Dubrovnik Local Custom Tips by karenincalifornia

In the middle ages, it was a town custom to worship a patron saint, who was believed to serve as protector. Dubrovnik selected St. Blasius in 972 A.D during a seige by the Venetians.

Eventually, Venice did gain control of Dubrovnik in 1205 A.D. and ruled the city until 1358, much to the dissatisfaction of the Dubrovnik residents.

Entering the town on the west side, you will walk over the stone bridge and through the Pile Gate. St Blasius stands guard. Once inside the city walls, you’ll have the distinct feeling that you have entered a town in a medieval era.

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Long, long ago, there was a TV show called "Queen For a Day", but actually Sixteenth century Dubrovnik was the precursor with "Rector for a Month".

Only noblemen were eligible to serve in government. Townsmen and commoners were barred. The highest office in the state of Dubrovnik was that of the Rector, whose office lasted only a month, which could have made for interesting government. Term limits must not have existed -- one Dubrovnik poet, Rajina, served as Rector 7 times.

The Rector’s Palace was built in the 15th century and was the seat of government in the Dubrovnik Republic as well as the residence of the Rector.

This made me wonder if the new first lady of the month (Madame Rector) came in and redecorated the Rector's Palace every time the new Rector moved in. Nancy Reagan would have had a hey day (or hey days) if Ronald had served multiple terms as Rector.

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Dubrovnik is proud of its many poets and playrights. The most famous Dubrovnik poets is Ivan F. Gundulic, who died in 1638. A statue of him was erected in one of the main squares honoring his greatness.

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People do actually live within the city walls of Dubrovnik. Residents on the south side (sea side) have the pleasure of tourists walking along the city wall gawking at their backyards and snapping pictures.

As a gawking tourist, I found this backyard very charming – with its covered patio, laundry drying on the line, fruit trees, outdoor brick oven and satellite dish.

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