Dubrovnik Legends: St Blaise
The Festivity of St Blaise is the most important event for the city of Dubrovnik and its residents. It is a day of celebration and appreciation of the patron saint who, according to legend, appeared during the invasion of the Venetians and helped the folk of Dubrovnik defend their city. The festivity includes a series of events, the most prominent of which is a procession carrying the relics of St Blaise through the city while the people touch them with reverence. The Festivity of St Blaise was pronounced intangible world heritage by UNESCO, which, together with the city walls, has put Dubrovnik on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
More about the legend
In 972, the Venetian fleet entered the waters of Dubrovnik and, despite their friendly manner, intended to conquer Dubrovnik by deception. The folk of Dubrovnik received help from a grey-haired old man carrying a staff in his hand who was sent from the heavens to warn them and defend the city. Since then, St Blaise has been the patron saint of Dubrovnik and the theme of many cultural monuments, artworks and pieces of literature.
A holiday for all residents
Since the very first celebrations of St Blaise, the residents of Dubrovnik and the surrounding area have meticulously prepared for this unique event. All the residents would take part in the festivities, in the centre of the city or in their own homes. The Republic of Ragusa introduced the “Freedom of St Blaise”, a period in which offenders had the right to visit the city two days before the festivity and two days after it without being questioned. The festivity included numerous traditional events, prayers and processions, some of which take place even today, featuring certain adjustments for the modern age.
The Trombunjeri of Dubrovnik
A procession led by trombunjeri carrying short, broad rifles called trombuni is a distinctiveguished event of the St Blaise festivity. The festivity commences by firing gun salutes at the western entrance to the city, since the trombunjeri never fire their rifles inside the city walls. Thise traditional military unit consists of honoured citizens, who are very proud to be a part of this unique event. Their special garments and the traditional costumes of the Dubrovnik region spark the interest of many scholars of culture and enthusiasts from all over the world.
After the mass and procession, St Blaise’s banner is taken down from Orlando’s Column, which signifies the end of the festivity. This unique event symbolises the end of the festive season that lasts from Christmas. It is the time when all the Christmas street decorations are taken down. The residents of Dubrovnik traditionally look forward to and prepare for this festivity, and hotels in Dubrovnik welcome guests who come from far and wide to participate in the celebration. The special ambience and the spirit of the city are a unique invitation to all those looking for a break at this time of year.
Book accommodation in one of Maistra’s hotels, villas or apartments in the Dubrovnik Riviera and become part of this incredible story. The amazing choice of things to see and do will provide countless opportunities for memorable experiences. A visit to Dubrovnik is always a source of breathtaking experiences and wonderful memories.
Hotels in Mlini and Srebreno for a comfortable stay
The Hotel Mlini and the Hotel Astarea are situated in the charming village of Mlini near Dubrovnik, where you can book a comfortable stay with a diverse gastronomic and spa and wellness offer. The Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera Hotel is a unique spa oasis where you can relax to the full after sightseeing in Dubrovnik. By booking your stay at our hotels on the Dubrovnik Riviera, you are choosing a unique natural ambience where you can relax regardless of the season. No matter whether you’re spending your holiday alone, or with your family or friends, these hotels offer everything you might need.
Hotels in Dubrovnik
Situated in a one-of-a-kind location in a quiet bay in the small town of Mlini, a mere 10 kilometres from Dubrovnik, Hotel Astarea offers everything you need for a relaxing holiday. Every room offers either a captivating sea view or a picturesque vista of the lush Mediterranean greenery. The freshwater pools, suitable for both children and adults, offer complimentary loungers with sweeping views of the expansive bay. And with the beautiful natural beach right next to the hotel, choosing how to spend your day becomes a delightful dilemma.
Hotel Mlini is located just above the beach and promenade, allowing you to enjoy the enchanting view of the sea throughout your stay. The Hotel, located in the heart of the town of Mlini, is an oasis of peace and relaxation in an ideal location near Dubrovnik. Directly on the beach, you will find the bistro and restaurant Oleander for culinary adventures while enjoying the beautiful view of the sea and islands.
You Might Also Like
Visit Golden Cape forest park.
Also known as Punta Corrente, the Golden Cape is one of the most significant nature parks in the northeast Adriatic.
Only a 15-minute walk from the centre of Rovinj and spreading over an area of 52 hectares, the forest park hides a world of unbelievable diversity, numerous plant species and deep shade that provides cool shelter during the long summer days.
Dubrovnik’s city walls are considered one of the largest and best-preserved medieval fortification systems.
The city walls of Dubrovnik that surround the old city centre were built as a defence system. Today, they are one of the most popular attractions in Dubrovnik, as well as the best-known Dubrovnik monument protected by UNESCO.
