When I was in Dubrovnik, almost 30 years ago, I didn't walk the City Walls surrounding the Old Town and I have regretted it ever since. When Jamie and I decided to include Dubrovnik in our travels , walking the walls was my top priority. Fortunately, the day we did the walk, the weather had cooled down and there were fewer tourist because schools had started throughout Europe.. People watching was still great, but nothing like the crowds of July and August. I would suggest avoiding the city when the cruise ships arrive because it really becomes hard to move around freely. Worth noting, the entrance fee is 200 Kuna, which is under $35.00 to date and they do accept credit cards, but not American Express.
The city walls were built back in the 10th century and fortified with several towers in the 15th century. Most of the city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1667. Only a few buildings survived including the beautiful stone streets which were built around 1460. The city suffered extensive damage again during the Homeland War, starting in 1991. The Croatian War of independence fought against the Yugoslav People's Army lasted almost eight months ending in May 1992. It's hard to imagine the destruction at that time seeing the beauty of the city today.
At the beginning of the walk you can see the Fountain of Onofrio, built by Onofrio de la Cava who also built the city's water supply system. ( bottom photo)
Also at the beginning of the walk rising from the sea is Fort Lovrijenac, which is a separate fortress that gave extra protection to the city from land and sea invaders. Your ticket includes access to this fort.
The walk is just over a mile long and took us two hours to complete. That was with stops for photos and a stop for a smoothie break at Salvatore, a great little cafe overlooking the island of Lokrum. The cafe is located about halfway through the walk.
We were prepared for the walk fortified with plenty of water, sunscreen, good walking shoes, and wide brimmed hats. We could see why they call Dubrovnik the Pearl of the Adriatic with its cultural and historical heritage. The sheer magnificence of the city with the stunning views, the red tile roofs and the turquoise sea pounding the outer city walls, makes it feel like a dream or a fantasy come to life.
The walk is all about the views, not only the sea views but the homes and patios of people that live within the walls. You see basketball courts, home gardens and people's laundry hanging out to dry. We even got to look into the famous Lady Pi Pi Restaurant with it's rather unique fountain in front of the restaurant!
Walking the City Walls of Dubrovnik should be on everyone's bucket list. I think this photo of Jamie says it all...the excitement at the start and the exhausting, but gratifying finish!
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