Dubrovnik Clock Tower

The Dubrovnik Clock Tower is one of the Old Town's most iconic landmarks, located on Luža Square at the end of Stradun. The history of the tower is rich and complex, dating back to the 15th century.

The tower was originally built in 1444, but it has been damaged and rebuilt several times throughout history. As a result of the Dubrovnik earthquake of 1667, the tower was seriously damaged. At the beginning of the 19th century, when the tower began to lean towards Stradun, it was demolished in 1928. The following year, it was rebuilt according to the original design.

The clock tower is 31 meters high, being one of the tallest structures in the old town. The bronze bell that strikes the hour of the tower was cast in 1506 by Ivan Rabljanin. The tower has two bronze quarters, known as Maro and Baro or Zelenci, which strike the bell every quarter of an hour. The green patina of these figurines has made them well-known and beloved symbols.

The current figures acting as Zelenc figurines are replicas created in 1929 during the reconstruction of the tower. Zelenc's originals, dating from around 1478, are on display in the Museum of Cultural History in the Rector's Palace.

The Dubrovnik Clock Tower is not only historically important, but also an important landmark that helps preserve the unique character and history of the city. The restoration and preservation of the tower over the centuries has been an important part of preserving and presenting Dubrovnik's heritage.