House of Marin Držić

The Marin Držić House, located in the heart of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the greatest Croatian playwright of the Renaissance. Born in 1508, Držić is often compared to Shakespeare for his ability to address universal themes through comedy and satire. His birthplace was transformed into a museum in 1989, with the aim of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of this extraordinary author. The building that houses the museum is located near the Church of Domino and was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1667, partially on the site of Držić’s original house and the former Church of All Saints, of which Držić was rector. The current structure maintains the Gothic charm of Renaissance Dubrovnik, offering visitors a suggestive environment that evokes the era in which the writer lived.The museum’s exhibition path is designed to offer an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the life and works of Držić. The highlights of the playwright’s biography are marked along the staircase, while various rooms display conspiratorial letters, reconstructions of period objects based on Držić’s promissory notes, and theatrical costumes representing his most famous characters. These elements are presented with modern museographic techniques, combining physical exhibitions with multimedia resources to make learning engaging and dynamic.Marin Držić was known for his rebellious spirit and his ability to criticize the society of his time through satire. This attitude led him to clash with local authorities, culminating in the writing of conspiratorial letters to the Medici of Florence, in which he asked for help to overthrow the government of Dubrovnik, which he considered corrupt and oligarchic. These letters, displayed in the museum, provide a fascinating insight into Držić’s complex and often controversial personality.In addition to historical documents, the Marin Držić House hosts a collection of portraits by contemporary artists, small sculptures, and applied art objects that further enrich the understanding of the cultural context in which Držić operated. The museum also organizes temporary exhibitions, conferences, and workshops that delve into various aspects of Renaissance literature and theatrical history.A visit to the museum allows you to immerse yourself in the lively cultural scene of Dubrovnik’s Renaissance, exploring Držić’s theatrical works that remain relevant and appreciated to this day. His comedies, such as “Dundo Maroje” and “Skup,” are regularly performed during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, demonstrating Držić’s enduring influence on local and international culture. The museum is easily accessible and offers a variety of services, including guided tours, a souvenir shop where you can purchase editions of Držić’s works translated into different languages, and a specialized library that supports academic research. Opening hours are flexible to accommodate both tourists and local residents, making the Marin Držić House a must-visit for those exploring Dubrovnik.