Historic Dubrovnik park reopens after first full restoration in nearly 130 years

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

One of Dubrovnik’s most historic public parks has reopened following its first comprehensive restoration since it was established in 1898.

Gradac Park, the largest and oldest existing public park in Dubrovnik, was officially reopened with a programme for residents of all generations following a major project designed to preserve its historic character while improving its everyday use.

The restoration represents the first complete and systematic renovation of the park since its opening 128 years ago.

Although parts of Gradac were renovated on several occasions, including between the two world wars and after the Second World War, previous interventions did not cover the entire park.

The most recent major intervention took place in 1929.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

The latest restoration was carried out with an emphasis on preserving the park’s cultural and historical value and its distinctive green character.

A total of 439 existing trees were preserved, while 401 new trees were planted, representing more than 30 different species. More than 13,000 additional plants and perennials were also introduced.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

The project included the restoration and improvement of walking paths, the existing fountain and public lighting, as well as new urban furniture.

The children’s playground was refurbished, while a small auditorium was created in the northern section of the park for gatherings and outdoor activities.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

New viewpoints have also been added, along with an accessible public toilet, a new hydrant network and an irrigation system.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

A new pedestrian path now extends into an area of Gradac that was previously unused, opening additional parts of the park to visitors.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

The park has a significant place in Dubrovnik’s heritage. It was established through the work of the citizens’ association “Dub”, which played a role in creating and developing several of the city’s parks in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

In January 1966, the entire park was declared a cultural monument by the then Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

The restoration had a contracted value of €3.72 million excluding VAT, or €4.65 million including VAT, Grad Dubrovnik said, adding that works were carried out by Texo Molior, with professional supervision provided by Empora.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

The project forms part of the wider Green Infrastructure Network initiative, which also includes the park in Pile and the park below the plane tree. The wider project is supported by €5.56 million in grants through the Integrated Territorial Investments (ITU) mechanism.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

The reopening was marked by performances by TRIKO Circus Theatre, followed by an official ceremony and live music from young Dubrovnik musicians performing with the bands Bakula and New Noise.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

The groups operate under the Dubrovnik Centre for Children, Youth and Family, with mentoring from the Podroom TUP association.

(Photo: Grad Dubrovnik)

With its restoration complete, Gradac has once again been presented as a public space for recreation, socialising, play and everyday life, while retaining its historic character and greenery.