Dubrovnik Cathedral

Overview

The Cathedral of the Assumption dominates the southeast corner of the Old Town, built in Baroque style after the 1667 earthquake destroyed its Romanesque predecessor. Its treasury holds relics including what is claimed to be a fragment of the True Cross.

Highlights

• Titian's polyptych: 'The Assumption of the Virgin' (attributed) on the main altar.
• Treasury: Gold and silver reliquaries including the skull of St. Blaise, Dubrovnik's patron saint.
• Baroque facade: A restrained elegance typical of post-earthquake reconstruction.

History

The original Romanesque cathedral (funded, legend says, by Richard the Lionheart after surviving a shipwreck nearby) was destroyed in the 1667 earthquake. The current Baroque church was completed by 1713.

Visitor Tips

• Free entry: Church is free; treasury €3.
• Feast of St. Blaise: 3 February—Dubrovnik's most important celebration.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.