Well, we had seen the fortress on the top of the hill many times as we drove along the motorway. It looked very imposing and we (i.e. Roland) decided that we should go and get a closer look, especially as it was only 10 miles from our campsite. On the way we decided to make a stop in Solin to see the ruins of the city of Salona, the once Roman capital of Dalmatia. Unfortunately it was a very hot and sticky day and the signage was poor. Roland grumpily commented that you would think after two thousand years that they could have put up a few more signs. After a mile hike from where we left the car in Solin, we glimpsed part of the ruins of Salona through the trees. However, where we expected the entrance to be was a building site, and not just because of the ruins. One assumes that they were in the process of building a visitors centre or some such. It is a pity that it seems to be being erected in stark concrete. We had only had this fleeting glimpse of Salona when we realised that with only an hour on the clock we would have to beat a retreat back to the carpark.
Angela was dreading the next part of the journey up to Klis as it looked like a very narrow winding road. As it turned out it was not as perilous as Angela had first thought, and we were soon at the top.
The views from the fortress are just stunning, and one gets a splendid view across the whole area and can look down on Split in the distance. The fortress is very interesting, but it is well worth a visit just for the views.
We have noted in Croatia that health and safety seems to be a thing that is left up to the individual. Klis Fortress is no exception, with many dangers at the site, what with wires strewn haphazardly around and unfenced precipices. So, it is not a place for the unwary or unsupervised children.
On the way down, Roland commented that it seemed a little incongruous that, just a few metres from the peak and the fortress, there is a small settlement with a shop a few bars along with a school and playing field. Not and all “Game of Thrones” like.
Views of Klis Fortress
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