Walking around Dubrovnik it is hard to imagine that only a number of years ago the majority of this city was bombed out and sections set on fire in the war of liberation from 1991 to 92 with the peace treaty being signed in 95. Over two thirds of the homes were destroyed and many world heritage sites bombed. In such a short period of time thanks to the aid of the UN and a number of countries, the city has been rebuilt and restored into what it is and has always been a wonderful city surrounded by a huge protective wall situated on a beautiful coastline with crystal clear emerald water.
Dubrovnik has always been a popular tourist spot. One thing that makes Dubrovnik so special is that many locals still live within the old city walls where many tourist sights are located. It isnt like many other cities where the locals have been pushed out of by tourism. Dubrovnik is what I envision Italy to be like; alleys on steep hills with lots of steps, and laundry hanging out to dry. In the middle of town at the bottom of the hill is a large wide stone plaza. Cars arent allowed within the old city walls so the streets are wonderful to stroll along and people watch.
Dubrovnik is a tourist location but it is hard not to lose sight on the past and all that the Croatians have been through over the years. Since the war is so recent most everyone that you meet on the street besides the real young children remember the war and were affected by it in some way or another. The town is beautiful but the sense of war isnt lost. One day we spent an hour and a half hiking up the huge hill outside Dubrovnik for a wonderful view of the city along with the coast from north to south. At the top of the hill was an old fort still with a number of gunshot holes in the doors. The view was breathtaking but the memory of the horrible past can never be forgotten.
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