The 'Pearl of the Adriatic', situated
on the Dalmatian coast, became an important
Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards.
Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667,
Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic,
Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces
and fountains. In 1991/2, the Serbs shelled the city
causing considerable damage, but thanks to local efforts
and international aid, the old town has been restored to
its former beauty.
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.