Minčeta Tower

The Minčeta Tower was built by a local builder named Nicifor Ranjina and Italian engineers sent by Pope Pius II in 1463, at the height of the Turkish threat. Originally as a strong four-sided fort, it is the most prominent point in the defensive system towards the land. The tower's name derives from the name of the Menčetić family, who owned the ground upon which the tower was built. By its height and impressive volume, the tower dominates the northwestern high part of the city and its walls.

In the middle of the 15th century, around the earlier quadrilateral fort, Michelozzo built a new round tower using new warfare technique and joined it to the new system of low scarp walls. The full six-meter thick walls of the new tower had a series of protected gun ports. The architect and sculptor Giorgio da Sebenico of Zadar continued the work on the Minčeta tower. He designed and built the high narrow round tower while the battlements are a later addition. The tower was completed in 1464 and became the symbol of the unconquerable city of Dubrovnik.

After a long excavation, a 16th-century cannon foundry was discovered under Minčeta Tower. It is now a museum. Since Minčeta Tower is the highest point of the wall, it is considered to offer a seemingly 'unforgettable' view on the city.

References:

• Wikipedia

Address

Ulica Ispod Minčete 7, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Details

Founded: 1463
Category: Castles and fortifications in Croatia