Fortica Fortress — Attraction in Grad Hvar

Tvrđava Fortica, also known as the Fortica Fortress or Španjol (Spanish Fortress), is located near Stari Grad on the Croatian island of Hvar. This fortress has both historical and cultural significance. Here is a review of Tvrđava Fortica from different perspectives:

Positives

Historical significance: The fortress was built in the 16th century to protect the town from Ottoman attacks, making it an important piece of the region's history and architecture.

Stunning views: The Fortica's hilltop location offers impressive panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, sea, and the town of Stari Grad. These views make the fortress a great destination for tourists and photographers.

Architectural features: The construction displays elements of Renaissance architecture and is a fine example of military engineering of its time. The walls and towers are well preserved and offer a glimpse into times gone by.

Accessibility to nature:

To get to the Fortica, visitors often have to tackle an uphill climb, which not only provides a bit of physical activity but also takes you through the surrounding nature, including Mediterranean vegetation.

Cultural events:

The fortress is sometimes the site of cultural events and festivals, making it a vibrant part of social life in Stari Grad.

Negatives

Accessibility:

The path to the Fortica can be steep and may not be suitable for people with limited mobility. This could deter some potential visitors from visiting the fortress.

Weather dependence:

In bad weather or on hot summer days, visiting the fortress can become uncomfortable due to exposure to the sun or slippery paths after rainfall.

Maintenance needs: Like many historical sites, Fortica requires regular care and maintenance to maintain its structural integrity and protect its historical value.

Lack of information: Some visitors may wish for more information (e.g. more signs or guided tours) to learn more about the history and function of the fort.

Conclusion Tvrđava Fortica is a fascinating historical landmark on Hvar that offers both historical and scenic value. With its hilltop location, it rewards guests with spectacular views and an interesting story from an important period in European history. Despite certain challenges with accessibility and maintenance, it remains a recommended attraction for travelers interested in cultural history and seeking natural...

A lovely (can be challenging) walk up the hillside to get to the lovely fortress (also available to drive and park) - but I would recommend walking in the morning when the sun isn't at its hottest. The breathtaking views are certainly worth the €10ea entrance fee. We were also pleasantly surprised by the café being within the fortress, selling affordable typical café products (we're used to having to pay extortionate prices for café in public attractions in the UK so we were encouraged to see that not all attractions around the world are the same). They have free toilets available here too. Take the fortress at your own pace, enjoy the light breeze and shady spots throughout, and the various angles of the spectacular views of Hvar's port which can only really be appreciated from this height. The majority of the fortress is stair based so this would not be suitable for those who struggle with stairs. If there was more of an interactive experience and a few extra signs at the top of the fortress to see what you're looking out on would make it 5* in our opinion. Overall a very pleasant adventure, it felt good to explore some...

I have had a strange experience going to the castle today. Although the views and the castle was very aesthetic to visit. However on the way out there was an occurrence with two waiters at the restaurant. A couple of the children that were visiting with our family were dressed without tops on as the person at the ticket box didn’t tell us we had to wear tops. When the waiter saw us she decided to act in a disrespectful manner and talked to the elderly with great means of disrespect and really made us contemplate whether it was worth others visiting without knowing our experience when visiting the castle is paying their wages. After our experience they don’t deserve a single penny they are earning as these to individuals working on the 16/07/24 should be fired as they treated their customers with opprobrium and no worth. I can’t emphasise enough how badly the women treated us and should be scrutinised because of their actions. I hope this reaches to many of the next families and individuals that are thinking on visiting this castle because to be treated in that way is disgusting. Thank you...