Fort Lovrijenac

The Lovrijenac fort

The Dubrovnik audio-guided tour presents you with the Lovrijenac fort, perched on its rock more than thirty-seven metres above the water, outside the ramparts of the old town.

The Gibraltar of Dubrovnik

Legend has it that it took the inhabitants only three months to raise this fort in 1018. A key fortress of the defence, it offered a clear view over the sea to the south and watched the road to the north-west, to repel any invasion, notably that of the Venetian fleets that coveted the city. Nicknamed the "Gibraltar of Dubrovnik", it bears at its entrance a Latin inscription whose translation states: "Freedom is not sold, even for all the treasures of the world", in perfect agreement with the inhabitants' attachment to their independence. Today empty of garrison, this imposing triangular edifice hosts the performances of the Dubrovnik summer festival as well as private events.

What there is to see

The Lovrijenac fort impresses with its vertiginous position and its powerful walls, which offer spectacular views over the sea and the old town. Its inscription on freedom sums up the spirit of the former Republic of Ragusa. The setting of the summer festival, it also charms lovers of panoramas and enthusiasts of military history.

Practical information

The Lovrijenac fort stands on a rock to the west of the old town of Dubrovnik, outside the ramparts. It can be visited according to hours to be checked on site; the access is by a staircase, to be taken into account according to your mobility.

Why is the fort nicknamed the "Gibraltar of Dubrovnik"?

For its dominant and defensive position on a rock of more than thirty-seven metres, which made it a lock of the city.

What does the inscription at the entrance of the fort say?

"Freedom is not sold, even for all the treasures of the world", in echo of Dubrovnik's attachment to its independence.