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| Dubrovnik, Croatia. |
| Dubrovnik and it's Countryside, Art and Cuisine
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| Ship/Sailing: Seven Seas Mariner / September 6, 2012 |
| Tour Date: September 8, 2012 |
| Ship Time in Port: 9:00 am - 11:00 pm |
| Tour Name: Dubrovnik and it's Countryside, Art and Cuisine
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| Full-Day Tour: Depart: 10:00am Return: 4:00 pm |
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Ports of call: : Venice, Urbino, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu, Taormina, Sorrento/Capri, Rome (Civitavecchia), Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Monte Carlo.
Medieval Dubrovnik, formerly the Republic of Ragusa, was one of several walled cities established in the 7th century to guard the coastal approaches to Croatia. Its fortification has remained relatively unchanged since the 13th century. Today the city walls are in excellent condition and prevent invasion by automobiles. Within the walls, the lovely sleek lines of Venetian-style buildings complement a wealth of ancient stone architecture.
Your tour begins with a scenic drive along the lovely coastline and through charming valley villages to visit the Old Mill, Mlinica Dvori, in Konavle Valley. It is one of the last preserved functioning mills from the system called "lower mills" built along the river Ljuta shortly after 1550.
Upon arrival you'll receive a brief demonstration on the process of milling corn into flour. You'll see how the sheer force of the flowing water runs ancient machinery that turns a giant mill stone, grinding the grain into the desired consistency. A light snack of traditional delicacies such as smoked ham, cheese and homemade bread will follow.
Next, your drive continues to the nearby village of Gruda and the charming art gallery of local artist Antonia Ruskovic. You will be greeted by the young artist who will proudly introduce you to her beautiful paintings, embroidery, and ceramics. After visiting the art gallery, a scenic ride will take you through the chain of Konavle Valley villages to a typical country home. Here you will have a unique opportunity to see first-hand how a brandy, olive oil and wine producing family lives, processing olives and grapes in the traditional way for generations. Your gracious hosts will serve a full lunch of the local specialties: cheese, grilled meats, smoked ham and homemade bread, while typical "Dalmatian" music and songs are performed by a group of local musicians/ singers.
Following lunch, return to Dubrovnik and the Pile Gate which marks the beginning of the famous main street - the Stradun - to join your guide for a short stroll through the Old Town. You'll pass the Franciscan Monastery, whose cloister is one of the most inspiring sites of the city, and the 15th century Rector's Palace, which became the government seat before the Dubrovnik Republic was abolished by Napoleon in 1808. Following that will be some free time to explore the walled city on your own before returning to the ship.
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