ARSENALS

ARSENALS
Dubrovnik had extremely well-organised arsenals where galleons and other types of warships, that the people of Dubrovnik used for defending its maritime interests and territory, were built, repaired, equipped and carefully maintained. The Republic of Dubrovnik had three state arsenals for storing its small naval fleet: The Large and Small Arsenals (Veliki I Mali Arsenal) in old city harbour and the Arsenal in Mali Ston (Arsenal u Malom Stonu). From the mid-14th century, the arsenals were managed by a state admiral appointed each year by the Small Council from among the citizens-captains from the island of Lopud. There were even cases where admirals held this post for many years, some even for life. The arsenal manager was considered senior government official, sometimes also performed the duties of a war fleet commanding officer. During the feast of St. Blaise, the state flag was raised by him on the Orlando Column.

There are no written records from the time of Dubrovnik arsenals, but the first mention was found in the Dubrovnik Statute from 1272, in provisions concerning the rights of the head of the arsenal and his oath of service. According to writing of Dubrovnik chronicler Junije Rastic, the city arsenals were founded in 782. However, although there are no archaeological findings to confirm such an early date, archaeological research in the city centre showed remains of defensive city walls likely belonging to the early medieval period, potentially proving the early foundation of arsenals.