Fortress of San Giovanni

The Fortress of St. John, also known as Mulo Tower, is one of the most imposing and significant defensive structures in Dubrovnik. Located on the southeastern side of the city’s old port, the fortress was built to protect the entrance of the port from enemy attacks and pirate raids, serving as the main bulwark of Dubrovnik’s maritime defense system. The construction of the first fortification began around 1346, a period when Dubrovnik, known then as the Republic of Ragusa, was fortifying its port to safeguard itself from external threats. Throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, the fortress underwent numerous modifications and expansions, gradually becoming a more complex and robust structure. A crucial moment in the fortress’s history was the merger, in 1552, with the nearby Gundulić Fortress, designed by architect Paskoje Miličević. This expansion project, completed in 1557, solidified the defensive function of the fortress, making it a key element of the city’s fortification system. The fortress’s structure is particularly interesting for its innovative design, combining elements of medieval and Renaissance military architecture. The side facing the sea features rounded and sloping walls to better resist attacks, while the side overlooking the port has vertical and flat walls. This configuration allows the fortress to dominate both the maritime and land access, making it extremely effective in its defense role. During periods of conflict, such as the war against pirates and sieges, the inhabitants of Dubrovnik used heavy chains to close the entrance of the port between St. John’s Fortress and Kase Pier, preventing enemy ships from entering. This defensive tactic proved crucial in maintaining the port’s security and, consequently, that of the city itself. On the ground floor of the fortress is the Dubrovnik Aquarium, managed by the Institute for Marine and Coastal Research of the University of Dubrovnik. This aquarium showcases a wide range of Adriatic marine species, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the region’s marine biodiversity. On the upper floors of the fortress is the Maritime Museum of Dubrovnik, which preserves and exhibits a rich collection of artifacts that tell the city’s long and fascinating maritime history. The museum includes ship models, navigation instruments, ancient maps, and paintings that illustrate Dubrovnik’s golden ages of navigation and maritime trade. This museum not only celebrates the city’s glorious past as a maritime power, but also educates visitors on the importance of navigation and trade in the city’s history and development. Another attraction within the fortress is the studio of the painter Đuro Pulitika, located in a small vaulted room. This space not only showcases Pulitika’s works, but also hosts temporary exhibitions of local artists, keeping the city’s artistic and cultural tradition alive. St. John’s Fortress is easily accessible and offers a spectacular panoramic view of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. Its strategic location and imposing structure make it a must-visit for those exploring Dubrovnik, offering a unique experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty.