Fort Bokar: Guardian of Dubrovnik's Western Gate

Fort Bokar, often called Zvjezdan, is a prominent landmark in Dubrovnik, famed as one of the oldest casemated fortresses in Europe. Constructed in the 15th century, beginning in 1461, under the guidance of Italian architect Michelozzo di Bartolomeo, its purpose was to defend the strategically vital Pile Gate. The fort as seen today was completed in 1570.Bokar Fortress is a two-story, almost perfectly cylindrical structure that juts out from the medieval stone walls. Part of the fort sits on arched supports on a detached rock, allowing seawater to flow beneath it, a feature still visible today. Throughout its history, Fort Bokar has been a key component in Dubrovnik's defense system.Today, Fort Bokar is open year-round and serves as a venue for performances during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. It also gained recognition for its appearance in seasons two and three of Game of Thrones. Visitors can explore the fortress, view cannons, and enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the city.