President Milanović Attends Feast of St. Blaise Opening Ceremony in Dubrovnik
The President of the Republic Zoran Milanović attended the official opening of the Feast of St. Blaise, the patron of the city of Dubrovnik and the Diocese of Dubrovnik.
The tradition dates back to the 10th century and is based on the legend of a saint who helped the people of Dubrovnik to defend their freedom during the Venetian siege of the city. This year, for the 1050th time, Dubrovnik honoured its patron St. Blaise with a traditional ceremony. In 2009, the Feast of St. Blaise was placed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
The traditional celebration started in front of the Church of St. Blaise with the releasing of white doves, which symbolize freedom and peace, and by raising the banner of St. Blaise on Orlando’s column.
PHOTO: Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia / Ana Marija Katić