Preparatory works have begun on the historic buildings at Dubrovnik’s Jesuit complex, where the exterior stone staircase and wrought iron railing between the Ruđer Bošković Classical Gymnasium and the Dubrovnik Diocese Seminary are set to undergo restoration.
The staircase is part of a protected historic complex located within Zone A of Dubrovnik’s Old City, the city’s highest level of heritage protection.
The buildings once formed part of the former Jesuit college and remain one of the recognisable historic landmarks of this area of Dubrovnik.
The restoration project, completed in August 2025 and approved by conservation authorities a month later, includes the full restoration of the exterior staircase and railing.
Conservation reports and expert inspections found significant damage caused by years of exposure to weather, moisture, sea salt and natural ageing. The stone staircase shows cracks, worn surfaces and damage to several stone blocks, while the wrought iron railing has suffered heavy corrosion and structural damage, particularly around its lower sections and connection points.
As the space is used daily by students, staff and visitors of the Ruđer Bošković Classical Gymnasium, safety is one of the main priorities alongside the preservation of the site’s historical value, the Dubrovnik Diocese said.
The next phase of the project will include detailed conservation research and material analysis to determine the exact condition of the original elements and the full extent of the damage. Based on those findings, experts will decide whether the existing wrought iron railing can be restored or whether certain parts will need to be recreated.
All works will be carried out under the supervision of conservation authorities, while part of the funding is being provided through the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Media’s heritage protection programme.
The restoration is expected to take several months, depending on the results of the research and the scope of the required works. During that time, a temporary protective fence will be installed to ensure the safety of students, staff and visitors while keeping the area accessible.
The goal of the project is to preserve the authenticity and historical character of one of the distinctive architectural features of Dubrovnik’s Jesuit complex for the long term.
