Adriatic Sea reminds us of the history better than every other Balkan country. So, there are big chances that your path will lead you to Šibenik at some point. When you arrive there, pay attention to significant fortresses that are scattered around town and are basically a soul of Šibenik. Although we live in relatively peaceful times, they were essential part of defending the city several centuries ago. So, wander around and explore the sites that successfully protected Šibenik in times of need. For an ultimate Balkan experience, visit our itinerary page to be enlighten with some ideas for your next vacation.
St. John Fortress:
It was built in the year of 1646 during the Candia war and represents a great example of 17th century military architecture. Year later, the fortress had to fought a harsh battle against the Ottoman Empire and their leader Techieli-pasha. Thanks to its star – shaped architectural patterns, it had ideal angles for defensive fire against the conquerors. During the time, it was strengthened and adapted several times. Even today, visitors are stunned by its appearance and every time tourists come to Zadar, St. John fortress is an unavoidable site. When you reach the top of the fortress, you will be rewarded by splendid view of Šibenik channel and nearby St. Michael’s Fortress.
St. Nicholas Fortress
One of the most exceptional monuments of the world’s architectural heritage. Today, tourists are gathering in big crowds to see this Renaissance wonder and to learn about its famous past. You can see it if you come to an islet of Ljujevac – that’s were Franciscan monastery once stood. People wanted to make a dedication to the monastery so they named the fortress after it. The construction started in 1540 after the fall of Skradin. It was a time when Venetians decided to strengthen the defense system of Šibenik because it was too weak to protect the town from outer attacks. Since the Šibenik port was one of the most important ones on the east coast of Adriatic Sea, St. Nicholas fortress was made to protect the city. It was included on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2017.
Barone Fortress
This fortress was built just after the St. John’s Fortress and before the Ottoman army came to the city during the Candia war. The beginning of the construction was when Šibenik defense commandant Cristoph Martin von Degenfield gave orders for its creating (the fortress was named after him). In its initial years, Barone fortress was just a little fortification (ridotto) in the middle of the town. It received its final form in 1659 during the leadership of general commander (providur) Antonio Bernard. Today, the premises of Barone fortress are used for conferences and gastro – cultural meetings where the traditional gastronomy of Šibenik region is presented.
St. Michael’s fortress
If you want to see magnificent archipelagos and Šibenik’s surrounding marvels of nature from the high vantage point, get ready to ascend the top of the St. Michael’s fortress. Through the history, St. Michael’s Fortress was a main point of the whole defense complex in Šibenik. The entire city was developed within its bastion walls and it was first mentioned on 25th of December 1066, as a residential place for the King Petar Krešimir the 4th. The fragments you see while observing its layout are mostly parts that were built during the late middle ages or early modern ages. Couple of years ago, Šibenik officials saw the opportunity and revitalized the fortress. So, today, you can enjoy the events on the summer stage surrounded by historic walls.
