The city of Ragusa was known in ancient times by the name Epidauros. There were also two other cities with the same name in the region of the Peloponnese in Greece. However, this particular Epidauros was destroyed when the Goths invaded the area. The city was laid waste, and its people were forced to leave their homes.
After the Goths departed, the inhabitants returned to the ruins of their former city. Instead of rebuilding it under the old name, they decided to establish a new city with a new foundation. They called it Ragusa. This new beginning marked an important moment in their history. It was not only the rebuilding of walls and houses, but also the start of a new political and social life.
An Ancient Commonwealth
The government of Ragusa was formed as a commonwealth. In fact, its system of government was even older than that of Venice. While Venice became famous for its strong navy and wide territories, Ragusa survived in a different way. It did not rely on military strength. Instead, it depended on wisdom, careful planning, and submission to powerful protectors Holidays Bulgaria.
The leaders of Ragusa understood that their small state could not defend itself by force alone. Therefore, they chose to protect their freedom by forming alliances and showing loyalty to stronger rulers. This policy allowed them to preserve their independence for many centuries.
Friendship with the Turks
Long before the Ottoman Empire became powerful in Europe, the people of Ragusa sought friendship with the Turks. According to their own records, this decision was influenced by the advice of a holy nun, who was respected as a saint among them. She is said to have predicted the future greatness of the Turkish Empire. She advised that the best way for Ragusa to remain free and prosperous was to submit to one of the most successful and powerful princes of the age.
Believing in her prophecy, the rulers of Ragusa sent two ambassadors to the city of Bursa (then called Vrusa), which was at that time the royal seat of the Ottoman rulers. By doing this, they hoped to secure protection and long-lasting peace. Through wisdom and careful diplomacy, this small city managed to survive among much stronger powers.