Beneath the rule of the city, clouds roll and unfold

My longing for Croatia began with 'The Adventures of Solo' and 'Game of Thrones'. Six years ago, when I set foot on this magical land, Dubrovnik became my first destination. From a distance, the orange-red rooftops shimmer under the sunlight, like a dazzling gem set on the blue marble of the Adriatic Sea. Walking into the old town, you are surrounded by cobblestone streets and old buildings, as if traveling through a time tunnel to the Middle Ages. Climbing the city walls, you can overlook this 'city sewn from stone'. The orange rooftops are neatly arranged, ancient castles and churches rise from the ground, and the blue bay surrounds the city. This secluded tranquility is Dubrovnik's greatest charm. Of course, we can choose to take a boat around the city, admiring this ancient city that has experienced the Roman Empire, the Crusades, the Renaissance, World War II, and civil war from the sea. Wandering through the streets and alleys of the old town, you can occasionally encounter the lazy life of the locals: plump black cats fed by tourists snoozing in the sun, old-timers who have lived through the ages sitting by the window drinking coffee, and groups of children laughing and playing in the squares and streets. I enjoy admiring the finely carved Gothic architecture within the city, strolling along Stadun Street, and lingering in the boutiques and cafes on both sides. Most unforgettable is the compact yet expansive basketball court nestled beneath the orange rooftops. If time allows, be sure to visit Mount Srđ behind the old city, where you can take a cable car or go hiking. From the top, you can overlook the entire old city and the Adriatic Sea. The restaurant on the mountain top is the best spot for viewing, where you can start from the afternoon, sit down for a drink, and wait for the sunset. If you're lucky, you'll encounter cumulonimbus clouds drifting towards the sea, and you'll see the entire old city's golden hue dimmed and then brightened; beneath the rule of the city, clouds roll and unfold, serene and composed. Behind the mountain top, there is a Fort Imperial ruin, a defensive fortress built in the 18th century, now a historical museum. Friends interested in Yugoslav history and the Croatian War of Independence should not miss this hidden spot. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dubrovnik has left me with endless memories and fantasies. My heart longs for it, looking forward to meeting again!