Dubrovnik, and later the Republic of Dubrovnik, based its development on trade and a strong merchant navy .

During the 15th and 16th centuries, the Republic was at its peak and Dubrovnik ships sailed throughout the Mediterranean, the Atlantic and even the Indian Ocean

The republic was in many ways ahead of its time. Thus, for example, was the first in Europe to abolish slavery in 1416 and was among the first to introduce sewer system in 1296.

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