History of the Jews in Dubrovnik

The Jewish community of Dubrovnik (modern day Croatia) existed as early as the 15th century, and grew significantly with the arrival of Jews and Marranos expelled from Spain and Portugal.

The Jews of Dubrovnik played a significant role in the trade and diplomatic relations of the Republic of Ragusa but also experienced expulsions, restrictions and persecution.

The first Jew residing permanently in Dubrovnik was recorded in 1421 and a small community existed in the city in the 15th century.

It grew significantly after the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492, when many of the expelled went east and some eventually settled in the city-state of Dubrovnik, the Republic of Ragusa.

Many Jews became traders and craftsmen, dealing with spices, silks, fabrics, and crafts that were in demand at a seaport city.

[4] Notable Marranos who lived and worked in Dubrovnik include the physician Amatus Lusitanus and the writer Didacus Pyrrhus [fr; sr].

This outcome was considered a miracle by the Jews of Dubrovnik, however the substantial expenditures related to the case caused a conflict within the community.

[6] The restrictions imposed on the Jews of Dubrovnik led to the majority of them leaving the city for Venice or the Ottoman Empire.