Travel guide

Fortica Fortress, also known as Spagnola (Å panjola) is located over the northern part of Hvar town. Together with the city walls, which well preserved remains are still standing today, in the past has represented a central defensive Hvar fort. Its appearance was largely shaped in the 16th century, though its beginnings date back to the time of the Illyrians and the Byzantine Empire. The origins of today's fortification system were determined by Venetian decree on the construction in 1282, to be completed only in 1551, as evidenced by the engraved coat of arms on the southern door. This magnificent military building consist of a circular tower, ravelins, loopholes, guns, jail, corridors, and a chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptist, and in 1571 all this infrastructure saved many locals from Turkish attacks. Eight years later, lightning struck the gunpowder warehouse, causing a huge explosion and damage to Fortica fortress. In the 19th century, the Austrians rebuilt it.
Over time, the fortress lost its military significance, but it acquired more and more the tourist one, so in 1971 it was converted into a restaurant. Today its visitors, leaded by brown signs and numerous steps, can see there a collection of amphorae and artifacts from ancient times and Middle Ages, as well as a unique panoramic view to the city of Hvar and Paklina islands.