Photo Story: 8 great views along the Dubrovnik Old City Walls
According to Wikipedia, the Walls of Dubrovnik are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the citizens of Dubrovnik (Ragusa as it was named back then) since the city’s founding prior to the 7th century. With numerous additions and modifications throughout their history, the old city walls have been considered to be one of the great fortification systems of the Middle Ages, as they were never breached by a hostile army during this time period.
Today’s intact city walls, constructed mainly during the 12th–17th centuries, have long been a source of pride for Dubrovnik. The walls run an uninterrupted course of approximately 1,940m in length, encircling most of the old city, and reach a maximum height of about 25m. The bulk of the existing walls and fortifications were constructed during the 14th and 15th centuries, but were continually extended and strengthened up until the 17th century.
Now that you’ve got a glimpse of the history behind the Old City, here are 8 great views along the Dubrovnik Old City Walls.
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1. Rows of houses along the hilly land
The start of the walk at the entrance of Pile Gate brings you to the first view – a series of homes in signature brown rooftops. From a height of approximately 20m, a 360 deg view of brown houses surrounds you. Surrounded by tall trees, they resemble vacation homes of the rich and famous.
2. The sturdy fort walls
These fort walls have never been breached and it’s quite clear why. Made of solid rock, these structures held fast against the forces of nature and the onslaught of humans.
3. The gorgeous Adriatic Sea
To me, the Adriatic Sea is the stuff of Enid Blyton tales – of when the kids go on boat trips to islands and solve mysteries. I can always remember how Enid Blyton described the surroundings. The bright blue sky without a single cloud in view, the deep blue sea which sparkled at every crest of the waves – that’s the Adriatic Sea for you.
4. Cliff-dining: a simple dive and you’re in the Adriatic Sea
Food and drink probably costs a lot more at that restaurant, but I guess it’s pretty worth it if you intend to take a dive into the sea as well. To me, the view from the high city walls were much better, as compared to the ones on the cliff.
5. Courageous cats lazing on ledges
I found the cats to be rather courageous. An afternoon nap could turn disastrous, if they were to flip on their side. Nonetheless, cats do not have the tendency of moving in their sleep and with their literary reputation of nine lives, lazing on ledges shouldn’t be an issue.
6. The Croatian flag in full bloom
Around the fort, you will see Croatian flags fluttering in the breeze. It’s quite a sight, a sign of victory especially when you think of Dubrovnik’s reputation as an unbreakable fortress. Here’s a picture of the flag in full bloom.
7. The perfect balance of fort and sea.
Minus the glare, this was a rather nice photo in my opinion.
8. A self-portrait is always nice
Last but not least, remember to take a self-portrait when you’re there. It’s one of those backgrounds which you absolutely have to be in the photo frame.
Hope you enjoyed the series of posts on Dubrovnik’s Old City. Stay tune for reviews of restaurants at the Old City!
