History of Cavtat

Long ago, in the 6th century BC, an ancient tribe known as the Illyrians founded a town on the verdant, sun-drenched shores of the Adriatic Sea. They called it Epidauros. Nestled at the heart of a serene bay, protected by the gentle embrace of forested hills, Epidauros flourished as an influential and prosperous trade city. The bounty of the sea and the fertility of the surrounding land nourished the town, and its reputation grew, attracting the interest of the expanding Roman Empire…

The Romans, with their well-organized army, arrived in the 1st century BC. Under their rule, Epidauros continued to prosper. They built roads, public buildings, and aqueducts, imbuing the town with an aura of majesty that befitted its status.

But, as often happens in the course of history, peace and prosperity were not everlasting. In the 7th century AD, invading Slavic and Avar tribes, fleeing from their home territories, attacked the town. The residents of Epidauros found refuge on the nearby wooded peninsula, where they founded a new settlement…

Over time, this new town evolved into what we now know as Cavtat. The name is derived from "Civitas Vetus," meaning "Old City" in Latin, a nod to the ancient Epidauros.

Under the Republic of Ragusa (the historical name for Dubrovnik), Cavtat thrived. Maritime trade, shipbuilding, and salt production drove its economy. The town was fortified with walls, and beautiful palaces and churches were erected. One could often hear the chisel against the stone, the hum of the shipbuilder's saw, the fervent prayers of the faithful, and the lively chatter of the marketplace.

After the fall of the Republic of Ragusa in the 19th century, Cavtat entered a quieter phase of its history. The turbulence of the World Wars and the Croatian War of Independence in the 20th century scarred the region but could not erase its spirit.

Today, Cavtat stands as a testament to its resilient history. The echoes of the past are still palpable in its well-preserved old town, the Gothic-Renaissance architecture, and Rector's Palace. However, the town has embraced modernity in a way that complements its historical charm. The quiet alleyways are home to chic cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. Luxurious yachts line the harbors, and the beaches teem with visitors soaking in the Adriatic sun.

As a renowned cultural and historical destination, Cavtat offers an array of activities, from diving in the clear blue waters to hiking in the picturesque Konavle region. Meanwhile, the Cavtat Summer festival enlivens the town with music and dance every year, echoing the vitality of its ancient festivals.

Cavtat, steeped in history and adorned by natural beauty, remains a vibrant town, ever-evolving while keeping its roots firmly in the ground. As we walk along its promenade today, we feel the presence of the millennia that have shaped it, and we're reminded of the rich tapestry of human history, of which this town is a vital thread.