Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia. Its history starts in 7th century when the invasion of Slavs destroyed Epidauros and other communities in the area. This made inhabitants to flee to Laus which evantually changed to Raus which then became Ragusa – the historic name for Dubrovnik.
Between 9th and 12th century Dubrovnik expanded considerably and was considered as somewhat of a threat to Venice and its Republic. This was the reason why it came under attac from Venice and from 1205 to 1358 came under its rule.
The old town was completed in 13th century and remains unchanged to the present day. In 1358 Dubrovnik became a part of Croat-Hungarian country which gave an independence to it.
In 1667 Dubrovnik was hit by an earthquake, which killed 5000 inhabitants and destroyed the city. Until 1806 the city was under the threat of Venice and its Republic and then the Napolean enterd Dubrovnik and after a little resistance Dubrovnik became a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1815.
After World Word I, Dubrovnik became a part of Croatia and after World War II it became a part of Yugoslavia.   Dubrovnik was subjected to considerable shelling by Serbs during the war in 1991/2 in a siege that lasted seven months. The town was destroyed but it was quickly restored and became one of the most beautiful places in Europe.