Fort Lovrijenac, Dalmatia Travel Guide

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Explore Fort Lovrijenac: Dubrovnik's iconic fortress with stunning views, rich history, and a Game of Thrones connection.

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Fort Lovrijenac

Perched high on a rocky cliff overlooking the Adriatic, Fort Lovrijenac, also known as St. Lawrence Fortress, is a historic fortress that has defended Dubrovnik for centuries. Its imposing structure and strategic location offer stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich past.

A brief summary to Fort Lovrijenac

Ul. od Tabakarije 29, Dubrovnik, 20000, HR
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Monday 8 am-7 pm
Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
Wednesday 8 am-7:30 pm
Thursday 8 am-7 pm
Friday 8 am-7 pm
Saturday 8 am-7 pm
Sunday 8 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Lovrijenac.

Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steps to climb to reach the fortress.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
A ticket to the Dubrovnik City Walls includes admission to Fort Lovrijenac, making it a worthwhile option if you plan to see both.
Check the schedule for performances of Hamlet during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival for a unique cultural experience.
Bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Dubrovnik's Old Town and the Adriatic Sea.

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Explore Fort Lovrijenac on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fort Lovrijenac, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Pile Gate, the main entrance to Dubrovnik's Old Town, head west, keeping the city walls to your right. Follow the path as it ascends gradually. The walk to the entrance of Fort Lovrijenac is short but steep, taking approximately 5-10 minutes. There are stairs involved. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

Several buses stop near Pile Gate, the closest point to Fort Lovrijenac. From Dubrovnik Port (Gruž), take bus number 1A, 1B, or 3 to Pile Gate. From Pile Gate, follow the walking directions. A single bus fare costs approximately €1.33 - €2.65.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Dubrovnik. A taxi from Dubrovnik Port (Gruž) to Pile Gate, the entrance to the Old Town, takes about 7 minutes. From Pile Gate, follow the walking directions. The taxi fare is estimated to be €12-€15.

Discover more about Fort Lovrijenac

Fort Lovrijenac, or St. Lawrence Fortress, is a dramatic and historically significant site just outside Dubrovnik's western walls. Standing 37 meters above sea level on a steep cliff, it has been a crucial defensive point for the city for centuries. The fortress is thought to have originated as early as 1018, with the first official mention dating back to 1301. Legend says that the people of Dubrovnik built it in just three months to thwart Venetian plans to construct their own fort on the site.Throughout its history, Fort Lovrijenac has been reconstructed and upgraded, especially in the 15th and 16th centuries. It suffered damage in the 1667 earthquake but was subsequently repaired. The fort's walls facing the sea are almost 12 meters thick, while those facing the city are much thinner, a strategic design to prevent internal rebellion. The inscription above the entrance, "Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro" ("Freedom is not sold for all the gold in the world"), reflects the fort's role in preserving Dubrovnik's independence.Today, Fort Lovrijenac is a major tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of Dubrovnik's Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. It's also a popular venue for theatrical performances, most notably Shakespeare's Hamlet, during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Game of Thrones fans will recognize the fort as the Red Keep in King's Landing, adding to its allure. A visit involves climbing approximately 200 steps, but the reward is well worth the effort.