Dubrovnik bans sitting on famous steps – fines introduced

Jesuit Steps (Skalini od Jezuita) in Dubrovnik (Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

The City of Dubrovnik has announced a ban on sitting on some of its most famous steps, with fines set to be introduced for those who do not comply.

The decision comes as part of the city’s efforts to preserve cultural heritage and ensure the smooth movement of residents and visitors through the historic centre.

Mayor Mato Franković explained that the prohibition will apply to the steps in front of the Church of St Blaise and the Jesuit steps, both of which are among Dubrovnik’s most recognisable landmarks.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

“We want to strengthen sustainability and respect for the historic core by introducing a ban on sitting on these steps. Both represent invaluable cultural heritage, not only of Dubrovnik but of the world. We believe they should be treated with a certain level of respect. Sitting on them, particularly when people eat sandwiches there, we consider inappropriate,” Franković told Dnevnik Nova TV .

The steps, besides being a magnet for tourists, also hold deep symbolic significance.

(Photo. Sailko/CC BY 3.0)

The stairway in front of the Church of St Blaise links sacred space with the city’s urban life, while their distinctive stone architecture stands as a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and remains an important part of Dubrovnik’s global identity.

According to the city administration, the measure is intended not only to protect the appearance and functionality of these cultural landmarks, but also to reduce congestion in the heart of the Old Town, where summer crowds regularly cause bottlenecks.