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Sponza Palace: A Testament to Dubrovnik's Enduring Spirit

Explore Dubrovnik's Sponza Palace: a stunning blend of Gothic-Renaissance architecture, housing centuries of history and cultural treasures.

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The Sponza Palace, a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, stands as a symbol of Dubrovnik's rich history and resilience. Built in the early 16th century, it has served as a customs house, mint, treasury, and cultural hub, surviving earthquakes and wars to house the city's archives and a memorial to its defenders.

A brief summary to Sponza Palace

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Take time to admire the intricate details of the palace's architecture, including the Renaissance portico and Gothic windows.
  • Explore the Dubrovnik State Archives within the palace to discover historical documents dating back to the 12th century.
  • Pay your respects at the Memorial Room of the Defenders of Dubrovnik, a moving tribute to the city's heroes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Sponza Palace is located in the heart of Dubrovnik's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the city walls. From Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town, walk straight ahead along Stradun (also known as Placa), the main street. Sponza Palace will be on your left at the end of Stradun, near Luža Square and the Orlando Column. There are no costs associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus to Dubrovnik's main bus station, take bus lines 1A, 1B, 3, or 8 to Pile Gate. From Pile Gate, follow the walking directions along Stradun to reach Sponza Palace. A single bus fare costs €1.73 if purchased in advance at a newsstand or Libertas kiosk, or €2.50 if purchased from the driver.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Dubrovnik. A taxi from the main bus station or Gruž port to Pile Gate, the entrance to the Old Town, typically costs between €30 and €40. Ride-sharing services may offer slightly lower fares. From Pile Gate, walk along Stradun to reach Sponza Palace. Note that the Old Town is a car-free zone, so taxis can only drop you off at the perimeter.

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Discover more about Sponza Palace

Located at the end of Stradun, Dubrovnik's main street, the Sponza Palace, also known as Divona, is a remarkable building that has retained its original form since its construction between 1516 and 1522. Designed by Paskoje Miličević Mihov, the palace is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, showcasing the architectural harmony of the era. The Andrijić brothers crafted the loggia and sculptures, adding to the palace's artistic value. Originally built as a customs house, the Sponza Palace has played many roles throughout its history. It has functioned as a mint, armory, treasury, bank, and even a school. The palace's inscription, "Fallere nostra vetant et falli pondera. Meque pondero cum merces ponderat ipse deus," reflects its role in ensuring fair trade. The inscription translates to “Our weights do not permit cheating. When I measure goods, God measures with me”. One of the few buildings to survive the devastating 1667 earthquake, the Sponza Palace stands as a testament to Dubrovnik's enduring spirit. Today, it houses the Dubrovnik State Archives, which contain a wealth of historical documents dating back to the 12th century. The palace also features the Memorial Room of the Defenders of Dubrovnik, a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives during the Croatian War of Independence. The atrium of the Palace is often used for exhibitions and special events, especially during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

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