Klis Fortress: A Medieval Jewel With WWII Secrets in Croatia

#croatianislands #klisfortress, perched high above Split, is one of Croatia’s most fascinating historical sites. Known as the “key to Dalmatia”, this medieval stronghold offers not only panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea but also a journey through centuries of history—from ancient battles to its role in World War II. #croatia 🛡 A bit of history The fortress dates back over 2,000 years, originally used by the Illyrians before becoming a vital defensive position during the Roman and Ottoman periods. Its strategic location allowed it to guard the valley below, earning it the nickname “The Gateway to Dalmatia”. During World War II, the fortress and its surrounding hills were used as defensive positions and shelters. You can still explore some of the WWII bunkers near the fortress, adding another layer of history to this incredible site. 🎟 Entry fee: Around €10 per adult. It includes access to the main fortress complex and its small but fascinating museum. 📸 Best time to visit ✔️ Visit in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and softer light for photography. ✔️ Alternatively, go in the late afternoon to watch the sun dip behind the mountains and light up the Adriatic Sea. 🚗 How to get there Klis Fortress is only a 20-minute drive from Split, making it a perfect half-day trip. Renting a car through Trip.com made the journey easy and let me stop at small villages along the way. 🌟 Why visit? Between its medieval stone walls, breathtaking views, and haunting WWII bunkers, Klis feels like a place where history comes alive. It’s also famous as a filming location for Game of Thrones (Meereen fans, take note!). 📌 Tip: Bring comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs and rocky paths. And don’t forget to explore the nearby village of Klis for a taste of local cuisine like pasticada or spit-roasted lamb.