Fort Lovrijenac, Dubrovnik (must see)

Fort Lovrijenac, often called the “Gibraltar of Dubrovnik,” is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Rising dramatically from a 37-meter-high cliff just outside the western walls, the fortress was built in the early 11th century as a defensive stronghold against Venetian ambitions. Local legend tells that the Venetians once planned to construct their own fort on this very spot, but Dubrovnik’s citizens preempted them by completing Lovrijenac in record time. Since then, it has stood as a symbol of the city’s independence and resilience.

The triangular fort, with walls as thick as 12 meters on the seaward side and just 60 centimeters on the landward side, reflects its strategic purpose. Its position controlled both land and sea approaches to the city, making it nearly impossible for enemies to penetrate Dubrovnik’s defenses. Above the entrance is the carved Latin motto Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro-“Freedom is not sold for all the gold in the world”-a clear statement of the city’s values and determination to remain free.

Today, Fort Lovrijenac is not only a historical monument but also a cultural stage. Its dramatic setting has hosted countless performances of Shakespeare’s Hamlet during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, with the fortress itself serving as a natural backdrop. Fans of modern pop culture will also recognize it as a filming location for the television series Game of Thrones, where it doubled as the Red Keep in King’s Landing.

For visitors, the fort offers sweeping views over the Adriatic Sea, the city walls, and the red-tiled roofs of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Exploring its stone terraces and vaulted chambers provides a glimpse into the city’s military past, while the vantage point rewards with some of the best panoramas in Dubrovnik.

*** Game of Thrones Tour ***
Fort Lovrijenac also gained fame as the recognizable Red Keep double in King’s Landing, frequently appearing in Season 2 and Season 3 of Game of Thrones. In particular, it was the location for King Joffrey’s naming ceremony in Season 2, Episode 1, ‘The North Remembers’, where a celebratory tournament was held.

Later in the same episode, the Red Keep is where Cersei confronts Littlefinger, and he tells her ‘Knowledge is power’ to which she exclaims: ''Power is power.'' It is also the destination where King Joffrey is headed after being attacked at Pile Gate and where Tyrion slaps him across the face.