The fortress walls of Dubrovnik's old town are truely spectacular. The experience and views make it well worth walking them
History
Overlooking the sea and punctuated by towers, the monumental walls that encircle Dubrovnik that are undoubtedly the city's most famous feature. The oldest system of fortifications around the town were probably wooden palisades but that is merely speculation.
What is certain is that a fortification system was already being built in the 12th century. The bulk of the existing walls and fortifications was constructed during the 14th and 15th centuries
but they were continually extended and strengthened up to and including the 17th century.
Overlooking the sea and punctuated by towers, the monumental walls that encircle Dubrovnik that are undoubtedly the city's most famous feature. The oldest system of fortifications around the town were probably wooden palisades but that is merely speculation.
What is certain is that a fortification system was already being built in the 12th century. The bulk of the existing walls and fortifications was constructed during the 14th and 15th centuries
but they were continually extended and strengthened up to and including the 17th century.
Fortresses
There are several fortresses along the way: the Minceta Tower, Fort Bokar and St John's Fortress providing dramatic views of the Old Town of Dubrovnik - with its terracotta rooftops and elegant bell towers.
There are several fortresses along the way: the Minceta Tower, Fort Bokar and St John's Fortress providing dramatic views of the Old Town of Dubrovnik - with its terracotta rooftops and elegant bell towers.
Walking the walls
The views out over the old town, the Adriatic Sea and south to Cavtat are spectacular. So don't forget to include your camera when preparing for your walk.
Running for an uninterrupted 1940 meters, you’ll need to set aside two to three hours to really do them justice (and don't forget your sunscreen). There are a few food stalls along the way where you can buy a drink or ice-cream otherwise just take your time to absorb the beauty around you.
For a small fee, take the audio guide at the Pile Gate entrance to the wall. It is excellent value and full of interesting information and history that will be hard to get any other way.
We enjoy walking the walls in the late afternoon when the heat of the day has abated. The light is also wonderful for those special photos.
The views out over the old town, the Adriatic Sea and south to Cavtat are spectacular. So don't forget to include your camera when preparing for your walk.
Running for an uninterrupted 1940 meters, you’ll need to set aside two to three hours to really do them justice (and don't forget your sunscreen). There are a few food stalls along the way where you can buy a drink or ice-cream otherwise just take your time to absorb the beauty around you.
For a small fee, take the audio guide at the Pile Gate entrance to the wall. It is excellent value and full of interesting information and history that will be hard to get any other way.
We enjoy walking the walls in the late afternoon when the heat of the day has abated. The light is also wonderful for those special photos.
