Minčeta, Defense tower in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Minčeta is a limestone defense tower in Dubrovnik rising about 20 meters high with walls approximately 6 meters thick. The circular structure features gun ports positioned throughout its design and serves as the highest point of the city's fortifications.
The tower was built in 1319 by Nicifor Ranjina as a quadrilateral fort and underwent major reconstruction after 1463 under architects Michelozzo di Bartolomeo and Juraj of Dalmatia. This transformation adapted it to newer defensive needs and changed its original form.
The tower takes its name from the Mencetić family, who owned the land where this defense structure of the Dubrovnik Republic stood. Visitors can sense how this place embodied the city's power and independence during its time as a maritime republic.
Reaching the top requires climbing about 750 steps to access the highest vantage point of Dubrovnik's defenses. The ascent is steep and tiring, so wear comfortable shoes and allow time to rest as you go.
During construction, every person entering Dubrovnik through the Pile or Gruz gates had to bring a stone to contribute to the tower's development. This system was a clever way to gather building materials while involving the community in its creation.
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