Benedictine Monastery of St. Mary

"The Benedictine monastery of St. Mary on Lokrum Island is recognized as the oldest and most significant Benedictine abbey in the Dubrovnik region, founded in the 11th century. The 15th and 16th centuries marked a flourishing era for the monastery, during which the Benedictines constructed a magnificent Gothic-Renaissance structure that showcased their architectural prowess. However, the monastery suffered considerable damage during the great earthquake of 1667, which devastated much of Dubrovnik and its surroundings. After the abbey was abolished at the end of the 18th century, the Benedictines vacated the island, leading to a change in ownership as Lokrum became property of the influential Austro-Hungarian Habsburg dynasty. The Habsburgs transformed the monastery into their country residence, preserving its status as a notable architectural monument in Croatia. Today, the ruins of the monastery serve as a testament to its rich history and the cultural heritage of the region, attracting visitors who come to explore its serene grounds and appreciate its historical significance."