Mark Thomas - The editor and big chief of The Dubrovnik Times. Born in the UK he has been living and working in Dubrovnik since 1998, yes he is one of the rare “old hands.” A unique insight into both British and Croatian life and culture, Mark is often known as just “Englez” or Englishman. He is a traveller, a current affairs freak and a huge AFC Wimbledon fan.
Email: mark.thomas@dubrovnik-times.com
Dubrovnik offers a vibrant sports scene against the backdrop of its historical beauty. From the roar of local football matches to the finesse of international tennis events, sports enthusiasts find endless excitement here. Dive into a world where sports culture thrives alongside rich heritage. For those interested in enhancing their sports experience, the Rabona betting platform available at https://rabona.com/hr/ is a comprehensive online betting site offering high-quality sports betting and casino gaming experiences.
Nestled in a region known for its stunning architecture and picturesque views, Dubrovnik is more than just a historical gem. It has evolved into a thriving hub for sports enthusiasts who seek both excitement and tradition. The city’s dynamic sports culture seamlessly blends with its rich heritage, providing a unique experience for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a passionate player or an ardent spectator, the sports offerings here are as diverse as they are engaging.
Football stands out as one of the most cherished pastimes in this area, deeply rooted in community traditions. Local clubs bring together players and fans, fostering a sense of unity and local pride. Enthusiasts can often be found gathering at local matches, where the spirit of competition fuels camaraderie. Besides football, basketball courts and tennis arenas are bustling with activity, offering alternative pursuits that cater to different interests. These sports activities not only entertain but also promote fitness and well-being among residents.
Moreover, community involvement plays a significant role in sustaining these sporting traditions. Local organizations frequently host tournaments that attract participants from various walks of life. Such events serve as platforms for budding athletes to showcase their skills while encouraging spectators to engage actively in the local sports scene. The thriving culture ensures that whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines, there’s always something exciting happening.
The love for sports extends beyond organized games to casual play among friends and family in parks and public spaces. This informal aspect of the sports culture makes it accessible to everyone, encouraging participation regardless of skill level or age. As you explore these community-driven events and activities, you'll discover how ingrained sports are in everyday life here.
Dubrovnik also hosts several prestigious international sporting events that draw global attention. These events highlight the city’s capability to organize large-scale competitions while showcasing its scenic beauty on an international stage. Such occasions not only elevate the local sports profile but also contribute significantly to tourism and the economy. Visitors flock to witness top-tier athletes compete amidst breathtaking landscapes, combining leisure with competitive thrills.
These high-profile events range from tennis tournaments featuring renowned players to sailing competitions that test endurance against challenging waters. Each event is meticulously planned to ensure it meets international standards while offering unique local flair. The influx of visitors during these times stimulates economic growth as tourists explore hospitality services and attractions beyond the stadiums.
As these events continue to grow in popularity, they help establish this area as a sought-after destination for international sports enthusiasts. The positive economic impact ripples through various sectors, demonstrating how integral these sporting showcases are to both cultural identity and financial health.
Sports betting has emerged as a popular pastime among enthusiasts looking to deepen their engagement with sporting events. For those interested in exploring this avenue, Rabona Casino offers a comprehensive platform providing opportunities to bet on your favorite sports including football, basketball, and tennis.
This platform enhances the sporting experience by allowing users to test their predictions against real-world outcomes. With options ranging from pre-match bets to live betting scenarios, it caters to both seasoned bettors and newcomers eager to try their hand at wagering.
Rabona Casino goes beyond traditional betting by offering a diverse array of casino games such as slots, table games, and live dealer experiences. This variety ensures that even when not watching a match, users can engage with exciting gaming options that bring the thrill of the casino right into their homes.
This city stands out as an enticing destination where history meets modern-day sporting enthusiasm. Its vibrant sports culture appeals not only to those passionate about participating but also to spectators who relish being part of thrilling atmospheres. Whether attending an electrifying local game or witnessing world-class athletes compete on international stages, there’s always something remarkable happening here.
The synergy between historical charm and contemporary athleticism creates a unique allure that draws visitors back time and again. By immersing yourself in this environment, you’ll find countless opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts while experiencing unforgettable moments in one of Europe’s most enchanting locales.
