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Dubrovnik fortresses - Most important information

The most visited monuments by which Dubrovnik is recognizable to everyone are the fortresses that adorn every part of this city. They talk about the rich and urban history of the town of Dubrovnik, various cultural moments, and traditions that still live on this land today. Due to its great value, Dubrovnik itself is today considered a great fortress, which in its possession preserves excellent historical stories, famous war campaigns, and the culture that first came to live here.

History of Dubrovnik fortresses
Most of Dubrovnik's fortresses began to be built at the beginning of the Middle Ages. A significant reason for constructing such fortifications was the frequent attacks of the enemy, who wanted to conquer the famous Republic of Dubrovnik at any cost. Throughout history, the Republic of Dubrovnik has been a solid state, having great economic, social and cultural wealth. Because of this, massive towers, ramparts, and walls protected this city from various attacks by invaders, and most of the fortresses were now arranged for visitors.

The importance of Dubrovnik's fortresses

Dubrovnik fortresses today represent a unique representation of historical events, events, and creations during the existence of the Republic of Dubrovnik. Different rulers built these fortifications, and numerous features are associated with a specific period.

Minceta Fortress: If you pay attention to the northwestern part of the city, you will notice that the Minceta fortress dominates this entire part. Construction began in 1319, and Nikifor Ranjina built the first smaller tower. It became present thanks to the great Renaissance artist Juraj Dalmatinac.
Lovrijenac Fortress: Lovrijenac Fortress can be reached by a forest path on a 37 m high cliff. The people of Dubrovnik started building this fortress in 1018 to protect the western part of the city. At the entrance to the fort itself, there is an interesting inscription in Latin that reads: Non bene pro toto libertas venditu auro. This emphasizes the desire and ability of the people of Dubrovnik not to sell their freedom for all the wealth of this world. Today, extraordinary stage works are performed at this place, and the fortress is open to visitors.
Orlando's Column: This fortress represents a medieval knight's figure holding a sword. It belonged to one of the most beautiful works of art in all of Europe and was built by Bonino from Milan in the 15th century. The flag of the Republic of Dubrovnik used to fly on Orlando's pillar, while today, the flag of Croatia is there.
The Buža Gate: Although today it represents the upper entrance to the Dubrovnik fortress, the Buža Gate was breached back in 1907 to escape from the city. The birthplace of Ruđer Bošković, a Croatian physicist and poet, is also located on that street.

How to get to Dubrovnik fortresses?

Most of Dubrovnik's fortifications are located near the Old Town and the famous Stradun promenade. Therefore, if you are making a walking tour of Dubrovnik, you will easily reach the fortresses above from Stradun.

On foot: All the fortresses in Dubrovnik can be reached by easy walking from any part of the city. Orlando's Tower and Buža Gate are only 50 m away from Stradun, while Minčeta Fortress is 700 m away. On the other hand, it will take a little longer to get to the Lovrijenac fortress since it is about 1 km from Stradun.
By car: Near each fortress and fortification, there are also parking spaces, which are mainly intended for tourists. Therefore, you can leave your vehicle in a safe place and enjoy Dubrovnik's cultural and historical monuments.