The Stradun

Stretching for about 300 metres , the full width of Dubrovnik, the Stradun is almost impossible to miss when exploring the city. And really, why would you want to? This lively thoroughfare is the main street of the Old Town. Back in the 12th century, it linked the two former settlements of Slavic Dubrava and Ragusa, once separated by marshland. To make crossing this muddy stretch easier, the street was paved as early as 1468. Like much of Dubrovnik, the Stradun suffered heavy damage in the devastating earthquake of 1667. Most of the rows of buildings along it were destroyed, which is why the houses rebuilt in the 17th century on either side are so uniform in size and style. At each end, you’ll find Onofrio’s two fountains: the large, richly decorated one and the smaller Renaissance-inspired one, both still providing fresh drinking water today. The Stradun also takes centre stage during major events: every 3 February, it hosts the procession for the Feast of Saint Blaise, the city’s patron saint, celebrated since the 10th century and recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. And for Game of Thrones fans, it’s impossible to forget that this was the setting for Cersei Lannister’s infamous “Walk of Shame.”