Luža Square, at the eastern end of Stradun, is one of Dubrovnik’s busiest and most historically significant central squares. It has been an important meeting point for centuries and is home to some of the city’s most significant landmarks, making it a must-visit spot in the Old Town.
Since the Middle Ages, Luža Square has been a central meeting place for citizens of the Republic of Ragusa, present-day Dubrovnik. Here, public announcements, proclamations, and even executions took place.
At the center of the square is Orlando’s Column. This stone column, adorned with a medieval knight, dates back to 1417. The column symbolizes the city’s independence and growing power.
Other sights of interest on the square include Sponza Palace, the Dubrovnik Bell Tower, the Church of St. Blaise, Small Onofrio’s Fountain, and the Rector’s Palace.
In addition to historic sights, the square is surrounded by many restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops, which are busy at all hours of the day.
Today, the square remains a popular meeting place for locals and tourists. It is also a place to celebrate. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival starts at the square in July, while the Festivity of Saint Blaise ends here in February.
Luža Square Information
Hours
24 hours
Admission
Free
Map
Nearby Sights
Church of St. Blaise
The Church of St. Blaise, located on the eastern end of Stradun, is one of the most iconic and famous landmarks in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The church, dedicated to Saint Blaise, the patron saint of Dubrovnik, dates back to the early 18th century. A Romanesque church stood at this location from the 14th century until the middle of the 17th century.
Orlando's Column
In the center of Luža Square, on the eastern end of Stradun, is Orlando's Column, a historic stone monument dating back to 1418. Carved into the statue is a heroic medieval knight who defended Dubrovnik from invaders. In 1418, Bonino di Jacopo, an Italian master sculptor from Milan, built the column with the help of local sculptor Antun Dubrovčanin.
Small Onofrio's Fountain
Located at the eastern end of Stradun, off Luža Square, is the historic Small Onofrio's Fountain, an ornately decorated octagonal fountain. The small fountain, often overlooked by tourists, played an essential role in the history of Dubrovnik's water supply. Italian architect Onofrio della Cava designed and constructed the fountain between 1440 and 1442.
Statue of Marin Držić
At the eastern end of the Stradun, across the street from the Church of St. Blaise, is the bronze Statue of Marin Držić. At the bottom of the seated statue is a plaque that reads "MARIN DRŽIĆ (1508-1567) - On the occasion of the 500th anniversary of his birth - City of Dubrovnik."