Boninovo, Dubrovnik

Boninovo is Dubrovnik’s main cemetery, occupying the district that gives it its name. Its story reaches back to an estate with a summer residence and terraced garden walks owned by the Altesti family. During the 18th century, the house was used to organise prostitution; later, the owner gave it to public use after feeling remorse over a young woman brought from France.

French authorities established the city cemetery here during the 19th century. At the entrance to the cemetery’s central section, the Glavić family tomb is marked by a sculpture of Marija Glavić gazing toward an angel. Canessa of Genoa created it, and the cemetery also contains several works by Croatian sculptor Ivan Rendić. Separate burial sections serve Roman Catholic, Jewish, Muslim and Orthodox communities, while a memorial cross honours Dubrovnik’s fallen defenders.