The Pearl of the Adriatic: The Old City of Dubrovnik: UNESCO Culture Sector

A war to fight for independence from Yugoslavia broke out in 1991 and many of the historical buildings were destroyed. Cultural Heritage properties were targeted and Dubrovnik was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage in Danger List. People began restoring their city as soon as peace returned, notably the Statue of St. Lawrence, the symbol of the city’s freedom and self-governance. Restoration work involved consulting ancient manuscripts; the same construction materials and original design were used.

Local artisans began by making tools of the period. The citizens of the city voluntarily took part in the reconstruction of Dubrovnik under the guidance of experts. They worked tirelessly to produce roof tiles of the same colour and shape as the original in their effort to be unsubscribed from the World Heritage in Danger List. As a result, the city regained its beauty. In 1998, seven years after the war, the city of Dubrovnik was, at last, taken off the World Heritage in Danger List.

True to its name, the Pearl of the Adriatic, the city of Dubrovnik has overcome much strife and many wars. It continues to attract people from all over the world.