Museum of the Croatian War of Independence

The Museum of the Croatian War of Independence, located in the picturesque Imperial Fortress on Mount Srđ, is an institution dedicated to documenting and commemorating the Croatian War of Independence, fought between 1991 and 1995. This war, also known as the Homeland War, was a crucial conflict that led to Croatia’s independence from Yugoslavia and left an indelible mark on the city of Dubrovnik and its people. The Imperial Fortress, built in 1812 by the French during the Napoleonic rule, was a strategic defense point during the conflict. This fortress, with its thick stone walls and dominant position over the city, became a symbol of Dubrovnik’s resistance during the siege of 1991-1992. The choice to host the museum in this historically significant location makes the visiting experience even more powerful and immersive. The museum is divided into four main sections that tell the story of the war and the siege of Dubrovnik. The first section explores the fall of the Republic of Dubrovnik and the history of the Imperial Fortress. Through a series of documents, maps, and photographs, visitors can better understand the historical and political context that led to the war. The second section is dedicated to the Serbian-Montenegrin aggression of 1991. This part of the exhibition documents the bombings and attacks that Dubrovnik suffered during the early months of the conflict. The photos and videos show the devastation caused by the bombings, with images of destroyed buildings, deserted streets, and citizens seeking refuge. This section offers a poignant view of human suffering and the difficulties faced by the civilian population. The third section of the museum celebrates the days of victory and the actions of the Croatian army’s liberation. Here, visitors can see weapons, uniforms, flags, and other artifacts used during the decisive battles that led to the liberation of Dubrovnik. This part of the exhibition highlights the courage and determination of the Croatian soldiers, who fought for the freedom and independence of their country. The last section of the museum is dedicated to civilian victims and damage to cultural and historical monuments in Dubrovnik. This section commemorates the citizens who lost their lives during the conflict and documents the city’s reconstruction process. Visitors can see personal items, letters, diaries, and other testimonies that tell the individual stories of those who lived through the war. One of the most touching elements of the museum is the commemorative plaque listing the names of those who died defending Dubrovnik. This plaque, located outside the fortress, is a permanent tribute to the sacrifice and courage of the city’s defenders. Additionally, the museum houses the original Croatian flag that flew over the Imperial Fortress during the siege, a symbol of hope and resistance.