According to tradition, the people of Dubrovnik built it in just three months in the early 11th century to stop the Venetians from building their own fort on the same rock. Its walls facing the sea are up to 12 metres thick, while the wall facing the city is much thinner, so that a rebellious commander could never turn it against Dubrovnik. Above the gate is the motto "Liberty is not sold for all the gold in the world".
Today it hosts plays during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, notably Hamlet.
The ticket for the city walls also covers the fort, so keep it for the climb.
