Embedded Files
Architectural Landmarks
Architectural Landmarks
Vis Island, one of the hidden gems of the Adriatic Sea, boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, as evidenced by its many architectural landmarks. Its strategic location has attracted various civilizations over the centuries – from the Romans, Venetians, Austrians, and British to the Italians – each leaving a profound mark on the island. Every fortress, church, and historical building on Vis tells its own story of the past, of wars, defense, and the lives of its inhabitants.
The diverse architectural styles and historical contexts represented by these landmarks offer a true treasure trove for visitors seeking not only natural beauty but also the layered history that shapes the identity of this unique island.
Fortica, also known as Fort George III or St. George’s Fortress, is the largest and most famous fortress on Vis Island, built in 1813 by the British Royal Navy during the Napoleonic Wars. It was named after the British King George III and constructed under the command of George Duncan Robertson. The fortress was part of a broader defense system that included Forts Wellington, Host, Bentich, and Robertson, aiming to protect the island and the Bay of Vis from French and Russian attacks.
Strategically positioned on a hill above the town of Vis, Fortica served a military purpose for over a century. The structure is surrounded by a defensive trench and features several courtyards, artillery openings, loopholes, and an outer wall with classic British architectural elements from that era.
After years of abandonment, the fortress was renovated in 2013 and transformed into a cultural and tourist venue. Today, it houses a restaurant, lounge bar, garden, and a small museum. From its rooftop terrace, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Vis Bay, the surrounding islands, and spectacular sunsets.
Access is available by car or on foot (approximately 20 minutes’ walk from the center of Vis, past Hotel Issa).
Fortica, poznata i kao Tvrđava Georgea III. ili Tvrđava sv. Jurja
The fortress was built in the early 19th century, most likely after 1815, in honor of the victory of Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, at the Battle of Waterloo. It is believed that the construction was completed shortly before the British withdrew from Vis.
The structure was built of massive stone, with round or angular walls, loopholes, and defensive walls. Inside were thick walls, transverse partitions, and remnants of vaulted ceilings, now bricked over. It was part of the British defense system, along with other fortifications such as Fort George (Fortica) and Terjun Tower (Bentinck).
During the naval Battle of Vis in 1866, the fortress played a role in the defense but was also targeted by the Italian navy, which shelled the coastal fortifications, including Wellington, during their approach.
Today, only ruins of the building remain, and it can only be viewed from the outside. It is located on the hill called Jurjevo Brdo, east of the entrance to Vis Bay, on the eastern side of Vis Island. A hiking trail leads to the fortress, often included as part of a tour toward Fortica (Fort George). The site offers a stunning panoramic view of Vis Bay, the surrounding sea, and nearby fortresses, giving visitors insight into the British defense system of the time.
Wellington Fortress
Robertson Fortress
Robertson Fortress
Robertson Fortress was built in the same period as Bentinck, between 1811 and 1815, during the British occupation of Vis Island, which served as a strategic naval outpost in the Adriatic Sea. It is located between Fortica (Fort George) and Terjun, close to the important eastern entrance to Vis Bay.
The fortress was modeled after Martello towers – typical British coastal fortifications used for artillery defense. It was constructed from massive stone, with thick defensive walls, small cannon openings, and observation points.
Together with Fort George and Bentinck, Robertson formed part of a defensive belt protecting the island from Napoleonic and other maritime threats. Today, the remaining walls and defensive elements offer insight into the extensive and strategically designed British defense system on Vis.
Batarija Fortress, also known as Our Lady’s Fortress, was built in 1830 by the Austrian administration in the center of Vis Bay. It served as the main defensive stronghold of the town of Vis due to its strategic coastal position.
During the Battle of Vis in 1866, Batarija played a significant role: two Italian warships attempted to enter the bay and land troops, but were repelled by artillery fire from this very fortress. It is the only fort on Vis that actively participated in artillery combat during the battle.
The fortress was built in a classic defensive style, with massive walls, a protruding central bastion, a walled courtyard with cisterns, underground storage rooms, and dungeons. In peacetime, it served as a military barracks, and later as a hospital and shelter, as evidenced by later modifications to the window openings.
Today, the fortress houses the rich Archaeological Museum of Vis Island, and its courtyard hosts summer concerts, theatrical performances, and other cultural events. It is accessible on foot from the center of Vis in about 10–15 minutes.
Batarija Fortress
The islet of Host measures only 120 meters in length and 36 meters in width, but it holds a rich historical story. In 1811, British commander Sir William Hoste built an artillery station on the island as part of the defense line of Vis Bay, along with Fortica and Wellington. The island was strategically important due to its control of the harbor entrance.
In addition to its military function, Host also served as a quarantine station for ships and passengers, where they were screened for plague or other infectious diseases. In 1873, the military post was converted into a lighthouse, which housed lighthouse keepers for many years – initially from across the Austro-Hungarian Empire and later the local Siminiati family.
