The Franciscan Monastery (Dubrovnik)

The Franciscan Monastery is one of Dubrovnik’s most popular historic landmarks and has been a feature of the city skyline since the early 14th century. It has survived earthquake and war, most recently during Serbian bombings in 1991 and its heavily fortified Romanesque-Gothic design is testament to its longevity. It is situated at the start of the Stradum, Dubrovnik’s most historic thoroughfare and its sheer size seems to dominate the whole street. Short breaks in Dubrovnik cannot help but be enchanted by its fabulous architecture. The cloister is among the most enchanting in Europe, featuring a colonnade of exuberant stone carvings including grotesque beasts, floral motifs and biblical figures.

 

Housed within the grounds is the St Francis Church with its delightful 15th century marble pulpit and bell tower. Passing through the cloisters, you will come to the Stara Ljekarna Pharmacy, reputed to be the oldest still functioning pharmacy in Europe. On cheap city breaks in Dubrovnik, you can browse a sizeable collection of ancient laboratory instruments, medical paraphernalia and brightly coloured jars and it has a timeless atmosphere of a bygone age. Bookworms will relish exploring the monastery’s famous library which boasts over 30,000 ancient manuscripts, handwritten documents and books.

 

In addition, there are numerous liturgical and art relics displayed in a large renaissance hall which includes an 18th century crucifix from Jerusalem, gold trinkets and old masters. Weekend breaks in Dubrovnik will savour the hushed tranquillity of its solemn interior which has a charming quadrangle filled with colourful blooms; the perfect spot to contemplate its long and illustrious history. It is punctuated with commanding statues of figures such John the Baptist and Dubrovnik’s very own patron Saint St Blaise. It certainly makes for an inspiring place to while away an hour or so and seems to be a million miles away from everyday modern life.