In 1979, the city of Dubrovnik joined the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The prosperity of the city of Dubrovnik has always been based on maritime trade. Supported by its wealth and skilled diplomacy, the city achieved a high level of development, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries. 

Dubrovnik is hometown to Ruđer Bošković, Jesuit priest and scientist from the 18th century. He was the first to envisage, seek, and propose a mathematical theory of all the forces of Nature. His atomic theory inspired Michael Faraday to develop the theory for electromagnetic interaction.

Inter-University Centre Dubrovnik is an independent international institution for advanced studies structured as a consortium of universities with a mission to organise and promote contact and exchange across a wide range of scientific concerns.