Timeless Charm of Old Town Dubrovnik

• HelloBok
  [Bohk]
• GoodbyeDoviđenja
  [Doh-vee-jen-ya]
• YesDa
  [Dah]
• NoNe
  [Neh]
• Please/You're welcomeMolim
  [Moh-leem]
• Thank youHvala
  [Hvah-lah]
• Excuse me/SorryOprosti
  [Oh-pros-tee]
• How are you?Kako si?
  [Kah-koh see]
• Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
  [Doh-bro. Ah tee]
• Do you speak English?Govorite li engleski?
  [Goh-voh-ree-teh lee ehng-lehs-kee]
• I don't understandNe razumijem
  [Neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMogu li vidjeti jelovnik, molim?
  [Moh-goo lee vee-dyeh-tee yeh-lohv-neek, moh-leem]
• I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
  [Neh yeh-dem meh-so]
• Cheers!Živjeli!
  [Zhee-vee-lee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseŽelim platiti, molim
  [Zheh-leem plah-tee-tee, moh-leem]

• Help!Pomoć!
  [Poh-mohch]
• Go away!Idi dalje!
  [Ee-dee dah-l-yeh]
• Call the Police!Pozovite policiju!
  [Poh-zoh-vee-teh poh-lee-tsee-yoo]
• Call a doctor!Pozovite doktora!
  [Poh-zoh-vee-teh d-o-ktoh-rah]
• I'm lostIzgubljen sam
  [Eez-goob-lyen sahm]
• I'm illBolesan sam
  [Boh-leh-sahn sahm]

• I'd like to buy...Želim kupiti...
  [Zheh-leem koo-pee-tee]
• I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [Sah-moh gleh-dahm]
• How much is it?Koliko košta?
  [Koh-lee-koh koh-shta]
• That's too expensiveTo je prekupo
  [Toh yeh preh-koo-poh]
• Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cijenu?
  [Moh-zheh-teh lee spoos-tee-tee tsee-yeh-noo]

• What time is it?Koliko je sati?
  [Koh-lee-koh yeh sah-tee]
• It's one o'clockJedan je sat
  [Yeh-dahn yeh saht]
• Half past (10)Pola (deset)
  [Poh-lah (deh-set)]
• MorningJutro
  [Yoo-troh]
• AfternoonPopodne
  [Poh-pohd-neh]
• EveningVečer
  [Veh-chehr]
• YesterdayJučer
  [Yoo-chehr]
• TodayDanas
  [Dah-nahs]
• TomorrowSutra
  [Soo-trah]
• 1Jedan
  [Yeh-dahn]
• 2Dva
  [Dvah]
• 3Tri
  [Tree]
• 4Četiri
  [Cheh-tee-ree]
• 5Pet
  [Peh-t]
• 6Šest
  [Shehst]
• 7Sedam
  [Seh-dahm]
• 8Osam
  [Oh-sahm]
• 9Devet
  [Deh-vet]
• 10Deset
  [Deh-set]

• Where's a/the...?Gdje je...
  [Gdyeh yeh]
• What's the address?Koja je adresa?
  [Koh-yah yeh ah-dreh-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na karti)?
  [Moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-kah-zah-tee (nah kahr-tee)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kada je sljedeći (autobus)?
  [Kah-dah yeh sleh-deh-chee (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Jedna karta (za ....)
  [Yeh-dnah kar-tah (zah)]

Dubrovnik, known as Ragusa in Latin, was established as a settlement in the 7th century. Its strategic location along maritime trade routes enabled it to flourish as an independent city-state. By the 14th century, Dubrovnik developed a unique political system, establishing the Republic of Ragusa, which thrived on trade and diplomacy, becoming a prominent player in the Mediterranean.

From the 12th to the 17th centuries, Dubrovnik fortified its defenses with massive stone walls, reaching their peak during the late 15th century. These walls, some of the best-preserved in Europe, were built to protect the city from invasions, particularly during the Ottoman expansion. The fortifications include the iconic Pile Gate and the imposing Minceta Fortress, reflecting the city's commitment to its independence and security.

The Black Death struck Dubrovnik in 1348, decimating the population. In response, the city implemented strict quarantine measures, establishing the first known quarantine station on the nearby island of Lokrum. This proactive approach not only saved lives but also laid the groundwork for a resilient recovery, allowing Dubrovnik to regain its status as a thriving trade center.

The 15th and 16th centuries marked a golden age for Dubrovnik, as it became a hub of art, literature, and architecture. Influences from the Italian Renaissance permeated the city, leading to the construction of stunning structures such as the Sponza Palace and the Rector's Palace. This period also saw the establishment of the Dubrovnik Republic's law code, emphasizing civic responsibility and cultural pride.

On April 6, 1667, a catastrophic earthquake struck Dubrovnik, destroying a significant portion of the city and claiming thousands of lives. The reconstruction that followed saw the blending of Baroque architectural styles with the existing Gothic and Renaissance elements, resulting in the city's current architectural character. Landmarks such as the Church of St. Blaise and the Cathedral of the Assumption were rebuilt during this era.

In the early 19th century, Dubrovnik fell under the rule of Napoleon, who integrated it into the French Empire. Following his defeat, the Congress of Vienna in 1815 placed Dubrovnik under Austro-Hungarian rule, which lasted until World War I. This period brought significant changes in governance and infrastructure, enhancing the city's status as a cultural and administrative center in the region.

The Yugoslav Wars in the early 1990s had a profound impact on Dubrovnik, with the city suffering from shelling in 1991. The damage to its historical structures was extensive, prompting a significant international effort for restoration. By the late 1990s, Dubrovnik was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its cultural significance and the importance of preserving its rich history.

Old Town Dubrovnik is easily accessible from various neighborhoods within the city. The main entry point is through the Pile Gate, which is well-connected by local buses. The local bus number 1A and 1B frequently runs from the main bus station and other neighborhoods, including Lapad and Gruz. For visitors arriving at Dubrovnik Airport, shuttle services and taxis are available to transport you directly to the Old Town, typically taking about 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Old Town is a pedestrian-only zone, making it easy to explore on foot. The narrow cobbled streets are best navigated by walking. There are no trains or buses within the Old Town; however, the local bus system connects to nearby areas. Bicycles can be rented outside the Old Town, but cycling inside is not permitted. For those with mobility issues, be aware that the terrain is uneven and can be challenging.

Old Town Dubrovnik is generally very safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in crowded areas like Stradun and near popular attractions. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and always trust your instincts.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. There are hospitals and clinics in and around Dubrovnik, with the nearest emergency room located in the city center. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies. For non-urgent issues, pharmacies are available throughout Old Town.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like the Cathedral of the Assumption. Don't wear revealing clothing in these areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, including quiet behavior in churches. Don't take photos in churches without permission. Public Transport: Do be courteous on local buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day). Don't assume everyone speaks English; a few Croatian phrases can go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy outdoor dining. Don't engage in loud behavior in restaurants; it is considered impolite.

To experience Old Town like a local, visit the local markets early in the morning for fresh produce and authentic Croatian products. Take a stroll through the less crowded side streets to discover charming cafes and shops. Engage with locals who are often happy to share stories about their city. Additionally, consider visiting the city walls at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views without the crowds. Don't forget to sample local wines and traditional dishes like 'peka' at family-owned restaurants for an authentic dining experience.