Fort Revelin, 16th century fortress in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Fort Revelin is a limestone fortification on the eastern side of Dubrovnik, built with thick walls that guard the approach to the Old Harbor and city entrance. A large paved terrace dominates its interior, connected by passageways and rooms that remain visible throughout the structure.
Construction began in 1538 under architect Antonio Ferramolino and became the city's most important building project for years. The project was so demanding that all other construction work in Dubrovnik came to a halt during this period.
The fortress serves as a cultural venue where outdoor performances and concerts take place on its large stone-paved terrace. These events connect the site to the rhythm of contemporary city life and draw both locals and travelers.
The fortress is easily reached by stairs and footpaths, offering clear views over the harbor from multiple vantage points. Visitors should know that some paths atop the structure can be narrow and sturdy footwear is advisable.
The fortress survived the catastrophic 1667 earthquake intact while much of the surrounding city lay in ruins. This structural strength made it a crucial safe haven for the city's most valuable possessions.
Location: Dubrovnik
Made from material: limestone
GPS coordinates: 42.64209,18.11224
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:45
The old town of Dubrovnik sits on the Adriatic coast and shows buildings from the 13th to the 17th centuries. The city was an independent maritime republic for hundreds of years and developed its own architecture that combines Venetian and local elements. The city walls enclose a compact core of palaces, churches and public squares built on limestone. The main street Stradun runs straight through the town and connects the main gates. At both ends stand fountains from the 15th century that once secured the water supply. The Rector's Palace shows how the elected rulers lived and worked, while Sponza Palace once served as a customs house and mint. The city wall itself is walkable and offers views of the sea and the rooftops of the old town. Several fortresses reinforced the defenses: Fort Lovrijenac perches on a rock outside the walls, Revelin Fortress protected the eastern approach, and the sea wall ends at St. John's Fortress, which now houses a maritime museum. Lokrum Island lies just a short boat ride away and was once a monastic site. Today plants from different climates grow there. The beaches around Dubrovnik often sit in small coves between rocks, where the water is clear and deep. The Dominican Monastery and Franciscan Monastery preserve art and manuscripts from the republic's era. The cathedral was rebuilt in baroque style after an earthquake in the 17th century destroyed the older church.
Rector's Palace, Dubrovnik
232 m
Dubrovnik Cathedral
287 m
Sponza Palace
176 m
Orlando's Column
200 m
Lazzarettos of Dubrovnik
88 m
St Blaise's Church
234 m
Franciscan Church and Monastery
386 m
Saint Ignatius Church
372 m
Minčeta
310 m
Holy Annunciation Orthodox church
306 m
Clock tower
176 m
Dominican Church and Monastery in Dubrovnik
87 m
City Guard Building
189 m
Cableway Srđ
110 m
Saint John's Fortress
223 m
Porporela
258 m
Banje
343 m
Mala Onofrijeva česma
190 m
Skočibuha palace
312 m
Kaše
127 m
The State Archives in Dubrovnik
140 m
Maritime Museum
250 m
Marin Držić Theatre
207 m
Banje Beach
304 m
Natural History Museum (Dubrovnik)
346 m
Dominican Monastery
88 m
War Photo Limited
292 m
Dubrovnik Aquarium
253 mReviews
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