Between the towns of Ston and Mali Ston you can find the great walls and their adjacent structures. They were built during the 14th century and served to defend against Turkish attacks.
During the existence of the Dubrovnik Republic were those walls that protected the city, newly built and restored several times. At that time they were 5,5 kilometres long. The walls were complemented by 40 towers and 7 fortresses. Due to its strength and bigness it was called “European Great Wall of China“.
Ston walls, Croatia
Defensive fortification system was so carefully devised and constructed that the city couldn’t be conquered from the sea side.
Its basic elements were the three fortresses: Veliki Kaštio in Ston, Koruna in Mali Ston and the fortress on the hill Podzvizd. Veliki Kaštio was also a residential house, granary and armory.
Roman fort of Ston Croatia
Koruna, a strong fortress with five towers facing towards the sea, were built since 1347, and for centuries served as a port used mainly for exporting the salt.
After the fall of the Dubrovnik Republic the walls were gradually demolished. The stone blocks were sold as building material, used to build schools and municipal offices.
Ston city walls, Croatia
Today we can see only the ruins of three remaining towers and parts of the massive walls.
July and August are months when Ston holds traditional Ston Summer Festival (Stonsko ljeto), which is full of popular concerts of classical music, theatrical performances and folklore dance performances.
Once you are in Ston you should not miss tasting the oysters from the famous Ston sea farm.
I still cant believe that this great wall can be seen when you go to the moon!