Dubrovnik - City of Culture

The Artist City

Dubrovnik has a strong sense of its cultural identity and heritage together with its traditions and customs, idioms and local quirks which endured for centuries and are still alive and well in Dubrovnik of now. Stroll the main street, Stradun and observe - you will see a city that lives for and with culture. During the day there will be school age children and adults alike casually walking about their busyness carrying musical instrument cases, sound of piano practice will splash upon you from random windows of the town and if you reach Ploce Gate you may hear more substantial practice. Yes, this 42000 people town has an philharmonic orchestra, and a theathre in addition to cinemas and various art galleries that showcase local and international artists. Dubrovnik lives with and for culture. It also respects its history and legacy, which can be seen in its impressive examples of architecture, such as the City Walls, the Rector’s Palace, the Sponza Palace and the Cathedral, but these are just the most famous ones. Many small and great pieces of architecture are scattered throughout the town. These buildings reflect Dubrovnik’s past as a maritime republic and a center of trade and diplomacy in the Mediterranean. It's sophisticated and wealthy inhabitants created a city that fosters artistic creativity and diversity. Today, Dubrovnik expresses love and need of culture trough several festivals and hosts many cultural events throughout the year which features theathre, opera, music and dance performances at various open-air venues around the city from mid-July to the end of August. Dubrovnik welcomes visitors from all over the world who come to enjoy its culture, beauty and riches.

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is a cultural event that takes place every year in Dubrovnik, Croatia, from July 10th to August 25th. It was founded in 1950 and is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in Europe. The festival showcases various forms of art, such as theatre, music, dance, film and literature, performed by local and international artists at various historical venues in the city. The festival attracts thousands of visitors who enjoy the rich and diverse program that celebrates Dubrovnik’s heritage and creativity.The festival offers something for everyone, from classical concerts and opera to jazz and folk music, from Shakespearean plays and contemporary drama to ballet and folklore. Some of the highlights of the festival include the opening ceremony at Stradun street, where a large firework display marks the start of the festivities; the performance of Hamlet at Lovrijenac Fortress, where actors use natural scenery as their stage; and the closing ceremony at Revelin Fortress, where a traditional folk dance called Linđo is performed.The festival is still going strong despite some challenges in its history, such as wars, earthquakes and pandemics. It has adapted to changing times and tastes by introducing new genres and formats, such as film screenings, literary evenings and street art. The festival also collaborates with other cultural institutions and festivals around Europe to promote artistic exchange and cooperation.

Dubrovnik Summer Festival

The Dubrovnik Winter Festival is a relatively new event that started in 2014 and has since become one of the main attractions of the city during the winter season. The festival runs from early December to early January and offers a variety of activities, entertainment and gastronomy for locals and visitors alike.The festival aims to reveal a new aspect of Dubrovnik’s beauty and culture by decorating the city with magical lights, Christmas trees, wreaths and ornaments. The historic Old Town becomes a festive stage for concerts, performances, workshops and exhibitions that showcase the artistic talent and diversity of Dubrovnik. The main street of Stradun is lined with wooden chalets that sell traditional food, drinks and souvenirs. Some of the highlights of the festival include:The opening ceremony on December 2nd, which features a spectacular fireworks display and a concert by famous Croatian singers.The Advent in the City program, which organizes daily events such as live music, dance shows, children’s plays, choirs and brass bands at various locations in the Old Town.The ice skating rink at Gundulić Square, which is open every day from 9 am to 10 pm and offers fun for all ages.The Christmas Tale at Luža Square, which invites children to meet Santa Claus and his elves on December 6th.The New Year’s Eve celebration on Stradun, which attracts thousands of people who enjoy live music by local and international stars until midnight.The New Year’s Day concert on Stradun by the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra at noon.The Dubrovnik Winter Festival is a great opportunity to experience Dubrovnik in a different way and to enjoy its festive atmosphere. It is also a chance to discover some of the ancient customs and traditions that have been preserved by the people of Dubrovnik for centuries

Dubrovnik Winter Festival

Summer Music Festival

Summer Music Festival Dubrovnik is a cultural event that celebrates Dubrovnik’s heritage and arts. It is held every year from July 10 to August 25 in various historical venues around the city. The festival was founded in 1950 by a group of artists who wanted to revive Dubrovnik’s cultural life after World War II. Since then, it has become one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in Europe, featuring local and international performers of theatre, music and dance. The festival offers a diverse program of classical and folk genres, as well as contemporary works and premieres. It attracts thousands of visitors who enjoy the unique atmosphere and quality of the performances.The festival is held in various historical venues around the city, such as churches, palaces, fortresses and squares. Some of the most famous venues are the Rector’s Palace Atrium, the Sponza Palace Atrium, the Lovrijenac Fortress and the Revelin Fortress Terrace. The festival also uses unconventional spaces such as gardens, rooftops and boats. The festival aims to create a harmony between the artistic expression and the historical setting.The festival also contributes to the preservation and promotion of Dubrovnik’s cultural heritage, which is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The festival showcases Dubrovnik’s rich history, architecture and traditions through its performances. The festival also supports young artists and encourages cultural exchange among different countries.