Lovrijenac Fortress
Dubrovnik, Croatia · Landmark
About Lovrijenac Fortress
Lovrijenac Fortress, often dubbed Dubrovnik's Gibraltar, is an imposing medieval bastion perched atop a 37-meter-high cliff just outside the western city walls. Built to defend the Republic of Ragusa against Venetian invasion, this coastal fortress has safeguarded the city for centuries. Today, it is world-famous for its sweeping views of the Old Town and its starring role as the Red Keep in Game of Thrones.
Don't miss
- Stand on the highest seaward terrace to take in panoramic views of Dubrovnik's stone walls, the Adriatic Sea, and Fort Bokar.
- Inspect the ancient cannons and the famous Latin inscription above the entrance that declares freedom cannot be sold for all the gold in the world.
- Wander through the multi-tiered interior courtyard that frequently doubles as an atmospheric open-air stage for theatrical performances.
- Explore the iconic filming spots used for tournament scenes and royal dialogues in the Game of Thrones television series.
Plan your visit
Late afternoon or early evening is ideal because the stone steps cool down and the golden hour sunlight illuminates the Old Town beautifully.
Admission requires a paid ticket, but entry is typically included with the Dubrovnik City Walls ticket or the Dubrovnik Pass. Check your existing city passes before purchasing a standalone ticket at the entrance.
From the Pile Gate of the Old Town, walk down toward the small harbor at Kolorina Bay and follow the marked stone staircase leading up the hill.
Tips for visiting
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as you must climb around 200 uneven stone steps to reach the entrance.
- Keep your Dubrovnik City Walls ticket or Dubrovnik Pass handy, as showing it will allow you to enter without buying a separate ticket.
- Carry plenty of drinking water with you because there are no shops or cafes located within the fortress itself.
- Visit right before sunset to capture spectacular golden photos of Dubrovnik's terracotta rooftops and the surrounding sea.
- Check performance schedules during the summer Dubrovnik Summer Festival, as parts of the fortress may close early for rehearsals and plays.
Lovrijenac Fortress FAQ
Is Lovrijenac Fortress accessible for wheelchair users or strollers?
Unfortunately, the fortress is not accessible for visitors with limited mobility or wheelchairs. Reaching the site requires climbing roughly 200 steep stone steps without an elevator. Inside the fort, visitors must navigate additional narrow and uneven stone stairs.
Is Lovrijenac included with the Dubrovnik Pass?
Yes, entrance to Fort Lovrijenac is covered by both the official Dubrovnik Pass and the standard Dubrovnik City Walls ticket. Just be sure to retain your ticket receipt or digital QR code to scan at the gate. Visiting both attractions on the same ticket provides great value.
Which Game of Thrones scenes were filmed at Fort Lovrijenac?
Fort Lovrijenac famously represented the Red Keep in King's Landing throughout multiple seasons. It served as the setting for King Joffrey's name day tournament and the intense 'power is power' exchange between Cersei and Littlefinger. The bay directly below the fortress was also used as Blackwater Bay during the gold cloaks' raid.
Are there restrooms and dining facilities inside the fortress?
Basic public restrooms are available on-site for visitors, but there are no restaurants or concession stands inside. It is best to purchase drinks and snacks at Pile Bay before heading up the stairs. You will find a wide variety of dining spots back down around the Old Town.
More things to do in Dubrovnik
Walk the City Walls Landmark
Stroll the iconic two-kilometer ramparts surrounding the Old Town for breathtaking panoramas over terracotta rooftops and the open sea.
Stradun Neighborhood
Walk the limestone-paved main pedestrian street filled with historic facades, buzzing cafes, and street performers.
Lokrum Island Nature
Take a short ferry ride to this nature reserve boasting wandering peacocks, botanical gardens, and the saltwater Dead Sea pool.
Mount Srd Cable Car Activity
Ride high above the city to enjoy unforgettable sunset views and explore the historic Homeland War Museum.
Sea Kayaking to Betina Cave Activity
Paddle along the dramatic coastal cliffs and swim into a secluded beach cave only accessible from the water.
Rector's Palace Museum
Visit this Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece that once served as the seat of government and now showcases cultural artifacts.
Buza Bar Nightlife
Sip a cold drink perched directly on the cliffside rocks outside the city walls while listening to the crashing waves.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: fjaka, adrimarie on Pixabay.