A new walking tour is proving popular with tourists and locals alike in Mlini.
‘A Walk Through Mlini’s History’ is the first-ever guided tour of its kind in Mlini and is led by Vedran Mezei, author of the historical novel, The Third Key. Mezei takes visitors to the most important sites in the village, revealing their fascinating stories and legends as well as the notable figures who shaped its story. For book worms the tour is the perfect opportunity to take a deeper dive into Mezei’s novel as Mlini served as the inspiration and setting for much of his second book.
Here’s what you can expect on a walk through Mlini’s history:
At the very beginning, in order to take a step back in time, you will be briefly acquainted with the plot of the novel The Third Key as well as with basic information about the history of the City of Dubrovnik and the former Republic of Dubrovnik. This is followed by a tour of the village where the parish church of St. Hilarion is presented, and the story of the great earthquake of 1667 in which this sacral building was completely destroyed.
Arriving under the impressive plane tree in Mlini, you will learn of Mlini’s history, and through the story of the nearby church of St. Roch, about the numerous plague epidemics that affected the Republic for centuries. There is also the opportunity to enter the church, which is normally closed, after which the walk continues along the nearby beach. There, details about St. Hilarion’s stay in Mlini will be revealed.
Upon arrival at Beterina, a secluded bay east of Mlini, you’ll hear stories of the wealthy people of the Dubrovnik Republic as well as the Russian-Montenegrin siege of Dubrovnik in 1806 when the mansion located here was looted and set on fire. The last destination is precisely this country estate. It’s then time to hear details about the rich history of the Bettera mansion, its alleged ghostly connections, and Ruđer Bošković, one of the most famous scientists of the eighteenth century and certainly the most famous historical figure who lived there.
At the end of the tour, there will be the chance to buy a copy of The Third Key which, according to literary blogger Sandra Pavličević is, “A story about the stunning history of Dubrovnik that reveals the most important key of life. The best souvenir that you can take from this magnificent city.”
Tours will take place every Saturday at 10am until the end of August and are free of charge. The walk lasts around an hour and a half and is led in the English language. The meeting point is in front of the lower entrance of Hotel Astarea (next to the indoor pool and wellness centre). This is an event under the auspices of the Tourist Board of Župa dubrovačka.
For private tours or other times, send a request via the website: vedranmezei.com (contact form) or by email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.