Tvrđava Gripe

Gripe Fortress is a historic defensive structure in the east of Split, built in the 17th century to protect the city from Ottoman attacks. It stands on the hill of the same name in the Lučac-Manuš district. Construction became necessary because the old city walls could no longer withstand the new methods of warfare involving cannons. During the Cretan War, the Republic of Venice commissioned the engineer Alessandro Magli to build a modern fortification system of earth-filled bastions and sturdy walls. The fortress was the scene of fierce fighting when the Ottomans attacked it several times in 1657. The people of Split put up a brave defense and, with support from Trogir, Brač, Hvar, and finally the Venetian fleet, were able to repel the besiegers. Later, the grounds also served as barracks for the Austrian army. Today the complex houses the Croatian Maritime Museum and the State Archives. Here you can explore maritime history and archival collections, and you may also catch cultural events such as concerts in the historic setting.