St Blaise Church (Dubrovnik)

Named in honour of Dubrovnik’s revered patron saint, this is the most prominent church in the city and considered more visually fetching than even the cathedral. Located to the east of the Stradun, it has an eye catching exterior facade with gleaming white stucco walls and delicate baroque ornamentation, which include a number of graceful statues and friezes. On cheap city breaks in Dubrovnik, you will find an attractive interior bathed in natural sunlight courtesy of huge stained glass windows which are a surprising new addition, installed in the 1970’s. Taking pride of place is a stunning silver and gold plated statue of St Blaise which actually predates the church by over 200 years.  

 

Its two altars are decorated with 19th century paintings of St Blaise and the Madonna, elaborate crucifixes and porcelain ornaments. On the church walls hang a collection of earlier baroque painting by several Italian artists overlooked by a series of imposing stone sculptures dating back to the 16th century. Short breaks in Dubrovnik can learn a little of the magic of St Blaise, who is still held in high esteem by people from all walks of life. There is a small exhibition explaining the myths and legend behind the city’s patron saint, along with a collection of relics from as early as the 11th century.

 

The cult of St Blaise is very much evident in modern times and every year the whole city celebrates the feast day with unbridled enthusiasm. St Blaise Church is at the heart of all the action which takes place every February 3rd and involves a series of choral and classical concerts, theatre performers, a solemn street procession and the ritual releasing of white doves. Winter city breaks in Dubrovnik will witness a unique feast day that has origins dating back over 1,000 years.