Porta Ploče

The Ploče Gate, located on the eastern side of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, is one of the main entrance gates and one of the most fascinating historical structures of the city. Built in the 14th century, this gate is a magnificent example of medieval defensive engineering and played a crucial role in protecting the city. The Ploče Gate is distinguished by its complex structure, consisting of an inner and an outer section. The outer section was designed and built by the architect Mihajlo Hranjac in 1628, while the inner section, known as the Gate of St. Luke, is of Romanesque style and dates back to an earlier period. The gate was connected by a stone bridge, which originally was a wooden drawbridge, raised every night to prevent the entry of unwanted guests. This defensive system highlights the strategic importance of the gate in protecting the city. A distinctive feature of the Ploče Gate is the statue of St. Blaise, the patron saint of Dubrovnik, located above the entrance. This statue depicts the saint holding a model of the city, symbolizing his continuous protection over Dubrovnik. St. Blaise is a central figure in the city’s history, known for saving Dubrovnik from a Venetian attack through a miraculous vision. Another important aspect of the Ploče Gate is its connection to the Revelin Fortress, built in the outer section of the gate. The fortress was designed as a strategic observation point to monitor the eastern approach to the city, offering additional defense against potential invaders. The Revelin Fortress is now an important cultural site, hosting concerts and events during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Historically, the Ploče Gate played a vital role in controlling access to the city, especially during periods of conflict with other Mediterranean powers such as Genoa and Ancona. During the time of the Republic of Ragusa, Dubrovnik was an important trading center and the Ploče Gate ensured the security of goods and merchants entering and leaving the city. From an architectural point of view, the gate is an example of the fusion of styles and construction techniques from different periods. The mighty walls and sturdy bridges reflect the skill of medieval engineers in creating effective defensive structures. The stone bridge leading to the gate, with its elegant balustrades, adds a touch of beauty to this imposing structure.