Fortress of Ključ, Medieval fortress in Ključ, Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Fortress of Ključ sits on a steep rocky slope at 521 meters (1,710 feet) elevation, overlooking the Sana River valley with three connected defensive sections. The structure includes a castle-town, the Tabor fortification, and the Ljubica tower that worked together as an integrated defense system.
The fortress was built during the medieval period and played a key role in controlling Bosnian territories across centuries. In 1463, it served as the final stronghold for King Stjepan Tomašević before Ottoman forces captured the medieval kingdom.
The name Ključ means 'key' in the local language, reflecting how this fortress controlled the main passages through the valley. The layout of the three sections shows how defenders needed to protect against threats from multiple directions.
The site demands moderate fitness as it sits on a steep slope with uneven paths throughout the ruins. Sturdy footwear is essential, and checking weather conditions before visiting is wise since elevation and exposure can present challenges.
Archaeological excavations uncovered Roman-era foundations beneath the medieval structures, revealing military occupation spanning multiple centuries. This layering of different periods makes the site an uncommon example of continuous fortification in Southeast Europe.
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