# Starigrad Fortress (Fortica)

- **Country:** Croatia
- **Notes:** Throughout the 16. century (1534., 1559., 1566., 1571.-1573., 1586.) the fortress Starigrad was reinforced several times due to a growing danger of Turkish attacks. Major repair works were done during the Kandian war (1654.-1669.) By the end of the century Omiš is not anymore in Venetian – Turkish frontier area and with the spreading of free territory the strategic importance of this fortress decreases.
- **Year Built:** 15th century
- **Castle Type:** Fortress
- **Location Text:** Omiš, Split-Dalmatia County

Starigrad Fortress, locally known as Fortica, is a historic military structure situated on a steep ridge approximately 262 meters above sea level near the town of Omiš in Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia. Constructed during the 15th century by the Kingdom of Croatia, this limestone fortification was erected as a critical defensive measure during the Croatian-Ottoman wars. Its primary historical significance lies in its role as a refuge for the local population and a strategic stronghold designed to resist Ottoman incursions. The fortress leverages its dramatic elevation as its main defensive asset, making it a rudimentary yet effective barrier against invaders approaching from below.

The architectural design features thick limestone walls enclosing an inner bailey that is naturally divided into two distinct levels due to the rocky terrain. A two-storey square tower stands at the highest point, serving simultaneously as a keep and a lookout post, while a simple bastion protects the approach path and ridge line at the opposite end. The narrow entrance gateway is further secured by an outer barbican defending the gorge below. Access between the two internal levels is provided by a small stone stairway, originally protected by its own wall and gate. This layout allowed defenders to strategically fall back to higher ground if the lower sections were compromised during an attack.

Today, Starigrad Fortress remains a prominent landmark overlooking Omiš, representing the region's turbulent medieval history and resilience against foreign expansion. Although specific details regarding its current ownership or modern restoration status are not extensively documented in available records, the structure's enduring presence highlights the ingenuity of 15th-century military engineering in Dalmatia. The site continues to offer visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing how natural topography was integrated with man-made defenses like bastions and barbicans to create a formidable sanctuary for the people of Omiš during times of war.

![Photo of Starigrad Fortress (Fortica)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/75/Omis_fortice_Starigrad.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starigrad_Fortress_(Fortica) (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)