After a complete reconstruction, the Memorial Room of the fallen defenders of Dubrovnik in Sponza Palace was solemnly opened last week. The design of the Memorial Room, according to the architectural project by interior designer Nikolina Jelavić Mitrović, author of award-winning museum exhibitions, aligns with the twentieth anniversary of the opening of the Memorial Room in its current space within the Sponza Palace. According to the author, the Memorial Room is a dedication to this City as a symbol of freedom, allowing visitors to connect on a personal and emotional level.

In his address, the Mayor of Dubrovnik, Mato Franković, stated that museums play a crucial role in interpreting history and promoting truth, in this case, the truth about the Homeland War and the role of Dubrovnik's defenders in defending the City and preserving Freedom. "Stopped, interrupted, but never forgotten Dubrovnik youth... Their names and faces will tell the story to all visitors about a generation of proud, brave, and fearless people who, without weapons or war experience, courageously stood to defend their homes and our right to freedom. In their eyes, there is no trace of hatred, only unconditional love for the Homeland, for the City of Freedom, and for their families," Mayor Franković said.

He recalled the powerful words of the defence commander of the City, Brigadier General Nojko Marinović, who said, "memory is a tool, and hatred is a huge burden," stating that the Memorial Room should serve as an encouragement for memory and a reminder that freedom is always worth the sacrifice.