In the 17th century, Ragusa suffered a massive earthquake that became and before and after event. The pre earthquake Dubrovnik was very prosperous, it was developing, it was richness, an important harbour that rivaled with Venice, a city with whom it had many problems with the maritime commerce of the Adriatic. The post earthquake Dubrovnik was complete desolation, one after another, until days like today where it once again shines.

The Dubrovnik earthquake destroyed the old Ragusa, flattening buildings and turning the city into scraps. 1667 was the worst year in the history of this city until 1991 when another tragedy struck...this time it was a war, making this area a war field.

The Sponza Palace and the Rector Palace were the only two buildings that survived this catastrophe, together with the fortress walls. Every building in Ragusa of different centuries were destroyed. This war once again left a mark in this beautiful city.