Old Town Novigrad

The Old Town of Novigrad on the Dobra River, located along the old Karolina road that leads from Karlovac to Gorski Kotar and further to the sea, is a testament to Croatia's rich history. This magnificent fortress, situated at the historical crossing over the Dobra River, is one of the key structures that defended the borders and protected the passage to the coast.

The greatest influence on Novigrad came from the Frankopan family, who owned it until 1671. Over the centuries, the fortress passed into the hands of various rulers and nobles – from General Herbst and the Knights of Malta to the landowners of Karlovac and Baron Zdenko Turković. In the 15th century, the burg was transformed into a Renaissance castle with new living spaces, galleries, and a courtyard, but due to the threat of Turkish invasions, it retained its defensive function.

The town has an elongated pentagonal layout with four semi-circular towers and a fifth, larger tower on the steepest cliff, with massive two-meter-thick walls. Access to the town was only possible through the main entrance on the southern wall, along a bridge that was later replaced by a stone ramp.

Unfortunately, World War II left its mark, as the fortress was burned down, and the valuable stone material began to disappear. Today, there is a park-forest surrounding the fortress, serving as a natural oasis in this historic area.

Experience history at the very place where once intersected trade routes, defense strategies, and the splendor of noble life – visit the Old Town of Novigrad on the Dobra!