Cultural History Museum Dubrovnik

The story of the Cultural History Museum in Dubrovnik begins in 1872 with the founding of the Patriotic Museum. Back then, it housed a modest collection of cultural history artworks. Things took a significant turn after World War II, when Dr. Božo Glavić, the passionate curator and first manager of the cultural history department, championed the idea of expanding the collection. His efforts led to the relocation of the collection to the stunning Rector’s Palace, where the first public display was unveiled in 1950. Over the years, this collection evolved into a distinct department within the Dubrovnik Museum, eventually becoming the Cultural History Museum, a key part of Dubrovnik Museums.

Today, the museum's collection is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and artistic gems. It boasts around ten thousand objects, each with its own story, spanning from the late 15th century to the early 20th century. The collection is thoughtfully organized into fifteen categories, including painting, printmaking, furniture, textiles, ceramics, metals, icons, glass, photographs, documents, postcards, and more. Notably, it also features items related to the renowned writer Ivo Vojnović, old weaponry, and numismatics.

Wandering through the museum feels like stepping back in time, with each room offering a new discovery. The Rector’s Palace itself is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, adding to the allure of the experience. It's a place where history and art come alive, inviting visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of Dubrovnik.