Dubrovnik, founded in the 7th century, is situated on the Adriatic coast in the southernmost part of the Republic of Croatia.
In the 12th and 13th centuries the small Dubrovnik state built strong city walls, more or less where they stand today, to defend and guard its independence. King Richard the Lionhearted found shelter against a storm not far from Dubrovnik on his return from the Crusades in 1192. Fulfilling a vow, he gave the city a sum of money to start building the Dubrovnik Cathedral. The Codified Statute was adopted in 1272.

Between 1580 and 1600 Dubrovnik’s merchant navy had more ships than ever - it included around 200 ships and about 5000 sailors. About the same time, the Dubrovnik Republic had a well developed network of consulates and consular offices in more than 80 cities and ports.
The beginning of the 19th century brought Dubrovnik the last days of its century-long freedom. In 1806 the city gates were opened to Napoleon’s soldiers and the small free state disappeared forever.

For more information about Dubrovnik please visit this web-site.