Hi everyone!
“Nazdravlje vam festa svetog Vlaha!” — that’s how we greet each other in Dubrovnik every year on February 3rd, the feast day of our beloved patron saint, St. Blaise.
Today, I want to take you on a journey into something deeply rooted in the soul of our city — a story that blends faith, tradition, flavor, and community. Let’s step into the celebration of St. Blaise, and of course, into the irresistible world of Šporki makaruli.
The Love of a City: A Saint and His Legend
Saint Blaise is not just a statue on an altar. To us, he is a protector, a spiritual guide, and a symbol of unity. According to legend, St. Blaise once saved a child from choking on a fishbone — a miraculous act that earned him the title of patron saint of throats, and forever linked his name to compassion and healing.
Each year, as February 3rd approaches, the city begins to stir with anticipation. The night before, locals gather at the Church of St. Blaise to take part in a unique tradition: the “grličanje”, or throat blessing.
Two crossed candles are gently placed at your throat while a priest invokes the saint’s protection — a beautiful, ancient ritual that connects us not only to faith, but to our shared history.
The Feast Day in Full Glory
The highlight of the celebration is the grand procession down Stradun, our city’s majestic main street. Imagine a swirl of colorful folk costumes, the rhythmic steps of generations walking side by side, banners fluttering in the wind, and church bells echoing through the stone.
This is more than a celebration. It’s a living memory, carried by the people of Dubrovnik with immense pride and emotion. We don’t just honor St. Blaise — we live the story, year after year.
Šporki Makaruli: A Taste of the Past
And what would a true Dubrovnik celebration be without food that warms both the heart and the belly?
Enter Šporki makaruli — which literally translates to “dirty macaroni”. Don’t let the name fool you! This is a rich, slow-cooked meat dish served over pasta, full of spices and history. Every family has their own twist, but the essence is the same: a comforting plate that brings generations together.
Traditional Recipe for Šporki Makaruli
Ingredients:
- 1.6 kg beef (preferably shank), cut into small cubes
- Pork fat
- 3 large onions, chopped
- 2 dcl red wine
- Parsley, garlic, cinnamon, a few cloves
- Ground nutmeg, salt, pepper
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Aged sheep cheese for topping (optional)
Preparation:
- Sauté onions in hot pork fat until golden. Add tomato paste and stir for a few minutes.
- Add beef and cook in its own juices. When browned, pour in red wine.
- Once the wine boils, add garlic, parsley, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt and pepper.
- Reduce and let simmer slowly for several hours (up to 4), adding hot water as needed.
- Serve over cooked macaroni, topped with melted fat and grated cheese if desired. Let rest 15 minutes before serving.
This dish carries stories, generations, and the warmth of Dubrovnik’s soul in every bite.
Celebrating Together
So dear friends, whether you’re walking in the St. Blaise procession, watching from the sidelines, or simply enjoying a plate of Šporki makaruli with family — know that you’re part of something deeply meaningful.
May February 3rd unite us all — in faith, in joy, and around the table.
Let St. Blaise guide us through another year of love, pride, and the little traditions that make Dubrovnik unforgettable.
See you soon,
Vesna