Dubovac Castle

Dubovac Castle - Dvorac Dubovac, Karlovac, Karlovac County, Republic of Croatia.

Two kilometers from the center of Karlovac, formed around the star-shaped fortress founded by Charles II to defend against the Ottoman Empire (incidentally, the Turkish army besieged it seven times (last time in 1672), but was unable to take it), stands Dubovac Castle. It is all that remains of the ancient town after the devastating Turkish invasion of 1578.
These lands have always been considered strategically important, suitable for trade. They were owned at various times by aristocratic families: Zudar (1387-1426), Frankopan (1442-1550), and Zrinski (1550-1578), before passing to the army command in Karlovac (1678-1810).
The castle received its name from the oak forest that has surrounded it since ancient times. The first mention of the town dates back to 1339, when a priest visited Dubovac, but the castle itself was built in the late 12th or early 13th century. In the Middle Ages, Dubovac developed as a settlement with a fort, located at the intersection of the most important rivers and roads of its time. A significant moment in the castle's history can be considered the year 1511, when the then owner, Bernard Frankopanov, noted in a letter that Dubovac had changed from being built primarily of wood to being built of stone.
As a result of these reconstructions, Dubovac Castle acquired a Renaissance appearance with Gothic elements.
For the castle's reconstruction in the 20th century, military engineers' notes from 1777 were used. These documents described the castle's structure and the materials used in its construction. They also detailed the corner and two-story towers. In 1997, archaeological research revealed the fascinating history of settlements in this area during the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age.
The castle now houses the City Museum, and its premises house exhibits dedicated to the history of the city.
In the summer, a festival takes place here, when Dubovac once again becomes a medieval town. In honor of the city's long and varied history, during which vibrant trade continued for many years even before the founding of Karlovac, the locals organize a large fair. While strolling the streets, you can learn about medieval customs, crafts, weapons, games, and cuisine. You can also watch costumed performances by actors and musicians, as well as knightly battles.
The castle grounds also house a tavern offering excellent cuisine and pastries. This relatively small, but all the more cozy and romantic fortress is worth visiting not only for its rich history, but also to see the best panorama of the city of Karlovac and the Kupa River.