Dubovac Castle

Dubovac stands on a hill west of Karlovac and predates the town below it by centuries - a fortified residence recorded from the thirteenth century, rebuilt in the Renaissance with round towers and an arcaded courtyard, and held over time by the Frankopans, the Zrinski and later owners. When Karlovac was laid out as a star fort in 1579 on the plain beneath, Dubovac was already old. It was restored in the twentieth century and used variously as a hotel and museum space; access has depended on the current use, and it has been closed for works at times. The terrace looks over the town and the four rivers around it.

What you actually see

• A castle older than the town - recorded from the thirteenth century.
• Renaissance towers and courtyard - the later rebuilding.
• Frankopan and Zrinski ownership - the region's two great houses.
• A terrace over Karlovac - the star town and its rivers below.

When to go

April to October; check opening, which has varied with the building's use. Two hours.

Honest expectations

The castle has been closed for restoration for periods and access is not guaranteed - the exterior and terrace may be all there is. The climb up is short but steep. Facilities are minimal.

Nearby

Karlovac's star town is below; Ozalj is north-west.