Today, Host is an exclusive private retreat – the lighthouse has been converted into a comfortable apartment with two bedrooms, a kitchen, a private terrace, and direct seaside access. It’s also ideal for honeymooners and private celebrations. The islet is reachable by boat from Vis in about 5 minutes.
Host Fortress, lighthouse at the entrance to Vis Bay
Perastijev Tower is the oldest known fortification in the Luka district (town of Vis), built in the early 17th century (1617) as a private defensive structure. It was constructed by Vicko of Perast and his family to protect the local population from potential enemies, primarily Ottoman attacks and pirates.
Vicko of Perast received official permission to build the tower in December 1616, and it was completed in 1617. He lived near the tower in the Luka settlement and died in 1622.
Architecturally, the tower is notable – its walls are divided by horizontal garlands, and it features cannon loopholes, angled corner watch openings, and rooftop acroteria (ornamental elements). Entry was located on the first floor via a wooden bridge that connected the tower to Vicko’s house. Its military equipment included small bronze cannons.
Today, the tower is privately owned and can only be viewed from the outside – the interior is not open to the public. Tour guides often highlight it as a scenic viewpoint along the coast that evokes the defensive atmosphere and architectural features of the town in past centuries.
Perastijev Tower (Perastijeva Kula)
Bentich Fortress is located south of Fortica, on a strategic point above Svitnja Bay, offering control over access to the eastern part of Vis Bay. It was built in the early 19th century during the British administration of Vis Island. The structure is a two-storey circular fort, characteristic of British military architecture of that period.
It was named after British General William Cavendish Bentinck, then commander of British forces in Sicily. Today, the fortress is also known as Terjun and stands as a symbol of the British military presence on the island. Although partially in ruins, it still stands out due to its architectural design and panoramic location, making it a compelling site for visitors and history enthusiasts alike.
Bentich Fortress (Terjun)
The Mladineo Tower dates back to the 17th century and is located in the village of Borovik, north of Komiža. It is a private defensive structure built by members of the Mladineo family, one of the more influential local families of the time.
The tower was constructed to protect the estate from potential raids by land or sea. Remnants of architectural features are still visible today, including door grooves, loopholes, and cannon openings. A distinctive feature of the tower is the cantilevered guardhouse positioned above one of its corners – a typical defensive element of that era. Though now in ruins, the tower offers valuable insight into the private defensive practices once common on Vis Island.
Mladineo Tower
Location: directly on the Komiža waterfront – the main seaside promenade above the sea.
Built in 1585 on the initiative of Venetian provveditore Ivan Grimani, the castle was partly financed by the state and mostly through taxes paid by Komiža fishermen, who made their living fishing near Trešjevac.
The purpose of the construction was to defend the settlement from pirates and Ottoman attacks. The solid, sloped walls widen at the base for better stability and defensive strength. The walls feature cannon openings, narrow loopholes, and multi-sided windows above the cornice. Above the distinctive entrance portal, a cross, coat of arms, and inscription mark the date of construction. On the northern and western walls, stone rings used for mooring sailboats are still visible, as part of the structure once extended directly into the sea.
Today, the castle houses the Fishermen’s Museum, showcasing original fishing tools, a replica of the traditional boat falkuša, nets, lanterns, and photographs of Komiža’s fishing heritage. In 1879, the building was purchased by the Municipality of Komiža and converted into an administrative facility, with a clock tower and light balconies added to its corners.
Visitors can tour the museum interior and enjoy views from the rooftop or promenade – the castle is open to tourists.
Grimaldi Castle (Kaštel Komuna, Komiža)
Mazzoleni Tower is located in the heart of the Komiža waterfront, among the historic buildings that shape the recognizable silhouette of the town. The fortress was built in the 17th or 18th century and is named after the Mazzoleni family, one of the more prominent landowning families during the Venetian era.
The tower’s design includes typical defensive elements such as thick walls, small openings, and a strategic position along the coast. Although only modest remains are visible today, the structure retains historical value and contributes to the character of Komiža’s old seafront. It reflects the urban need for self-defense during a time when coastal life was frequently threatened by attacks from the sea.
Manjarema Fortress was built in the 19th century, during the late Austrian or French rule. It is located on a hill above Komiža, at one of the strategic points offering a wide view of the town and surrounding sea.
Today, only faint ruins of the fortress remain, but they still bear witness to the former military importance of the site. Its position was ideal for monitoring the harbor and possible maritime approaches. Due to its elevated and peaceful surroundings, the location is now especially appealing to walkers, hikers, and lovers of scenic views.
Museums
Museums
Located in the town of Vis, inside the Batarija Fortress. The museum features a large collection of amphorae displayed in a unique way – stacked as they once were in the hold of a ship. It also houses the largest collection of Hellenistic artifacts in Croatia. An ethnographic section displays items that reflect traditional life on the island – fishing, viticulture, and everyday customs of the people of Vis.
Guided tours for groups are available upon request.
