Red History Museum

The Red History Museum in Dubrovnik offers visitors a unique, immersive experience into the history of Yugoslavia, the Cold War, and the broader geopolitical context of Eastern Europe. Located just outside the Old Town, this museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts, stories, and exhibits from the communist era, with a particular focus on the personal and collective history of the region. The museum explores the everyday lives of people under Yugoslavia’s socialist regime, delving into topics like propaganda, life under Tito’s leadership, and the eventual breakup of Yugoslavia. Through its extensive collection of photos, uniforms, memorabilia, and audiovisual presentations, the museum paints a compelling picture of a turbulent and transformative period in modern history.

Top Tickets & Tours

• Red History Museum ticket: Purchase on-site at the museum or buy tickets online in advance to skip the line during peak hours.
• Combination Tickets: Pair the Red History Museum with nearby attractions such as the City Walls or Rector’s Palace for a full historical experience. Check combo deals at ticket counters or through official websites.
• Guided tours: Available through local tour operators. A guided tour provides deeper insights into the history of the museum and its exhibits. These are highly recommended for those who want a more detailed understanding of the socialist era.

Tickets & Passes Explained

• Red History Museum Ticket: Regular entry to the museum is around €6 for adults, with discounts for students and children. Tickets are available on-site at the museum entrance, or you can opt for e-tickets online for a faster entry experience.
• Dubrovnik Pass: This pass, which grants access to several major attractions in Dubrovnik, does not include the Red History Museum, but you can get a discount for the museum with the pass.
• Combo tickets: Some combination tickets are available that allow you to visit multiple museums in Dubrovnik, including the Red History Museum. These are perfect for those looking to explore more of the city’s history and culture during their visit. Tickets can be purchased on the official museum website or at various ticket kiosks in Dubrovnik.

Prices, Discounts & Free Entry Rules

• Standard ticket: €6 for adults, €3 for students/children (under 12).
• Family tickets: €15 for up to 2 adults and 2 children.
• Discounted entry: Residents of Dubrovnik and ICOM members often receive free entry or significant discounts.
• Free entry: Children under 12 years old can enter for free. Teachers and academic staff from participating universities also benefit from free entry, so check with your institution.
• Groups: If you’re visiting with a group of 10 or more, it’s a good idea to contact the museum in advance for a group rate.

Opening Hours & Seasonal Schedule

• Summer (May–Oct): Open daily from 09:00 to 19:00.
• Winter (Nov–Apr): Open daily from 09:00 to 17:00.
• Closed on:
  Dec 25 (Christmas Day)
  Jan 1 (New Year’s Day)
  Feb 3 (St. Blaise’s Day)

It’s a good idea to check the museum’s website for any special opening hours during holidays or when temporary exhibitions are running.

Location, Entrances & Map

• Address: Dr. Ante Starčevića 11, Dubrovnik
• The museum is just a short walk from Pile Gate, located near the eastern entrance of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. It is conveniently situated for visitors who are exploring the city’s historical sites, yet outside the busy main streets, offering a quieter museum experience.
• The main entrance is located directly on the street level, with clear signage guiding visitors to the museum’s front doors.

How to Reach

• On foot from Pile Gate: From Pile Gate, it’s about 10 minutes on foot through the Old Town to the museum. Walk along the Stradun (main street) and follow the signs to the Dr. Ante Starčevića street.
• By bus: Public transport options stop at Pile or Gruž Port. The Libertas Bus Line 1A/1B connects the Old Town with more remote areas.
• By taxi/Uber: If you prefer a taxi, you can get dropped off near Pile Gate or Ploče Gate. Both are within walking distance of the museum.

Parking: There is no parking inside the Old Town. However, public garages are available near Pile Gate, and from there, it’s just a short walk to the museum.

How Long to Spend & Ideal Visiting Route

• Recommended time: You can expect to spend about 60 to 90 minutes exploring the museum. If you have a particular interest in the Cold War, Yugoslav history, or socialist-era memorabilia, you may want to spend closer to 2 hours.
• Ideal route: Start with the overview of Yugoslavia’s formation and timeline, then explore key exhibits like propaganda art, personal stories, and interactive audio/visual displays to gain an in-depth understanding of life in socialist Yugoslavia. Finish with the exhibit on the breakup of Yugoslavia and its effects on the region.

Highlights & Must-See Exhibits

• Cold War and Propaganda: Learn about the Cold War era in Yugoslavia and the political climate that shaped the country’s foreign relations.
• Personal stories and artifacts: The museum displays personal items from ordinary citizens, like letters, uniforms, and household objects that tell the story of daily life under the regime.
• Yugoslavia under Tito: Gain insight into Josip Broz Tito’s leadership and his role in the non-aligned movement.
• The Breakup of Yugoslavia: The final exhibit discusses the tensions leading to the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s, including visual materials and testimonies about the impact of the breakup.

History & Architecture

The museum is housed in a historic building that was once part of the socialist-era government buildings. Its architecture reflects the mid-20th century period, blending modernist and functional design typical of the time. The exhibits inside are meticulously curated to reflect the political, social, and cultural aspects of the Red (socialist) history of the region, with a specific focus on the Yugoslav era.

Guided Tours & Audio Guide Options

• Guided Tours: The museum offers guided tours with a local historian or curator. This is a great option for those looking to get a deeper understanding of the history and significance of each exhibit.
• Audio guides: The museum provides audio guides in multiple languages, available at the entrance. The audio guides are a great way to enhance your visit with historical context, especially if you’re keen to know more about specific artifacts or periods.

Accessibility, Stairs & Facilities

• Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps available at the entrance. However, there may be some narrow pathways in parts of the museum.
• Stairs: There are stairs to access the upper floors, but the museum is mostly on the ground level.
• Facilities: Restrooms are available inside, as well as a cloakroom for your coats and bags. There is a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs related to Yugoslav history, art, and books.

Photography, Security & Visitor Rules

• Photography: Photography is allowed inside, but no flash is permitted. Tripods are not allowed inside, so be mindful of your equipment.
• Bag policy: Large bags and backpacks are not allowed in the exhibition rooms; smaller bags should be carried at the front or left in the cloakroom.

Best Time to Visit & Crowd Tips

• Best time to visit: Early mornings or later afternoons are ideal to avoid the crowds.
• Cruise-day tips: On days when cruise ships are docked, Dubrovnik can get crowded. If possible, visit the Red History Museum in the morning, right after it opens, or during late afternoons when cruise visitors start to leave.
• Weather: The museum offers a great indoor experience, making it a perfect escape on rainy days or during hot summer afternoons.

Events & Temporary Exhibitions

The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions related to Yugoslav history, including film screenings, lectures, and special events that focus on particular aspects of the communist era. For up-to-date information on events, visit the museum’s website or inquire at the entrance.

Combine with Nearby Sights

• Old Town: The Red History Museum is located just a short walk from the Old Town. Pair it with a visit to the City Walls or Rector’s Palace for a full day of historical exploration.
• Sponza Palace and Cathedral: These nearby sites also provide a rich historical experience and can be combined with a visit to the museum.

Suggested Itineraries

• Quick visit (1 hour): Museum → Coffee at Luža Square → City Walls (for 90 minutes).
• Half-day Old Town tour: Museum → Rector’s Palace → Cathedral → Sponza → City Walls.

FAQs