At the beginning of Stradun, to the left of the Pile Gate, stands the impressive Franciscan Monastery of the Friars Minor. The monastery’s large complex is an architectural gem, with its northern side following the line of Dubrovnik’s city walls, extending as far as the Minceta Tower.
A Glimpse into the Past: The First Franciscan Monastery at Pile Gate
Originally situated outside the city walls, the first Franciscan monastery was located on the outskirts of Pile. However, the looming dangers of war in the early 14th century prompted the Franciscans to move within the city walls. The old monastery was demolished, and construction of the new one began in 1317, a project that took several years to complete.
Monastery and Church: The 1667 Earthquake
The monastery, along with its church, has been damaged and rebuilt several times over the centuries, most notably during the 1667 earthquake. At that time, the church, once considered one of the most beautiful and lavish in Dubrovnik, was completely destroyed. Today, only the south doorway survives, beautifully vaulted and framed by a Pietà sculpture. This masterpiece, created by the Petrović brothers in 1499, is one of the most significant late Gothic works in Dubrovnik.
The Cloisters: Masterpieces of Romanesque and Gothic Art
The monastery cloister is considered one of Dubrovnik’s finest architectural achievements, exuding exceptional harmony in its stone decoration. The double hexaphora colonnade, with its distinctive capitals, was the work of the local master Mihoj Brajkov from Bar, dating back to the 14th century. It’s a glorious example of late Romanesque art and one of the best-preserved architectural elements in the region.
The upper cloister, reserved solely for monastic use, also survived the earthquake and remains inaccessible to the public, but it adds to the rich architectural heritage of the complex.
The Franciscan Monastery Library: A Treasure Trove of Knowledge
Home to one of Croatia’s most important historical libraries, the Franciscan Monastery library preserves more than 1,200 ancient manuscripts and 137 incunabula (books printed before 1501). With a total of 20,000 volumes, this library is an invaluable repository of Dubrovnik’s cultural and historical treasures.
The Pharmacy of the Friars Minor: A Living Legacy
The Pharmacy of the Friars Minor is the second oldest pharmacy in the world and remains a fascinating part of Dubrovnik’s cultural heritage. Established in 1317 as a monastic pharmacy, it began serving the public soon after, becoming essential not only to the monastery’s economic stability but also to the community’s well-being. Dubrovnik‘s historic pharmacy continues to operate today, maintaining the age-old tradition of handcrafted preparations using high-quality ingredients.
In line with the Franciscans‘ mission, the pharmacy also provided guidance and spiritual support to the needy, reinforcing its role as a charitable and social pillar of the community. The knowledge of medicinal preparation has been passed down for generations, and some of the iconic galenic products still made today include Aqua rose, Aqua rosmarini, Aqua lavandulae, and Antrid cream.
Museum of the Franciscan Monastery
The monastery also houses a museum that offers visitors a deeper look into its rich history and culture.
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (9:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Sundays)
- Admission fee:
- Adults: €6
- Children and students: €3
- Group rates for adults: €5
- Group rates for children and students: €2.5
Opening Times and Prices:
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (winter) 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (summer)
Mass Schedule at the Friars Minor Monastery:
Weekdays
- Holy Mass: 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM
- Rosary prayer: 6:30 PM
- Eucharistic Adoration: Tuesdays after the 7:00 PM Mass
Sundays and Feast Days
- Holy Mass: 7:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 7:00 PM
Confessions
- Available every day before Mass or by appointment.
A visit to the Franciscan Monastery is an essential experience for anyone seeking to delve deeper into visit dubrovnik’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. From its timeless cloisters to the invaluable pharmacy, this location offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual and practical legacy of Dubrovnik’s past.
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Want to experience the Franciscan Monastery and other highlights of Dubrovnik’s Old Town with a local expert? Book a guided tour today for an immersive journey through history, culture, and breathtaking views. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
Best regards,
Vesna