Magnificent Klis Fortress, once home to several Croatian Kings is an easy trip from Split. The medieval fortress situated above the village of Klis, lies in the Dalmatia region of Croatia.
Sitting perched on steep cliffs between the mountains of Mosor and Kozjak, the fortress enjoyed a strategic position. Over its lengthy history, the fortress thwarted attacks and invasions and played a vital role in defending Dalmatia.
Imposing and inaccessible on three sides, the fortress is built on a limestone ridge and overlooks Split, Salona and Solin, offering spectacular views.
At an altitude of 360 metres with a long and narrow form, you can wander around the fortifications unencumbered.
Visit on a day trip from Split, or include a stop here as part of your Croatia Itinerary and you won’t be disappointed.
Read on to find out how to visit Klis Fortress and discover more about this popular Game of Thrones filming location.
HISTORY OF FORTRESS KLIS
Klis’ history is long and complicated, stretching back to the 2nd century BC, with the building of a fort by the Illyrian tribe Dalmatae. After being taken by the Romans it became the residence of Croatian Duke Trpimir under Roman Empire rule.
After resisting attacks by the Avars, Slavs and Turks of the Ottoman Empire, the fortress finally fell to the Venetians.
When you visit the Armory in the inner section of the fortress, you can explore the history in depth via highly informative panels.
FORTRESS KLIS GAME OF THRONES FILM LOCATION
Before we go any further, I have to mention the extremely popular TV series Game of Thrones. For fans of the show, Klis Fortress was used to film certain key scenes.
The fictional city of Meereen was placed inside the walls and was where Daenerys Targaryen and her army came to free the slaves.
There is an interactive devise on one walkway where you can get your picture taken with flying dragons. Plus check out photos from the show in the GOT exhibition located in the upper part of the fortress.
HIGHLIGHTS OF FORTRESS KLIS
FIRST GATE OR MAIN ENTRANCE
The entrance into the fortress was built by the Venetians at the end of the 17th century, and is where the ticket office is located. From here the stony path winds upwards to the second entrance.
SECOND GATE
During the Middle Ages, this was the main entrance to Klis and has been rebuilt several times during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Austrians are responsible for its final look which includes a classical style shaped portal.
TOWER OPRAH
This medieval tower is the western part of the fortress’s most important defensive stronghold. From here it’s possible to see all three parts of the fortress. It was damaged in the siege of 1648, and finally restored by the Austrians.
ARTILLERY BARRACKS
Built by the Austrians in the 19th century to house artillerymen. Opposite the barracks in the Mezzo is a large canon and fabulous view over the walls.
THIRD GATE
At the far end of the fortress is the third gate, accessed via a set of stone steps. This is the most significant part of the fort, standing high above other defensive walls.
ARMORY
There is an interesting exhibition of weaponry to look at inside, together with replicas of Uskoks uniforms. Information wall plaques illustrate the fort throughout historical periods.
ST. VID’S CHURCH
This simple octagonal roof church was converted into a mosque during Turkish occupation. Located in the upper section of the fortress, the views from here of the sprawling city below are wonderful.
Of particular note are an embellished 17th century Baroque basin and a stone plaque above the church entrance. A carved inscription in Latin, reads “What faith has built, faith will preserve”.
Shield yourself from the heat of the day inside and check out the simple interior of the church dedicated to Saint Vitus (Sv Vid).
MAGGIORE’S POSITION
The position was smaller up until 1670 when the space was widened with artillery openings. Venetians built apartments in the central part which were destroyed by the Austrians.
SPERUN’S POSITION
You get incredible views from Serun position, which contains the most protruding eastern wing. The fortress was last used for military purposes in WWII, when anti-aircraft guns were positioned here.
SMALL MUSEUM
A small museum housed in the former Croatian prince’s residence, exhibits fragments of stone used in construction. They are inscribed and worth a quick look if you have time.
THE INCREDIBLE VIEWS AROUND THE FORTRESS
Here are some photos to showcase the area around this magnificent fortress.
HOW TO GET TO KLIS FORTRESS FROM SPLIT
Reaching the fortress is easy, as the village of Klis is only about 15 km north of Split. You have several options to visit the fortress of Klis:
- Split to Klis Fortress By Car: The easiest route is to head towards Solin, and park for free in the car park at the bottom of the hill. Travel time is roughly 25 minutes, and this is how we arrived. It is only a few minutes walk up to the main entrance from here.
- Local Bus To Klis Fortress From Split: Split Bus Station is located in the center of Split, next to the city port and the railway station. A few bus lines run every day multiple times during the summer season.
Check the schedule for Bus Station Split and Promet Split for up to date timings. Bear in mind that the journey may include several stops enroute. The tourist information office will be able to help with bus journeys.
KLIS FORTRESS ENTRANCE FEE
Klis fortress tickets are priced at 75 Kuna (adults) and 20 kuna (Child) as of 2022, and are purchased from the ticket booth at the entrance. Your ticket price includes:
- a self-guided tour of the fortress
- a visit to the Interpretation Centre at Mejdan Square
- entry to Stella Croatica, which includes the Olive Museum and is located 6 minutes away at Mihovilovici 21A, 21231 Klis.
WHAT ARE KLIS FORTRESS HOURS FOR VISITING?
At the time of writing, opening hours are every day from from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Check up to date times before your visit.
PRACTICALITIES AND KLIS FAQ’S
1. What name is the fortress known by?
The Croatian name for the fortress is Tvrdava Klis or Klis Tvrdava, but it is also known by tourists as Klis Fortress Game of Thrones and Klis Castle.
2. Is Klis Fortress worth visiting?
Absolutely! Whether you are a Game of Thrones fan or not, you will thoroughly enjoy your visit. We found the location, history and views totally worth the ticket price. There are informative plaques and exhibits to explain the extensive period of history, so a self-guided tour works well. Plus, those views are stunning!
3. Can anyone visit the Fortress?
Yes, anyone with an average level of fitness will be fine as there are a lot of steep steps to climb.
4. How long should you allow for your trip?
We recommend 1-2 hours for your visit, which can be combined with a trip to view the Roman ruins of Salona, just outside Solin. Part of an archaeological park, the ruins are extensive, and include an Amphitheatre at the northwestern end of the park.
5. Is there a café at the Fortress?
No, which was a big disappointment and a missed opportunity as visitors would really appreciate somewhere to sit and have a coffee in such fantastic surroundings.
If you do want to get something to eat, there is a Studenac Market by the car park, together with a coffee bar (Belfast Klis) and Caffe – pizzeria bar Kambia.
6. Are there toilets at Klis?
There was a toilet on the ground floor I think, but it wasn’t in great condition when we visited.
7. Any other tips for our visit?
- If you visit during summer months, aim to arrive in the morning. There is little shade as you walk around and it can get very hot.
- Bring a bottle of water with you.
- Enjoy an authentic lunch at Restoran Perlica, an air-conditioned restaurant, with summer garden and terrace.
- For those with mobility issues, enjoy a virtual tour of the fortress.
Are you inspired to explore this fortress close to Split? If you have any questions about the visit please leave a comment below.
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