Hotels near Fort Lovrijenac

Perched on a 37-metre-high sea cliff just outside the western walls, Fort Lovrijenac (St. Lawrence Fortress) has guarded Dubrovnik's seaward approach since the 11th century. The inscription above its entrance reads "Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro" - Freedom is not sold for all the gold in the world - a motto that captures the defiant spirit of the former Republic of Ragusa. The fort's walls are up to 12 metres thick on the seaward side, tapering to just 60 cm facing the city, so that Dubrovnik could destroy it if the fortress ever fell to an enemy.

Today the fort serves as a performance venue for the Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July-August), when it transforms into a dramatic open-air theatre. Game of Thrones fans will recognise it as the Red Keep. The views from the upper terraces are spectacular - looking back across the old port, the city walls, and out to the open Adriatic. Entry is included with the city walls ticket, so plan to visit both on the same day.

Pro Tip: Visit Fort Lovrijenac in the late afternoon when the light is golden and the cruise ship crowds have thinned. If you are visiting during the Summer Festival (July 10 - August 25), book tickets for an evening performance inside the fort - it is one of the most atmospheric theatre experiences in Europe.