Sponza Palace is a historic building in the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It was built in the 16th century as a customs house and a mint, and it served as a cultural and political center of the Republic of Ragusa. Today, it houses the city archives and hosts various exhibitions and events.
The palace is open to visitors every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on public holidays.
The entrance fee is 50 kuna (about 7 euros) for adults and 25 kuna (about 3.5 euros) for students and children. You can also buy a combined ticket that includes access to other attractions in the city, such as the Rector’s Palace and the Franciscan Monastery.
To get to Sponza Palace, you can take a bus, a taxi, or a cable car to the Old Town of Dubrovnik, where the palace is located on the main square. You can also walk from the nearby Pile Gate or Ploče Gate, which are part of the city walls.
Some tips for visiting Sponza Palace are:
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there are many stairs and narrow passages in the palace.
- Respect the silence and the rules of the archive, which prohibit photography, food, drinks, smoking, and pets inside the palace.
- Enjoy the architecture and the artworks of the palace, which include Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements, as well as sculptures, paintings, and coats of arms.
- Learn more about the history and culture of Dubrovnik and the Republic of Ragusa through the documents and exhibits in the archive.
- Join a guided tour or an audio guide to get more information and insights about the palace and its surroundings.
Sponza Palace is one of the most beautiful and important buildings in Dubrovnik, and it offers a glimpse into the rich past of this city. It is a must-see for anyone who wants to explore the heritage and charm of Dubrovnik.
