The Sponza Palace is one of the most beautiful palaces in the city. During the era of the Republic of Dubrovnik it housed the Customs Office, the State Mint, the Bank, the State Treasury and the Armoury.
The structure is rectangular in shape and encloses a yard. The building blends Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Sponza Palace is situated on the north side of Luza SquareThis webpage contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Nowadays, the Sponza houses the Dubrovnik Archive, which boasts one of the richest archive collections in the world, the oldest document preserved in this archive dating from the year 1022.
Today, it is also home to a memorial dedicated to the Croatian War of Independence The exhibit includes portraits of more than 300 defenders and civilians who lost their lives during the siege.
Memorial Room of Dubrovnik defendersBe sure to see if there are any special events taking place in the Sponza Palace courtyard. With its excellent acoustics and elegant architecture, this area frequently hosts concerts, theatrical performances and art exhibitions.
You could spend weeks in Dubrovnik and find something new to do each day. Here is a list of the most popular activities in the city and surroundings.
β Walk the ancient city walls for stunning Adriatic views
β Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town and Stradun street
β Take the cable car up Mount SrΔ for sunset views
β Visit Fort Lovrijenac for Game of Thrones filming locations
β Swim or relax on Lokrum Island
β Enjoy boat trips along the Dalmatian coast
β Old Town β best for history and atmosphere (but expensive)
β PloΔe β great views and close to Old Town
β Lapad β beaches, restaurants, and better value
β Babin Kuk β quieter resort-style area with good transport
β GruΕΎ β best for ferry access, local vibe, and good transport connections
β Old Town is fully pedestrian-only
β Local buses connect beaches and outer districts
β Boats run to nearby islands like Lokrum
β Walking is the best way to explore central areas
β Airport buses connect to the city center
β Cavtat β quiet coastal town near the airport
β Lokrum Island β short boat ride, perfect for swimming
β Mljet National Park β forests, lakes, and nature escapes
β Ston β famous for walls and oysters
β PeljeΕ‘ac Peninsula β wine region and beaches
β Mostar (Bosnia & Herzegovina) β historic bridge and old town
β Elaphite Islands β island hopping by private boat, speedboat tours, or organised tourist boat excursions (Ε ipan, Lopud, KoloΔep)
β Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
β Book city walls tickets in advance during peak season
β Bring water and sun protection in summer
β Expect higher prices inside the Old Town
β Wear comfortable shoesβlots of stairs and stone streets