The Walls of Dubrovnik (Dubrovačke gradske zidine) are defensive ramparts that encircle much of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Marvel at this intricate system of armory emplacements, bastions, castles and gateways built during the Middle Ages. The walls stretch for almost 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) and range from 5 to 20 feet (1.5 to 6 meters) in thickness. In popular culture, the setting has been used as a filming location for the television series Game of Thrones.
There are three gateways to the walls. On the west side is Pile Gate, which has a triumphal arch and drawbridge. In the northeast corner is Ploce Gate and in the center of the northern wall is Buža Gate. As you walk, note the contrast of the antique and new terracotta roofs of the Old Town. The newer roofs were replaced following severe bomb damage during Croatia’s war for independence in the 1990s.
Climb to the top of Minčeta Tower, the highest point of the walls, for superb views over the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. Walk east from the tower and down a sloping path to Revelin Fortress, built in the 15th century to ward off attacks by the Turks. From here the wall travels south and above the old port. Learn about Adriatic plants and animals at Dubrovnik Aquarium, set inside St. John’s Fortress.
Don’t miss the circular-shaped Fort Bokar, which guards the walls’ southern section. St. Lawrence Fortress sits on a headland in the southwesterly corner. Its courtyard is a major venue for performing arts events during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival.
Drop down into the Old Town to discover a maze of streets lined with grand churches, monasteries, palaces and plazas. Be sure to visit the Church of St. Blaise, Dubrovnik Cathedral and Dominican Monastery. Browse thought-provoking displays of war-related photography at War Photo Limited. Relax at artsy coffeehouses during the daytime and go bar-hopping after dark.
The Walls of Dubrovnik are open daily and there is an admission fee. Allow about 90 minutes to walk around the walls.
