Fortresses of Herceg Novi
Massive silent, but vivid witnesses of rich history and culture and significant geo- strategic position of Herceg Novi are its fortresses that were build during the centuries or the development of this town. If the visitor wants to know more about the past of Herceg Novi then he or she should meet its fortresses. Each fortress in Herceg Novi symbolizes an era of foreign rulers of the city in different historic period. Spagnola is Spanish fortress, Kanli Kula was made by Turks, Forte Mare dating from Middle Ages was reconstucted by Turks and Venetians…
Spagnola – Spanish Fortress is located on one of the high hills in Herceg Novi, at 170 meters above sea level. The hill on the top of which the fortress was built is called Bajer.
The fortress is located in the northeastern part of the Old Town of Herceg Novi, near the main highway along the coast and which connects many cities in Greece, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Croatia.
Outside the bastion looks very impressive and although there is almost nothing left inside the fortress, it is definitely worth a visit. In addition to the amazing view of the surroundings, the fortress can offer a kind of journey into the past. Here you can still see ancient barracks, shooting ranges and various auxiliary facilities, touch the mighty walls and military installations that are currently in the power of nature (ivy, grass and trees) and disappear before our eyes, but nevertheless retain the rebellious spirit of old times.
The owners of the city in just one year (1538-1539) managed to found this fortress (1538) and began to build, and the final and inaccessible form was created by the Ottoman Empire.
Forte Mare – The Sea fortress is located on the rocks in the southern part of the old town of Herceg Novi near the main city port of Herceg Novi, along the coast of the Bay of Kotor. Legend says that the first stone was laid here in the late 14th century by the Bosnian king Tvrtko to protect the city from the attacks from the sea.
The monument to the king is located on the promenade opposite the fortress. The fortress has been renovated many times and is very different from its original appearance. Until the 18th century, the fortress was called a Jaka kula or ,, Kula Abaspaše”. In 1833, the fortress was reconstructed and it still looks like that today with many secret passages and steps.
In 1952 a theater and an entrance for tourists were built on the territory of the fortress. Later, concerts of various stars began to be held. Now, fortress is a famous tourist attraction. From the upper floor there is a beautiful panoramic view of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
The Sea fortress is a symbol of the city of Herceg Novi and a historical landmark of Montenegro.
Kanli kula fortress is a fortress from the Turkish period. Today, it has been turned into an open stage
and tourist attraction . Especially interesting is the cistern that has been turned into a prison cell with numerous drawings on the walls.