1. Dubrovnik was one of the first to abolish slavery
Many people may not know that Dubrovnik was ahead of its time when it came to human rights. In 1416, the Republic of Ragusa (as Dubrovnik was known then) became one of the first states in Europe to abolish slavery. This was almost 450 years before the abolition in the United States, reflecting the progressive mindset of the city’s rulers at the time.

2. The city’s walls were never breached
Dubrovnik’s massive city walls are one of its most famous features. While they may seem like they were built for war, these walls were so effective that they were never breached by enemy forces. This remarkable feat was partly due to the city’s strategic diplomacy and skilled defense tactics, which kept enemies at bay for centuries.

3. Dubrovnik had its own medical service as early as the 14th century
Dubrovnik was also forward-thinking when it came to healthcare. In 1377, the city established the world’s first quarantine hospital (lazarettos) on the island of Mrkan, near Cavtat. This was to prevent the spread of plague and other infectious diseases, showcasing Dubrovnik’s dedication to public health. Additionally, the Franciscan Monastery still houses one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, operating since 1317.

4. A republic built on diplomacy
Unlike many other European powers, the Republic of Ragusa relied on diplomacy and trade to maintain its independence. It carefully navigated complex political waters, making agreements with both the Ottoman Empire and the Venetian Republic. This diplomatic prowess allowed Dubrovnik to prosper and remain independent for centuries while other cities fell under foreign rule.

5. The city’s wealth came from salt
While today Dubrovnik is known for its tourism, its wealth during the medieval period primarily came from the salt trade. The city controlled salt production in the nearby Ston Salt Works, one of the oldest salt plants in Europe. Salt was incredibly valuable at the time, and Dubrovnik’s monopoly on salt production and trade contributed significantly to its prosperity.

6. Dubrovnik was almost entirely destroyed in an earthquake
In 1667, Dubrovnik experienced one of the most catastrophic earthquakes in its history. The quake devastated much of the city, killing thousands and destroying many buildings. Despite this tragedy, the resilient city was quickly rebuilt in the Baroque style, and this rebuilding effort is what gives much of the Old Town its current architectural charm.

7. The rector was imprisoned every night
During the times of the Republic of Ragusa, the city was governed by a Rector who was elected for a term of just one month. This short tenure was designed to prevent any single person from gaining too much power. Interestingly, each night during their term, the Rector was “imprisoned” in the Rector’s Palace, where they had to remain under strict surveillance, ensuring they did not engage in any corrupt activities or secret dealings.

8. The Old Town has an ancient water supply system
Dubrovnik’s Old Town features one of the oldest public water systems in Europe. Built in the 15th century, the Onofrio’s Fountain and its connected aqueduct system supplied the city with fresh water from the Šumet River, which was located 12 kilometers away. The fountain, with its 16 carved masks, still stands proudly at the entrance of the Old Town today and continues to provide fresh drinking water.

9. Dubrovnik had a flourishing printing industry
Not many people know that Dubrovnik was a hub for literature and printing during the Renaissance period. The city’s first printing press was established in 1770, and Dubrovnik quickly became known for its literary culture, producing works by famous poets and playwrights like Marin Držić, often referred to as the Croatian Shakespeare.