Golubac Fortress: The Best Preserved Medieval Fortress in Europe

Golubac Fortress is a medieval fortified city located in the northeastern part of modern day Serbia. This fortress is situated at the very entrance of the Djerdap Gorge, which is known also as the Iron Gates, on the section where the Danube River is widest.

The fortress can be found on the southern side of the river, and approximately 4 km (2.48 miles) from it is the present day town of Golubac. Golubac Fortress is one of the best preserved medieval fortified cities in Serbia. As Golubac Fortress occupies a strategic position in the landscape, many nations have fought for its control over the ages. The powers that occupied this fortress at one point of time or another include the Hungarians, Serbs, Austrians, and Turks.

The Ten Towers

The most striking feature of Golubac Fortress is arguably its ten towers, which are connected by a series of walls. Initially there were only nine towers, but when the Turks took possession of the fortress they added another tower. The tower thought to be the oldest amongst the ten has been given the nickname ‘Hat Tower’. This is due to its unique octagonal base and cylindrical top. Apart from being the oldest tower, this was also the strongest tower, and had served as the fortress’ citadel.

The rear gate and tower 5 on the right, and tower 10 on the left. (Public Domain)