Dubrovnik’s tourist board traces the first Feast of Saint Blaise to 972. The saint’s image, holding the city in his hand, appears on its walls and entrances, expressing a relationship between civic identity and religious devotion that has endured for centuries. UNESCO recognised the festivity as intangible cultural heritage in 2009, acknowledging the community practices that keep it alive.

The eve of the feast includes bells, the release of white doves and the traditional blessing of throats. On 3 February, banner bearers arrive in folk costume for the procession through the old city. Their parishes connect Dubrovnik with the surrounding communities. The celebration is therefore more than an impressive setting for photographs: it renews bonds between people, place and faith, and visitors should make space for those taking part.