Jesuit Staircase

Overview

Nestled within the ancient, stone-clad heart of Dubrovnik Old Town, the Jesuit Staircase stands as a magnificent testament to Baroque artistry and urban planning. This grand, curving stairway connects the bustling Gundulić Square with the serene plateau of Bošković Square, leading visitors to the impressive Church of St. Ignatius and the Collegium Ragusinum. Often likened to Rome's famous Spanish Steps, these elegant stairs are not merely a passage but a destination in themselves, offering a dramatic visual experience. Beyond their historical and architectural significance, the Jesuit Staircase has gained global recognition in recent years, becoming an iconic landmark for travelers and pop culture enthusiasts alike.

History & Cultural Background

The story of the Jesuit Staircase is deeply interwoven with the presence of the Jesuit order in Dubrovnik, dating back to the late 16th century. The ambitious project to establish a Jesuit college and church began in the mid-1600s, with the Collegium Ragusinum being officially established in 1658. However, progress was significantly delayed by the devastating earthquake of 1667, which leveled much of Dubrovnik.

By the end of the 17th century, the project resumed under renewed efforts. The renowned Jesuit architect and painter Andrea Pozzo is credited with finalizing the plans for the Church of St. Ignatius, modeling it after Il Gesù in Rome, the mother church of the Jesuit order. The church was completed in 1725, boasting one of the most impressive Baroque interiors on the Adriatic coast.

The monumental staircase, designed by Roman architect Pietro Passalacqua, was the final and crucial element, completed in 1738. Its purpose was to theatrically link the spiritual and academic complex above with the vibrant city life below. Inspired by Rome's Spanish Steps, Passalacqua's design transformed a functional connection into a masterpiece of urban design, featuring broad, sweeping curves and split flights that ascend gracefully.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Jesuit Staircase apart is its exceptional Baroque architecture and its harmonious integration into Dubrovnik's unique topography. It represents one of the finest examples of late Baroque stair design along the Adriatic coast, crafted to be both practical and dramatically theatrical.

The staircase consists of 136 broad limestone steps that curve and widen as they climb, creating a fluid, almost wave-like impression in stone. This elegant, symmetrical structure is a stunning example of 18th-century urban planning, showcasing how architecture can work in concert with the natural landscape to create a powerful aesthetic. The complex, comprising the Collegium Ragusinum, the Church of St. Ignatius, and the stairs, is widely considered the highest quality example of Baroque architecture and town planning in Croatia, and according to many, in all of Dalmatia.

Recently, the Jesuit Staircase underwent its first comprehensive restoration in nearly three centuries, since its construction in 1738. Completed in 2025, this significant project has returned the stairs to their original grandeur, ensuring their preservation for future generations while also revealing historical drainage channels beneath the steps.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Perhaps the most famous modern tale associated with the Jesuit Staircase stems from its role as a filming location for HBO's hit series 'Game of Thrones'. It was here that the infamous 'Walk of Shame' scene featuring Cersei Lannister was filmed in Season 5, instantly catapulting the stairs to global fame. Fans of the show often visit to recreate moments and take photos, although locals appreciate when visitors are respectful of the site's historical context.

At the base of the stairs lies Gundulić Square, a lively hub that hosts a popular morning market. Here, visitors can find fresh produce, local snacks, and souvenirs, experiencing a slice of everyday Dubrovnik life just steps away from the grand Baroque ascent. Climbing the stairs offers a gradual transition from this vibrant marketplace to the more serene and elevated Bošković Square.

The Jesuit complex itself holds historical significance beyond its architecture. The Collegium Ragusinum, established in 1658, was the first educational institution in Dubrovnik to focus on natural sciences and arts. Even today, the building houses a grammar school, continuing its legacy of learning.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Jesuit Staircase is an essential part of any exploration of Dubrovnik's Old Town. The stairs are freely accessible 24 hours a day, inviting visitors to experience their grandeur at any time. While they can get crowded, especially during peak tourist hours, an early morning or late evening visit offers a more peaceful experience and excellent photographic opportunities, particularly with the soft Adriatic light.

The climb, though consisting of 136 steps, is generally considered manageable and incredibly rewarding. As you ascend, the sounds of the city gradually fade, and the architectural details of the surrounding buildings become more pronounced. At the top, you are greeted by Bošković Square, where the impressive façade of the Church of St. Ignatius rises majestically, its Baroque beauty a fitting reward for the climb. The square also hosts public concerts in the summer, adding another layer to its charm.