Drivenik Castle, Medieval castle in Vinodol, Croatia
Drivenik Castle is a medieval fortress in Vinodol with four round corner towers, thick defensive walls, and a semicircular bastion built on a hilltop. The layout shows classic medieval fortification design with structures positioned to command views over the surrounding landscape.
The fortress was granted to the Frankopan princes in the 13th century by King Bela IV as recognition for their military service to the Croatian-Hungarian crown. This gift established it as a key power center for the family in the region.
The fortress served as one of the nine settlements whose representatives signed the Vinodol Code in 1288, a major medieval legal document. This role made the place an important center where regional leaders gathered to establish shared rules.
The grounds are open for visitors to explore the remaining structures on their own, including the preserved defensive towers. The hilltop location offers good views but brings exposure to the sun, so plan your visit accordingly and wear sturdy footwear.
A wooden corridor once connected the four corner towers along the top of the walls, allowing defenders to move between positions through internal staircases. This connection enabled quick responses to threats from different sides of the fortress.
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