Dubrovnik, Croatia: Saint Blaise Statue

Say, who's the guy whose statue is in the wall in Dubrovnik? Must be someone important.

Indeed he is. That's Saint Blaise, now considered the Patron Saint of the city. There's a fine story behind it. 

On the evening of February 2, 971, Venetian forces had stopped in the waters right outside of the city. While supposedly they were anxious to purchase supplies for a journey, their real plans were more sinister: They planned to attack Dubrovnik. Spies who were dressed as sailors took notes of the city's defenses. But they weren't the only ones taking notes. A man who said his name was Blaise told a local priest (perhaps in a vision) that the Venetians planned to attack. 

The word spread, and defenses came on line to full alert. The guard was doubled and the gates were closed. The element of surprise had been eliminated. Dubrovnik was saved.  

That's why February 3 is celebrated as a holiday in Dubrovnik. Blaise's remains were brought to the city in 1026, and given a final resting place. The statue shows him with a model of the city in his hand. A church in the area was built and named for him.  

Here's a look at the party and the story.