When visiting the vibrant city of Dubrovnik, be sure to explore the rich history of the Church of St. Mary. This modest church is home to many fascinating artifacts and provides insight to a bygone era. Learn about the architecture, relics, and services available, as well as some interesting facts about the Church of St. Mary, Dubrovnik. Let this article act as your guide to exploring everything this iconic church has to offer!
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1. The Church of St. Mary was an important location in the movie “The Game of Thrones”. It served as the exterior for the Tower of the Hand, the seat of the Hand of the King in the series.
2. The St. Mary church is considered to be one of the most important sacral monuments and Baroque buildings in Dubrovnik.
3. The church was built in the 17th century and its facade is a masterpiece of Dubrovnik Baroque.
4. The church has a large bell tower with a unique curved shape, it was created by the Venetian architect from the 17th century.
5. Inside the Church of St. Mary you can find the well preserved frescoes from the 17th and 18th century.
6. In the 18th century the church was an important spiritual center, it has it’s own monastery and the most valuable archives of Dubrovnik.
7. St. Mary church, as well as other churches in Old Town Dubrovnik, were heavily damaged during the 1991 – 1995 conflict. It regained its glory after a long reconstruction in 1998.
The Church of St. Mary is one of the oldest extant churches in the Croatian city of Dubrovnik. The Roman Catholic church dates back to the 10th century and is the largest church in the city. It is located in the Old Town area of Dubrovnik and is an important example of the Romanesque style of architecture in the region.
The Church of St. Mary was first mentioned in the year 893 in a papal letter from Pope Stephen VI. It underwent some ornamental changes and modifications during the 12th century, during the period when the Republic of Ragusa, (the predecessor of the Republic of Dubrovnik), was in its heyday. The church contains many late-medieval and renaissance features, such as its main façade and baroque bell tower from 1673.
The interior of the church contains several notable works of art. These include the main altar, a 17th-century painting by Michelangelo Rossi, and a bronze statue of the Virgin Mary from the 17th century. The church also holds a treasury, containing various historical relics, including sacred garments and liturgical items. A crypt located underneath the church holds the remains of some of the city’s most prominent citizens, such as the great humanist Marin Držić and the poet Ivan Gundulić.
Today, the Church of St. Mary is a popular tourist destination in Dubrovnik. The church is also an important symbol of the city, and is known to locals as ‘Matarana’, or the mother church. The church holds regular services and is the site of numerous weddings and baptisms each year.
1. Location: The Church of St. Mary is located in the old town of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It is situated at the western end of Stradun, the main thoroughfare of the city.
2. Hours of Operation: The Church of St. Mary is open every day during the summer season from 9am to 7pm and from 10am to 6pm in the winter season. There is no admission charge for visitors.
3. Attractions: The Church of St. Mary boasts one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in the city. It is decorated with ornately carved marble columns, gilded ceilings, and detailed murals. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful organ, which is still used for services throughout the year.
4. Activities: Visitors are welcome to explore the church and partake in guided tours of the building. Visitors can also attend a Catholic mass on Sundays or other holidays, and listen to the pipe organ during services.
5. Dining and Shopping: Restaurants and shops can be found nearby on Stradun and the surrounding area.
6. Tips: It is advisable to bring a bottle of water and to wear comfortable shoes when exploring the church. As with most religious buildings, visitors should dress appropriately and remain respectful while exploring the building.
Q: What is the history of the Church of St. Mary?
A: The Church of St. Mary dates back to the 13th century where it was rebuilt in the Gothic style and consecrated in 1318. Its current form was constructed in 1715 and it has been meticulously preserved and maintained since then.
Q: What services does the Church of St. Mary offer?
A: The Church of St. Mary offers weekly Masses as well as special services such as baptisms and weddings. Additionally, the church is an important center of local cultural and entertainment life and hosts concerts and other cultural events throughout the year.
Q: Is there a dress code for visitors to the Church of St. Mary?
A: The Church of St. Mary does not have a strict dress code, however visitors are expected to dress modestly. Shorts and tank tops are not allowed and hats should be removed when entering the Church.
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