Nestled along the rugged Adriatic coast, the walled city of Dubrovnik in Croatia has long been a cultural and economic hub in the region. However, this picturesque city has also seen its fair share of conflict and struggle throughout its history. From medieval sieges to modern-day wars, Dubrovnik’s walls have endured some of the most intense and harrowing events in European history. Despite the challenges, however, the city has emerged stronger and more resilient than ever. Here is the epic story of the walls of Dubrovnik.

The walls of Dubrovnik as they exist today largely date back to around the 14th century, but their origins are much older. It’s believed that the construction of the first limestone forts around the city began in the Early Middle Ages in the late 8th century AD. From this point onward, the walls of Dubrovnick were repeatedly added to and rebuilt over time as new threats arose.

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In the 9th and 10th centuries, walls were built to protect the eastern part of the city. When the Saracens (an Arabic people) attacked in the 9th century, the siege lasted for 15 months, showing that even by this early point the city was well fortified.

Read more: Ancient Origins