Orthodox Church of the Annunciation — Attraction in Dubrovnik

In the landscape of religious monuments in Dubrovnik, almost exclusively Catholic, an Orthodox stain is brought by the Serbian Church of the Holy Annunciation. The medieval period of the fortress-town Dubrovnik, as the center of the tiny but breathtaking Ragusa maritime Republic (1358-1808), was marked by the prohibition of non-Catholics (Orthodoxes, Muslims ...) sleeping in the city or erecting places of worship. (It is possible, according to the legend, that St. Francis of Assisi himself, in the 13th century, would have recommended this to the Republic of Venice, Dubrovnik being up to 1358 under Venetian rule). In this context, if the roots of the great Catholic places of worship in Dubrovnik go down in history until the 7th century, the Orthodox Church is much closer to our times and was not marked by the terrible earthquake of 1667 that destroyed most of the town. However, the church was severely affected during the Homeland War (1991-1992), but was restored in 2009 (government, regional, local, private donations) and brought back to its original state as we see it now. It was built from 1865 (1867?) for the Slavic Orthodox community (which numbered 300 people?) and consecrated in 1877 with the dedication of the Holy Annunciation. The church is located in the heart of the fortress-town, in the area of ​​the narrow street maze, and the limited space available probably influenced the layout and shape of the building built in the Neo-Byzantine style (architect Marina Groppelia). In the corners of the facade two octagonal bell-towers are noted. The pronaos (narthex), separated by the nave by two columns, is preceded by a small porch (the entrance to the church). The altar, according to the Orthodox customs, is separated from the nave by a golden iconostasis (catapeteasm) which attracts visitors' sight. Above the iconostasis is a large magnificent mural painting of "The Last Supper". Instead of the lateral apses there are two large and beautiful paintings, namely the Baptism of the Lord (left) and the Holy Annunciation (right). On the left (west) side of the church is a reliquary. The Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church is also known thanks to a valuable collection of old icons from the 15th-19th centuries and other church objects, including liturgical books from the 17th-19th centuries, all organized in a museum in a neighboring building. Also, the church has a valuable library with about...

I initially noticed the Church of the Annunciation whilst on a walking tour of the city, but was almost entirely distracted by the array of stray cats that appear to have made their home in its immediate vicinity. On my return visit, I ensured that I was copiously armed with cat treats, but found that I was swiftly admonished by a church official when I attempted to feed them within the small courtyard! Thankfully, just a few moments later, all of the cats leapt down into the adjacent thoroughfare as a wonderful elderly lady appeared with a bag full of cat supplies ... including wet food and fresh water ... They are clearly loved here, at least by some! 😺The church itself is well worth a few minutes of contemplation, replete with sacred icons, as one would expect. There is a particularly striking painting of the Annunciation, to the right hand side of the iconostasis, which shows a female archangel informing Mary that she is to become the most important woman in history. Mural of Last Supper above the screen, Judas, of course, seen with his back...

The Orthodox Church in Dubrovnik is a tranquil oasis amidst the city's bustling energy. Its understated exterior belies the rich history and spiritual significance within. The interior is a serene space adorned with icons and religious artifacts that offer a glimpse into Orthodox traditions. While smaller in scale compared to some of Dubrovnik's more prominent churches, it exudes a charm and authenticity that is truly captivating. A visit here provides a unique opportunity to experience a different side of the city's...