Dubrovnik 2009

We finished the formalities at Montenegro's border with Croatia and again drove into the very distinct 'no-mans land', ~2kms long before reaching Croatia and re-gaining entry.  

We were searching for an apartment located somewhere in a labyrinth of small roads tangled amongst the building's.  It took awhile as we searched down narrow roadways, curious onlookers wondering where on earth we thought we were going, especially since they knew most were dead ends.  

Some even waved to us as we reversed back out again, most roads too narrow for us to turn around.

Well we did eventually find the apartment, located outside of the walled city of Dubrovnik but we did have teasing views of part of the city and the Adriatic sea beyond it.

Dubrovnik

Exploring the alleys of Dubrovnik

Everyone was keen to start exploring this very famous city, believed to have been founded during the 7th century. 

It took a bit of a trek down about 200+ steps before reaching pathways taking us toward a bridge and the big open timber gates welcoming us into this stunning city.

Whilst internally much like Kotor, Dubrovnik has limestone paved roads, alleys and laneways and these are 'polished' as a result of the masses of tourists visiting it every year, and yes there are famous brand shops everywhere.  

This is a true world tourist destination!

Dubrovnik's famous massive surrounding wall was completed during the 16th century and has for centuries protected its residents and the many baroque style buildings within it, a fountain built in the 15th century and the elegant St Blaise's Church built during the 18th century.

The wall dominates this city so it was up this structure we climbed to take a 3 hour stroll around its bounds, an excellent way to see the whole city and enjoy it.

Walking the wall above Dubrovnik

As you walk the wall you see first hand some of the recent history of Dubrovnik in the form of new tiles on any roofs.  "History?" I hear you ask.  

On 23rd Oct, 1991 the bombing of the UNESCO listed old town of Dubrovnik and the shelling finally died down, ending in June 1992. 

At least 43 people lost their lives and the Old Town suffered serious damage, with 68% of the 824 buildings in the old town having been struck by shells.  

The wall sustained 111 direct hits and there were 314 other hits on the buildings and streets within the old town... hence the many new tiles on roofs.

The city is now a place of pleasure, beauty and awe, which includes the ability to walk through the wall at ground level to either enjoy a cool drink or a swim in the clear ocean as ocean liners glide past.

But Dubrovnik is not all about shopping and strolling the streets, its also a destination to enjoy very good Croatian food in any of the many cafes and restaurants like...

One of many small restaurants

or to enjoy a beer...

Now that's a beer!

We also went exploring outside of the city and visited a few small surrounding towns with their own gorgeous views and sights.

But our time in Dubrovnik had come to end as we enjoyed our final sunset and it was time to visit and experience more of the world on this long trip... so till next time, go well!