Old Town Dubovac | Croatia Captured

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- Old Town Dubovac -

The Old Town of Dubovac, located in Karlovac, Croatia, is a historical castle with an intriguing past. The castle, with its square tower, dates back to the 13th century and was rebuilt in the 15th century in the Renaissance style. Over the years, it has had various owners, including prominent Croatian families like the Frankopan and Zrinski. The castle, known for its strategic hilltop position, has also been featured on a Croatian postage stamp, marking its significance in the country's cultural heritage.

Photos taken on November 23rd, 2023

Fun fact no 1

Its square tower, likely built in the 13th century, was part of a larger renovation in the 15th century, reflecting the Renaissance style.

Fun fact no 2

The castle has had several notable owners, including the Sudar, Frankopan, and Zrinski families, and was owned by the Karlovac generals from 1671 to 1809.

Fun fact no 3

In 1837, the castle was remodeled in the romanticism style by its then-owner, Count Laval Nugent, and it has undergone various renovations since, including in 1952 in line with 18th-century graphics.

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The Old Town Dubovac is a significant historical fortress located in the Dubovac area of Karlovac, Croatia. This castle, stylistically Renaissance with Gothic elements, is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved examples of feudal architecture in Croatia.

Its name, derived from the oak forest that once surrounded the castle, has been passed on to the local city quarter.

Perched on a prehistoric mound above the Kupa River at 185 meters above sea level, archaeological excavations in the late 20th century revealed rich prehistoric and ancient layers of a former settlement dating back to the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age.

Dating back to before the 13th century, the first written documents mentioning Dubovac Castle only appear in 1339. These church records mention its first parish priest and contain numerous Glagolitic writings. Since the 14th century, various noble families have managed and owned the castle, with the Frankopan family contributing significantly to its current form. Under their ownership, the castle was transformed from a wooden structure to a stone building. Other notable rulers of Dubovac include the Zrinski family, the (S)Zudari, and the command of the Karlovac army or the War Council, which purchased Dubovac after it was destroyed by the Ottomans during their 1578 campaign on Good Friday.

Throughout history, the role of Dubovac Castle has evolved. It was more significant than the city of Karlovac, which emerged much later. The castle has been extensively renovated and expanded multiple times. In 1777, military engineer Krey documented Dubovac as a castellated building mainly constructed of broken stone. The castle's floor plan is irregular and quadrangular, reinforced with corner towers. The main tower is square and two stories taller than the other three round, two-story towers. Between these towers are wings containing defensive, storage, and living spaces.

Today, Old Town Dubovac is a popular tourist destination, featuring a viewpoint and a permanent museum exhibition in the highest tower. At the foot of Dubovac lies the National Shrine of St. Joseph, declared the National Shrine of Saint Joseph of the Church in Croatia by Croatian bishops on April 15, 1987. This historical and architectural treasure, with its rich past and scenic location, continues to attract visitors interested in exploring Croatia's heritage.

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