses old gothic ornaments dating all the way back to 1419. Next to the church, you’ll find the chapel of St Sebastian which was built in 15th century.
St Saviour Church
This is one of the oldest sacred sites in Dubrovnik. It was built in the early 1500s and stands as a real architectural attraction especially considering that it survived the massive earthquake that hit the city in 1667. The church is open for candlelight concerts and occasional exhibitions and will make for an ideal site to visit during holidays.
The synagogue
Although it gained legal status in 1408, the synagogue was established in 1352 thus making it the second oldest synagogue throughout Europe. Located along Zudioska Ulica, the two storey building has Saracen style arch windows which are inscribed with the words, “Be blessed upon your arrival” on the top. The synagogue went through renovation works in 1652 and has stood strong despite being hit by two earthquakes and one bombardment on the roof in 1992. This sacred site houses a Jewish museum which contains Torah scrolls and valuable menorahs plus information about Dubrovnik Jewish community
The Church of St Blaise
This old church is dedicated to St Blaise, the patron saint of Dubrovnik. It is located opposite to the Sponza Palace and was built in 1715. Designed and built by the respected Italian architect, Gropelli, the church has a Venetian baroque style. During the night, its stained glass windows look stunning when lit and it will make for a nice place to visit or gaze at. Some of the most significant events for Dubrovnik are held at the front steps of the church including night opening ceremony for Dubrovnik Summer Festival and New Year’s Eve.
Other sacred and religious sites in Dubrovnik include the Sigurata Church and Convent (formerly Transfiguratio Domini) which dates back to 1281, St Ignatius’ Church, located on the southern edge of the Old Town and the Franciscan Monastery. All these sacred sites makes for an ideal place to visit during your holiday to help you have a feel of Dubrovnik’s culture and rich history.
Useful resources for visitors:
If you decide to visit Dubrovnik via plane – Dubrovnik Airport
If you decide to visit Dubrovnik via water – Croatia Marinas and Sailing Guide (with important numbers and danger signals)
About the author:
Romeo Demes is a passionate writer who is sharing interesting information about amazing places he visited with others on various websites and on his own travel blog called TravelingPride.com