Wanting to preserve its independence, Dubrovnik paid a great attention to construction of the city walls and fortresses. Today's city walls originate from the 14th century, but they have been fortified and improved by constructing numerous fortresses, towers and bulwarks.

The peak of cultural development Dubrovnik reached in 15th and 17th century, when thanks to economical prosperity and connections with European centers renaissance culture is developed in Dubrovnik. In that time Dubrovnik's aristocracy and wealthier common people study in Italian cities, so painting, literature, philosophy and science are developed. Inside the city walls palaces are constructed and in surroundings and on islands many summer residences. In the earthquake in 1667 many artworks were damaged, and great part of the town was destroyed. After the earthquake Dubrovnik is reconstructed in Baroque style, and literature, art culture, music and philosophy start to develop again.

From the 19th century the city expands as garden city, with houses and villas surrounded with gardens, and from the beginning of 20th century with many hotels. In this period also many artists reside or live in Dubrovnik. Since 1950 and setting up of Dubrovnik Summer Festival Dubrovnik becomes art and music center.