As you explore what this city has to offer beyond its iconic landmarks and scenic vistas, you’ll uncover why it remains a beloved haven for all things sport-related—providing joy and excitement every step of your journey.
Dubrovnik offers a vibrant sports scene against the backdrop of its historical beauty. From the roar of local football matches to the finesse of international tennis events, sports enthusiasts find endless excitement here. Dive into a world where sports culture thrives alongside rich heritage. For those interested in enhancing their sports experience, the Rabona betting platform available at https://rabona.com/hr/ is a comprehensive online betting site offering high-quality sports betting and casino gaming experiences.
Nestled in a region known for its stunning architecture and picturesque views, Dubrovnik is more than just a historical gem. It has evolved into a thriving hub for sports enthusiasts who seek both excitement and tradition. The city’s dynamic sports culture seamlessly blends with its rich heritage, providing a unique experience for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a passionate player or an ardent spectator, the sports offerings here are as diverse as they are engaging.
Football stands out as one of the most cherished pastimes in this area, deeply rooted in community traditions. Local clubs bring together players and fans, fostering a sense of unity and local pride. Enthusiasts can often be found gathering at local matches, where the spirit of competition fuels camaraderie. Besides football, basketball courts and tennis arenas are bustling with activity, offering alternative pursuits that cater to different interests. These sports activities not only entertain but also promote fitness and well-being among residents.
Moreover, community involvement plays a significant role in sustaining these sporting traditions. Local organizations frequently host tournaments that attract participants from various walks of life. Such events serve as platforms for budding athletes to showcase their skills while encouraging spectators to engage actively in the local sports scene. The thriving culture ensures that whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines, there’s always something exciting happening.
The love for sports extends beyond organized games to casual play among friends and family in parks and public spaces. This informal aspect of the sports culture makes it accessible to everyone, encouraging participation regardless of skill level or age. As you explore these community-driven events and activities, you'll discover how ingrained sports are in everyday life here.
Dubrovnik also hosts several prestigious international sporting events that draw global attention. These events highlight the city’s capability to organize large-scale competitions while showcasing its scenic beauty on an international stage. Such occasions not only elevate the local sports profile but also contribute significantly to tourism and the economy. Visitors flock to witness top-tier athletes compete amidst breathtaking landscapes, combining leisure with competitive thrills.
These high-profile events range from tennis tournaments featuring renowned players to sailing competitions that test endurance against challenging waters. Each event is meticulously planned to ensure it meets international standards while offering unique local flair. The influx of visitors during these times stimulates economic growth as tourists explore hospitality services and attractions beyond the stadiums.
As these events continue to grow in popularity, they help establish this area as a sought-after destination for international sports enthusiasts. The positive economic impact ripples through various sectors, demonstrating how integral these sporting showcases are to both cultural identity and financial health.
Sports betting has emerged as a popular pastime among enthusiasts looking to deepen their engagement with sporting events. For those interested in exploring this avenue, Rabona Casino offers a comprehensive platform providing opportunities to bet on your favorite sports including football, basketball, and tennis.
This platform enhances the sporting experience by allowing users to test their predictions against real-world outcomes. With options ranging from pre-match bets to live betting scenarios, it caters to both seasoned bettors and newcomers eager to try their hand at wagering.
Rabona Casino goes beyond traditional betting by offering a diverse array of casino games such as slots, table games, and live dealer experiences. This variety ensures that even when not watching a match, users can engage with exciting gaming options that bring the thrill of the casino right into their homes.
This city stands out as an enticing destination where history meets modern-day sporting enthusiasm. Its vibrant sports culture appeals not only to those passionate about participating but also to spectators who relish being part of thrilling atmospheres. Whether attending an electrifying local game or witnessing world-class athletes compete on international stages, there’s always something remarkable happening here.
The synergy between historical charm and contemporary athleticism creates a unique allure that draws visitors back time and again. By immersing yourself in this environment, you’ll find countless opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts while experiencing unforgettable moments in one of Europe’s most enchanting locales.
As you explore what this city has to offer beyond its iconic landmarks and scenic vistas, you’ll uncover why it remains a beloved haven for all things sport-related—providing joy and excitement every step of your journey.
