Klis Fortress sits on a rocky ridge above the village of Klis, about 9 km from Split. Its walls date back about two thousand years, and the site has been held by Illyrian, Roman, Croatian, Venetian and Ottoman rulers. The cobbled road climbs to the front gate, and the walk up through the fortress brings wider views over Split, the Adriatic and the islands. The fortress also stood in for Meereen in Game of Thrones, which draws more visitors, but the stonework, the lookouts and the evening light are the main reasons to go.
From the Illyrians to the Ottomans
The fortress began as a stronghold of the Dalmatae, an Illyrian tribe, before the Romans took it. After the Roman Empire fell, the site became a seat for several Croatian kings. In the 1500s, the fortress helped defend the region during Mongol and then Ottoman sieges. Venetian and Ottoman rulers also held it at different times.
The fortress stands about 360 metres above sea level, where defenders could watch the routes into Split, Salona and the land around them. That position is why it is known as the Key to Dalmatia.
Inside the fortress
The walk begins at the front gate and continues upward through several buildings. The higher you climb, the wider the views of the countryside and Split. Visitors can explore a number of hidden corners, some holding artifacts from the kingdoms that ruled here.
One of the buildings was a church that was later converted into a mosque, then restored to its original state. A shooting range offers archery under local guidance, which gives you a different way to spend time on the walls. Parts of the fortress have been under renovation, so check the official website before you go.
The entrance ticket also covers a museum nearby, which is an olive museum.
Getting there and parking
Bus 22 leaves from Split centre and stops outside the fortress. The ride takes about 30 minutes. Service can be irregular, so look up the timetable before you set out. A taxi or a ride-hailing car is the other option from Split, and it is worth booking the return ride in advance.
The car park at the fortress is small. An overflow lot sits just before the village, and both free and paid street parking are available nearby. The village below has restaurants and small shops, which is useful before or after the climb.
Game of Thrones filming
The fortress stood in for Meereen, the city that Daenerys Targaryen takes over in season 4 of Game of Thrones. Fans come to find the spots where the Meereen scenes were shot.
Since the series, more visitors have come to the fortress as part of a visit to Split. The walls and views are the same whether or not you know the show.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Adult admission is 12 euros. Buying tickets in advance is recommended, and you should carry some cash, since cards may not be accepted.
How do I get to Klis Fortress from Split?
Take bus 22 from Split centre. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and the bus stops outside the fortress. Check the timetable first, because service can be irregular. A taxi or a ride-hailing car is also an option.
Can I park at Klis Fortress?
There is a small car park at the fortress. An overflow lot sits just before the village, and free and paid street parking is also available nearby.
Is Klis Fortress suitable for children?
The site is marked as good for kids, and the entrance is wheelchair accessible. The climb is steep and the paths are uneven, so good shoes and water help.
