POVIJEST DVORA – Dvor

Panoramic drawing of Ston and Mali Ston.

Source: "A New Look at the Second City of the Republic of Dubrovnik," E. Žile, Heritage Protection, Quarter XIV – 3│4-2017.

Ston and Mali Ston are historical settlements with a rich history of fortifications. Ston extends along the Ston walls, and from the top of the Podzvizd hill, there is a beautiful view of the well-organized settlement, salt fields, and the bay. The Ston area has a long history of habitation, with findings dating back from prehistory to antiquity, the Middle Ages, and up to the present day.

Ston served as the administrative center of the region during the time of the Dubrovnik Republic and played a crucial role in salt production. The construction of the Ston walls began in 1333 and lasted until the early 16th century. The walls were built to protect the settlements and salt pans, stretching along the isthmus that connects Ston and Mali Ston. The total length of the preserved walls today is approximately 5,500 meters.

Ston was a meticulously organized town, with a systematic division of land, residential blocks, public spaces, and buildings for both religious and communal purposes. The inhabitants of Ston were predominantly peasants who cultivated the surrounding land.

Mali Ston is a settlement founded in 1335 through the planned construction of the Dubrovnik Republic. It had defensive, commercial, military, and maritime functions. Its planned layout with five square-shaped units surrounded by houses and a central courtyard has been preserved. The settlement played a significant role in exporting salt, wine, and other agricultural products.

The Ston fortification system, stretching between Ston and Mali Ston, bears witness to the vision and defensive strategy of that area. After the restoration of the walls, they were opened to the public, and the fortification system is continuously being renovated. Mali Ston was an important trading port and a shipbuilding center. The settlement was developed following the planning experiences of Dubrovnik, with a systematic layout of residential blocks and streets.

Mali Ston has suffered various damages throughout history, including earthquakes and wartime destruction. The process of restoration and conservation of the settlement began after World War II, and it has especially intensified over the last decades. The Society of Friends of Dubrovnik Antiquities has invested significant efforts in the restoration of the Ston walls and other structures. Despite challenges, the work on the restoration and preservation of the overall Ston area continues.

The Rector’s Palace in Ston has a rich history of renovations and reconstructions. Although the exact records of construction and reconstruction periods are not available, it has retained its core structure dating back to the 16th century. Following the ground plan of the palace in Dubrovnik, Ston adopted a distinct L-shaped layout. The Rector's Palace served as the residence for the Prince of Ston and as a prison during the time of the Dubrovnik Republic. The Rector's Palace was home to the rector of Ston conte di stagno), a public official responsible for governing the Pelješac region. This role was closest in function to today's mayor, although the citizens didn't elect the rector; instead, the appointment was made by the Dubrovnik Republic. The Rector was typically a Dubrovnik noble, chosen for a term ranging from six months to a year to prevent the development of a corrupt network. The exact year of the building's construction is not known, but it is certain that the Rector's Palace underwent numerous alterations over time while retaining its core structure from the 16th century.

The Rector's Palace building holds architectural significance and a continuous existence, yet it has undergone numerous changes throughout history. The Rector's Palace carries historical and ambient value, bearing witness to the historical complexity of Ston.

The ensemble of the historical and urban complex of Ston, including the Rector's Palace, Ston Walls, and the nature reserve, is currently on the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This area encompasses urban structures that developed in harmony with the natural environment, reflecting the historical, strategic, and economic role of Ston. The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Croatia has submitted a request for the inscription of this ensemble on the UNESCO World Heritage List to recognize its significance and preserve it for future generations.

EN