Croatian Post has today issued the first commemorative stamp of 2025 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra. The nominal value of the stamp is indicated by the letter "A," corresponding to the postage rate for letters up to 50g in domestic traffic and for postcards/letters within the country. A total of 25,000 copies of the stamp have been issued, in sheets of 20 stamps. The release is accompanied by a first-day cover (FDC).
The stamp features a photograph of the first concert of the Dubrovnik Philharmonic and the anniversary logo, designed by Orsat Franković. The visual identity of the anniversary was created by his Studio Flomaster, combining the number 100 with the existing orchestra branding, which was designed in 2023 by Kristina Mirošević from Studio Bonsenjo.
The accompanying leaflet text was written by Denis Ajduković and Renata Roman Dobroslavić.
Dubrovnik is the only city in this part of Europe, and one of the few in the world, where orchestral music has been continuously performed for seven centuries. The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra continues this long musical tradition that developed during the period of the Dubrovnik Republic (1358–1808). The first symphonic concert of the Dubrovnik Philharmonic was held on April 13, 1925, and it later operated as the Dubrovnik City Orchestra, which undertook extensive tours of the USA and Canada in the 1970s (over 120 concerts). In the 1980s, it operated as the Festival Orchestra. In 1992, the orchestra changed its name to its current title.
Today, it is an important part of Croatia's cultural heritage, regularly performing at the Rector’s Palace and in churches, as well as in prestigious concert halls worldwide. It has received numerous prestigious awards, including the "Milka Trnina" award for exceptional artistic achievements, the City of Dubrovnik Award, the Award for Contributing to the Reputation and Promotion of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County, and the Orlando Grand Prix at the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, awarded by HRT. It is also important to note the orchestra's active role during the Croatian War of Independence. As a cultural institution, it organizes several festivals throughout the concert season, preserves musical heritage, and promotes Croatian composers both in Dubrovnik and abroad. The orchestra places great emphasis on the education and development of young musicians.
The 100th anniversary of the DSO's cultural work is an excellent occasion to honor those who contributed to the orchestra's development and to celebrate this milestone. During the anniversary year, the audience can expect the "Starry Cycle" featuring renowned soloists and conductors; a concert on the exact date of the 100th anniversary, a rich program throughout the year, as well as a concert celebration in Zagreb and international performances.
The visual identity of the anniversary combines the number 100 with the orchestra's existing branding, where the letter "D," as the recognizable symbol and initial letter of Dubrovnik, transforms into a sound wave, symbolizing music traveling toward the audience. The color scheme of this year’s identity places the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra in a contemporary context, moving away from traditional perceptions of orchestras.
Croatia is celebrating its first-ever Oscar nomination for The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent, a short film by Nebojša Slijepčević. The historic nod marks a monumental achievement for the country's film industry.
At a packed press conference in Zagreb, Slijepčević shared his excitement, saying, "This is just the beginning; the real challenge is the campaign ahead." Actor Goran Bogdan admitted to being "excited and superstitious" as the team faces fierce competition for Hollywood’s most coveted prize.
The film, inspired by a column from Boris Dežulović, tells a universal story of heroism and human sacrifice. "Tomo Buzov, the film’s central figure, is a hero whose story needs to be remembered," Slijepčević said.
Producer Danijel Pek revealed the arduous process behind the nomination, describing it as "one of the most complex projects I’ve ever worked on." Despite limited resources compared to major productions, the team is determined to fight for every vote.
Croatia’s Culture Minister Nina Obuljen Koržinek called the nomination "a historic day for Croatian cinema." With the campaign now in full swing, all eyes are on the Academy Awards, where this small nation could make a big splash.
Croatia's public debt, expressed as a share of GDP, fell below the permissible ceiling of 60% in the third quarter of 2024, further distancing itself from the eurozone average, according to data from the European statistical office released on Wednesday.
In the eurozone, the ratio of public debt to GDP remained stable in the third quarter of last year at 88.2%, the same level as the previous three months based on revised data.
There were no changes at the EU level either, where the ratio stood at 81.6%, with statisticians slightly adjusting the estimate for the April-to-June period.
Compared to the third quarter of 2023, the debt-to-GDP ratio in the eurozone decreased by 0.2 percentage points and by 0.1 percentage points in the EU.
