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Walls of Dubrovnik: A Walk Through History

Explore Dubrovnik's iconic medieval walls: a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views and a journey through history.

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The Walls of Dubrovnik are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved medieval fortification systems in the world. Enclosing the Old Town, these iconic walls offer stunning views and a tangible connection to Dubrovnik's rich history.

A brief summary to Walls of Dubrovnik

  • Poljana Mrtvo Zvono 7, Dubrovnik, 20000, HR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat, especially during summer.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as there is limited shade along the walls.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance or consider the Dubrovnik Pass for access to the walls and other attractions.
  • Walk counterclockwise to follow the designated route and make the most of the views.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to walk the entire circuit of the walls, taking time to explore the towers and enjoy the scenery.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The main entrance to the Walls of Dubrovnik is located near Pile Gate, the primary entrance to the Old Town. From Pile Gate, walk a short distance to the right to find the ticket office and entrance. The walk to the entrance from anywhere in the Old Town is generally short, as the walls encircle the entire area. Note that the Old Town is primarily pedestrianized.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from other parts of Dubrovnik, disembark at the Pile Gate bus stop. From there, it is a short walk to the entrance of the Walls. Bus tickets cost €1.73 if purchased in advance or €2.50 if purchased on the bus. A 24-hour pass is available for €5.31. Alternatively, a Dubrovnik Pass includes bus travel and entrance to the walls.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can drop passengers off near Pile Gate or Ploče Gate, the two main entrances to the Old Town. From either gate, the entrance to the walls is a short walk. A taxi ride from the Port of Dubrovnik to Pile Gate typically costs between €10 and €15. Keep in mind that taxis cannot enter the Old Town itself.

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Discover more about Walls of Dubrovnik

The Walls of Dubrovnik, often called the 'Pearl of the Adriatic,' are a remarkable testament to the city's rich history and strategic importance. Constructed and fortified between the 13th and 17th centuries, these walls served as a crucial defense mechanism, protecting the city from various invaders. Today, they stand as one of the best-preserved medieval fortification systems in the world, drawing visitors from across the globe. The walls run an uninterrupted course of approximately 1,940 meters (6,360 feet), encircling most of the Old Town. Reaching a maximum height of about 25 meters (82 feet), the walls consist of the main city wall, sixteen towers, three fortresses, six bastions, two corner fortifications, three bulwarks, three moats, two flank fortresses, one breakwater, and two drawbridges. The land side of the wall is 4 to 6 meters thick, while the seaside section is 1.5 to 3 meters thick. A walk along the Walls of Dubrovnik offers a unique perspective on the city's layout and architectural beauty. The well-preserved stone provides a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to imagine life within the Republic of Ragusa. Key points of interest along the walls include the Pile Gate, the main entrance to the Old Town, the Minceta Tower, offering panoramic views, and the fortresses of St. John and Bokar. The design of the walls dates back to the 14th century, with the definitive shape fixed between the fall of Constantinople in 1453 and the earthquake of 1667, a period known as the Golden Age of Dubrovnik. Over the centuries, the walls have been continuously upgraded to meet the evolving challenges of warfare, incorporating features such as casemates, cannon embrasures, and thick parapets.

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