Hotels near Franciscan Monastery

Tucked just inside the Pile Gate entrance, the Franciscan Monastery dates to the 14th century and shelters one of Dubrovnik's most peaceful corners. The highlight is the Romanesque cloister - a double colonnade of slender columns topped with carved capitals depicting human faces, animals, and plant motifs. Each column is unique. The cloister garden, planted with orange and palm trees, feels miles away from the Stradun crowds just metres outside.

Inside the monastery is the Mala Braca Pharmacy, which has been in continuous operation since 1317, making it the third-oldest working pharmacy in Europe. You can still buy natural remedies - rose cream and lavender water are popular souvenirs. The adjoining museum displays old pharmacy equipment, manuscripts, and religious art. The monastery church, largely rebuilt after the 1667 earthquake, contains a marble Pieta above the main altar. Entry to the cloister and museum is about 8 EUR.

Pro Tip: Before entering the monastery, look to the left of the church portal on the narrow lane - you will spot a small stone head protruding from the wall. Local tradition says you should stand on the ledge below it and try to balance on one foot while removing your shirt. It looks absurd, but it draws a crowd every evening.