Gazing up at Bokar Fortress, have you ever wondered about its unusual name? Bokar, or Zvjezdan as it’s sometimes called, meaning “starry,” perhaps hints at the breathtaking views it offers of the Adriatic Sea. Perched atop a steep cliff on Dubrovnik’s western city walls, Bokar Fortress stands as a proud sentinel, guarding the city’s Pile Gate. Designed by the Florentine architect Michelozzo di Bartolomeo Michelozzi, Bokar Fortress is no ordinary medieval structure. It’s a semicircular, two-story marvel, considered one of the oldest casemented forts in Europe. Construction began in 1461, with cannons already being tested from its heights by 1463. Yet, the fortress wasn’t fully completed until 1570, after much debate about its necessity. Imagine the discussions that must have taken place within these walls. Today, Bokar Fortress isn’t just a historical monument. It’s a vibrant venue for performances during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Inside, you’ll find a display of cannons, remnants of its defensive past, alongside a unique collection of precious stones. Bokar Fortress is more than just a fortress. It’s a testament to Dubrovnik’s rich history, a blend of military might and artistic beauty. As you walk along the City Walls and reach Bokar, take a moment to appreciate its unique design and the stunning views it commands. It’s a true gem of Dubrovnik, a place where history and art converge under the starry sky.
Sv. Martin
“A church tucked away in a guardhouse?” you might ask. Yes, right here, before the grand Golden Gate of Diocletian’s