Novigrad Castle
Zadarska županija
Novigrad Castle, also known as Fortica or Stari grad Novigrad, is a historic fortress located on an elevated position above the town of Novigrad in Croatia's Zadarska County. The site originally hosted an Illyrian hillfort between 2000 and 1000 BC, followed by a Roman tower. The first recorded name of Novigrad, Castrum novum, dates to the early 13th century when the castle was rebuilt. In 1282, the local noble family Gusići-Kurjakovići completely renovated the fortress to protect their estates. The castle has witnessed significant historical events, including the imprisonment of Hungarian-Croatian Queen Maria and her mother Elizabeth in 1386. After Novigrad came under the control of the Venetian Republic in 1409, the fortress was transformed architecturally into a castle, enhancing its defensive capabilities. From the 16th to mid-17th century, it was nearly impregnable, though briefly captured by Ottoman forces in 1646. The Venetians regained control, and the last restoration occurred in 1797 before the fortress was abandoned following the fall of the Venetian Republic. Novigrad Castle stands as a testament to the region's turbulent history and strategic importance, offering visitors a glimpse into medieval fortification architecture and the legacy of various ruling powers.
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Tip: The best time to visit Novigrad Castle is during the warmer months when the weather allows comfortable exploration of the elevated site. Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear for walking on uneven terrain. While the castle is accessible to the public, checking local opening hours in advance is recommended. Tickets may be purchased on-site, and discounts for groups or seniors might be available. Early arrival can help avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.
Interesting facts
- •The original fortress site was an Illyrian hillfort dating back over 3,000 years.
- •Novigrad Castle was once a prison for Queen Maria of Hungary-Croatia and her mother Elizabeth in 1386.
- •The fortress was nearly impregnable from the 16th to mid-17th century, resisting multiple sieges.
- •Ottoman forces occupied the castle for nine months in 1646 before it was retaken by the Venetians.
History
The site of Novigrad Castle was originally an Illyrian hillfort constructed between 2000 and 1000 BC.
It later featured a Roman tower, which was rebuilt in the early 13th century, marking the first known use of the name Castrum novum for the settlement.
In 1282, the fortress was extensively renovated by the Gusići-Kurjakovići noble family to secure their lands.
The castle became a prison for Queen Maria of Hungary-Croatia and her mother Elizabeth in 1386.
In 1409, Novigrad and its fortress came under Venetian rule, leading to significant architectural changes.
The fortress remained strategically vital and nearly impregnable until the mid-17th century, when Ottoman forces briefly occupied it in 1646.
The Venetians restored control until the fortress was abandoned after the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797.
Place Guide
The Fortress Walls and Towers13th century and later
The defensive walls and towers of Novigrad Castle showcase medieval military architecture designed to protect the fortress from invasions. Visitors can explore these well-preserved structures that illustrate the strategic importance of the site.
The Prison Cells14th century
Within the castle are the historical prison cells where Queen Maria and her mother Elizabeth were held captive in 1386. These cells provide insight into the castle's role in regional political conflicts.
Venetian Architectural Features15th to 17th century
After Novigrad fell under Venetian control in 1409, the fortress underwent significant architectural transformations, including additions to fortify the castle against contemporary military threats.