Opening hours (01 June–01 October): 10:00–13:00 / 17:00–20:00. Group visits can be arranged by appointment.
Address: Ul. Viški Boj 12, 21480, Vis, Hrvaška
Telefon: +385 21 711 729
Archaeological Museum of Vis – Amphora Collection
The Fishermen’s Museum is located in the Komuna Fortress, right on the Komiža waterfront. It houses a rich collection of original equipment used by the fishermen of Komiža, who were renowned for centuries as the most skilled and famous fishermen on the Adriatic. The exhibition also includes tools and artifacts related to the former fish-processing industry, which was once highly developed in Komiža.
A highlight of the museum is the replica of the famous Komiža boat “Gajeta Falkuša”. Guided tours are available for visitors.
Opening hours: 10:00–12:00 / 19:00–22:00
Address: Riva sv. Mikule 4, Komiža
Phone: +385 21 713 019
Falkuša – pride of Komiža’s fishermen
Falkuša was a unique fishing boat from Komiža – a gajeta about 9 meters long and just under 3 meters wide. It had a 9-meter mast, could carry a crew of six fishermen, and transport up to 8 tons of fish. Built exclusively from pine wood from the island of Svetac, considered the finest at the time.
Thanks to favorable winds, falkuše could reach Palagruža in just six hours, achieving speeds of up to 10 nautical miles per hour. The last original falkuša, Cicibela, was destroyed in a severe storm in August 1986. Fortunately, the tradition was revived – today, three newly built falkuše are used for tourism and cultural promotion.
Scale model of the Gajeta Falkuša
Ancient Monuments
Ancient Monuments
The ancient history of Dalmatia begins in the 4th century BC, with the island of Vis as its starting point. History enthusiasts can explore the remains of Issa, the largest Greek colony in the region, located on the Gradina hill near the town of Vis and in the Martvilo archaeological park. The town is also home to a 16th-century monastery, built above the ruins of an ancient theater on the Prirovo Peninsula.
Vis reveals even more of its classical heritage at Gospina Batarija – a former 19th-century fortress – which houses an archaeological collection featuring the finest bronze head of the goddess Artemis. The Issa goddess head is an original Greek artwork dating from the late 4th or early 3rd century BC. Alongside the Lošinj Apoxyomenos, Artemis ranks among the most important ancient finds in Croatia.
For guided tours, you can contact Mr. Boris Čargo at +385 98 179 4539
Bronze Head of the Greek Goddess Artemis
The Roman Baths on the island of Vis represent one of the island’s most valuable historical landmarks and cultural heritages. Located in the town of Vis, they reflect the island’s rich Roman legacy, dating back to the 1st–2nd century AD. These archaeological remains of ancient Roman baths - where Romans would relax and socialize -offer visitors a glimpse into daily life during antiquity.
The bath complex was designed with multiple chambers, including pools of varying temperatures, characteristic of Roman bathhouses. Visitors would alternate between warm and cold baths. The discovered mosaics and architectural elements demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship and the wealth that once flourished on Vis.
Unfortunately, during the 20th century, the site suffered significant damage. Portions of the baths were destroyed and concreted over due to modern construction projects, causing irreversible harm to this important site. Nevertheless, the Roman Baths remain a popular attraction for history and culture enthusiasts, offering a journey through time when Vis was a major port and commercial hub of the Roman Empire.
Martvilo is the site of an ancient Greek necropolis from the era of Issa (4th century BC), located southwest of the old town center, just behind today’s tennis courts.
The graves were built using stone slabs set into the ground, forming stone sarcophagi in which the deceased were laid directly on stone or soil. These were often family tombs.
During the Roman period, cremation with urns became the norm, marking a transition between Greek and Roman burial practices.
Today, Martvilo is a valuable archaeological site that complements the historical narrative of the town of Vis. The remains can be seen outdoors, right next to the former city walls.
Martvilo, otok Vis
On the Prirovo Peninsula, just a few minutes’ walk from the center of Vis, lies one of the island’s most significant archaeological sites – the remains of a Roman theatre built in the 1st or 2nd century AD. The theatre once served as the cultural and social hub of ancient Issa, the first Greek colony on the eastern Adriatic.
Today, visitors can see the semi-circular outer wall with decorative frieze, while some of the interior structures lie beneath the Monastery of St. Jerome, built by the Franciscans over the ruins in the 16th century. In the monastery’s basement, you can still see vaulted remains and seat supports, offering a glimpse of the structure’s former grandeur.
Like most Roman theatres, this one was divided into three main sections: the seating area (cavea), the orchestra (orchestra), and the stage building (scaenae frons). Although only partial remains are visible today, the site is of great importance for understanding the urban planning and cultural life during the Roman Empire.
Visits to the theatre are available by arrangement with the monks, and a walk through Prirovo alone reveals the layered history of Vis, where ancient architecture blends with Renaissance and modern cultural elements.
Roman Theatre on Prirovo
Report abuse