Old town Đurđevac, Medieval castle in Đurđevac, Croatia.
Old town Đurđevac is an octagonal fortress built from stone and brick with thick defensive walls and military features typical of the 15th century. The structure now houses an art museum displaying approximately 2,000 works by the artist Ivan Lacković Croata.
The Bishop of Pécs built this fortress around 1488 as a defensive structure against Turkish invasions and to settle disputes among regional nobility. Its strategic location made it a key stronghold during the period of Ottoman threats in the region.
The fortress serves as a venue for the Picokijada Festival each June, where visitors watch medieval combat reenactments, browse traditional craft displays, and hear regional music performances. This annual gathering celebrates local heritage and draws people interested in historical traditions.
Visitors can explore the art museum inside the fortress, which offers guided tours in multiple languages when arranged in advance. It is helpful to check opening hours beforehand and allow time to view the collections at a comfortable pace.
During a Turkish siege, defenders famously launched their last rooster from a cannon in a desperate attempt to convince attackers that the fortress still had food supplies. This clever trick reveals the ingenuity and determination of those who defended the place.
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