What Game of Thrones got right about Dubrovnik
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’re used to a bit of controversy. Absolutely no one loved the series finale; in fact, most of us would like to pretend the final season did not happen. The one commonality amongst GOT fans is watching the jaw-dropping panorama of the fictional city King’s Landing and thinking, “I have got to go to Croatia.”
You can choose between the Istrian or Dalmatian Coast when planning your Croatia itinerary. Cruise the Adriatic or immerse yourself in a country chock full of creative and athletic prowess with active travel. Taste-test Croatian food in farm-to-table experiences, and see sparkling little towns with wineries, lavender fields, and salt flats.
But one thing is unarguable: you must visit the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik. A stroll on the city walls at sunset will melt the hardest heart. But aside from its surreal beauty, there are a few other reasons Dubrovnik should be on your bucket list.
10 fascinating facts about Dubrovnik
It holds the world’s first commercial pharmacy, which opened in 1317 and is still open inside the city.
It was the first country to ban slavery in 1416.
It opened the world’s first orphanage in 1432.
It has a medieval sewer system dating back to 1296, which is still used today.
In 1377, Dubrovnik was the first country to institute a quarantine to protect its citizens.
In the 16th century, it had one of the most substantial naval fleets in the Mediterranean Sea, with 40,000 sailors and 180 large ships.
Using trade, Dubrovnik successfully navigated as an independent republic between the Kingdom of Venice and the Ottoman Empire.
Convicted criminals could be severe
Dubrovnik’s history is of innovation and diplomacy. The city protected its citizens, including all ethnicities and religions, and piloted unique tolerance and social programs initiatives. When you visit Dubrovnik, you will instantly be attracted to its beauty, but you will fall in love with its soul.