At the end of September, the gross public debt of the eurozone amounted to €13.2 trillion, while at the EU level, it totaled €14.47 trillion. This indicates an increase of approximately €100 billion in the eurozone and €200 billion in the EU compared to the end of June.
Ryanair, the popular low-cost carrier, has officially announced new flight routes from Croatia, with tickets now available for purchase.
As reported by EX-YU Aviation News, the airline is moving forward with its plans to introduce new flights from Dubrovnik to both Marseille and Katowice.
In addition, Ryanair will be launching a new service connecting Zadar to Bratislava, marking the Slovak capital as the 54th destination from Zadar to be served by the airline.
The carrier is also expected to announce a new route between Hahn and Rijeka in the near future.
Last year's celebration of the UNESCO World Heritage Year in Dubrovnik included over 200 programs organized by 35 institutions and individuals.
The year was proclaimed in honor of 45 years since the historic core of Dubrovnik was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, 15 years since the Festivities of Saint Blaise was added to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and the inclusion of the archival collections of the Dubrovnik Republic on the Memory of the World Register.
Numerous cultural institutions, educational organizations, non-governmental associations, individuals, and international organizations such as UNESCO and Europa Nostra participated in the programs. Special attention was given to educating young people through workshops, quizzes, and interactive programs.
Among the exhibition programs, a standout was the joint exhibition of the Dubrovnik Museums and the Dubrovnik State Archives titled "Dubrovnik and UNESCO," which prominently showcased valuable archival materials from the time of the Dubrovnik Republic included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. Another notable exhibition by the Dubrovnik Museums, "In Honor of the Glorious Defender: Saint Blaise and UNESCO," marked the conclusion of this special year.
The central celebration took place in late October, featuring the installation of UNESCO World Heritage symbols at the entrances to the historic core and the ceremonial awarding of the "Heritage Champions" prize to the Society of Friends of Dubrovnik Antiquities. On the 45th anniversary of the UNESCO listing, a Heritage Institutions Open Day was held.
This anniversary reminds us of the universal value of Dubrovnik's heritage and the responsibility to preserve it for future generations.
The City of Dubrovnik extends its gratitude to everyone who contributed to the successful celebration and continues to promote awareness of the importance of heritage preservation. In 2025, Dubrovnik looks forward to new cultural milestones, including the 100th anniversary of the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, the 80th anniversary of the Dubrovnik Art Gallery, and the 60th anniversary of the Linđo Folklore Ensemble.
Dubrovnik's Habitat Distillery has been awarded the prestigious "Zlatna povelja" (Golden Charter) in the category of "Small Family Producers – Craft Tourism," a significant recognition of its dedication to quality and innovation in the tourism sector.
On this occasion, Dubrovnik Mayor Mato Franković extended his congratulations to Habitat Distillery, commending their achievements and contribution to the city’s reputation as a premier destination for authentic, high-quality experiences.
In his statement, Mayor Franković emphasized the importance of their work, stating:
“It is my great pleasure to congratulate you on receiving the prestigious Golden Charter award in the category of ‘Small Family Producers – Craft Tourism.’ This accolade is a testament to your dedicated work, passion, and vision, which have culminated in the creation of high-quality products and unforgettable experiences that enrich the tourism offerings of our city.
By bringing the unique flavors and aromas of our Mediterranean environment to life, you have masterfully intertwined tradition, innovation, and local artistry. Dubrovnik takes pride in having producers like you, who represent our region in the best possible light and attract visitors from around the world. This award is a clear acknowledgment of your excellence and the vital role you play in promoting Dubrovnik as a destination that values local heritage and authenticity."
Mayor Franković also expressed confidence in the distillery's continued success and its contribution to the city’s thriving community, wishing them further achievements in the years ahead.
Habitat Distillery is celebrated for its unique approach to blending traditional Mediterranean ingredients with modern techniques, creating products that resonate with both locals and international visitors. The award further solidifies its standing as a leader in craft tourism and a vital ambassador for Dubrovnik's local values and traditions.
The accolade highlights Dubrovnik’s ability to showcase the best of its culture and innovation, with businesses like Habitat Distillery playing a pivotal role in the city’s identity as a globally renowned destination.