January 1st, 2013

The Dubrovnik Cathedral, hidden history

The Dubrovnik Cathedral was constructed after that the previous one, the Romanesque cathedral built in 12 th century, was completely destroyed by the earthquake in 1667. It was under construction between 1672 and 1713 by Andrea Buffalini from Urbino (in Roman Baroque style), when it was officaly open to public.

It is dedicated to the Assumption of Our Lady. Cathedral hosts a small, but very important collection of sacred objects, inside the Treasury, by the main altar. There can be seen many reliquiars, of which the most important are three reliquiars of St Blaise, the patron saint of Dubrovnik, made by local goldsmiths in 12th century. On the day of St Blaise, February the 3rd, in a procession, these reliquiars pass through the streets of walled city, followed by parish churches' flags. In the Treasury can also be seen many paintings of extraordinary value.