DistantNews
Support us
Nobel laureate George Bernard Shaw called Dubrovnik 'paradise on Earth'
๐Ÿ‡ญ๐Ÿ‡ท Croatia /Culture & Society

Nobel laureate George Bernard Shaw called Dubrovnik 'paradise on Earth'

From Veฤernji List · () Croatian

Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • Irish writer and Nobel laureate George Bernard Shaw visited Croatia twice, expressing admiration for its landscapes.
  • He described the Kornati islands as a creation of tears, stars, and breath, and called Dubrovnik "paradise on Earth."
  • Shaw's observations are celebrated as part of Croatia's cultural heritage, particularly on the 170th anniversary of his birth.

George Bernard Shaw, the renowned Irish playwright and Nobel laureate, was deeply enchanted by Croatia's natural beauty during his two visits in 1929. His eloquent descriptions of the country's landscapes have become a cherished part of Croatia's cultural heritage.

Upon witnessing the Kornati islands, Shaw poetically remarked, "On the last day of creation, God wished to crown his work and created the Kornati from tears, stars, and breath." This vivid imagery captured the stark beauty of the rocky islands scattered across the Adriatic Sea.

On the last day of creation, God wished to crown his work and created the Kornati from tears, stars, and breath.

โ€” George Bernard ShawShaw's poetic description of the Kornati islands during his visit to Croatia.

Continuing his journey south, Shaw found Dubrovnik equally captivating. He declared, "Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik." This powerful endorsement cemented the city's reputation and resonated deeply within the region.

Shaw's appreciation for the rugged stone, the tranquil sea, and the simple, almost surreal, landscapes set him apart from many travelers who sought only sun and Mediterranean luxury. His observations are being highlighted as Croatia marks the 170th anniversary of his birth.

Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik.

โ€” George Bernard ShawShaw's enthusiastic appraisal of Dubrovnik upon his arrival.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog