Fort Forno

Once an imposing coastal fortress, it is now an overlooked relic of Croatia’s naval history. Fort Forno was a commanding and formidable fortress, though years of disuse have left it in a dilapidated state.

The fort was built in 1904. It stood 25 meters above sea level and was built using stone blocks from local quarries and a reinforced concrete structure. The architecture allowed it to blend with the natural surroundings as it was built directly into the rock, making it unnoticeable from the sea. 

The fort once featured large coastal cannons on the batteries, each mounted in lightly armored cupolas. Its strategic position allowed it to block access to the Fažana Channel, one of the three main entrances to the Port of Pula, in the event of a crossfire. A rock-cut moat protected the 14,000-square-meter fort from possible land attacks. For aerial attacks, the site also used funnel-shaped devices to detect the specific sounds of enemy aircraft.

By the end of the First World War, the Italian Army took control and sadly, the fort lost its characteristic appearance. The army removed various metal fittings, equipment, and powerful cannons. Eventually, the German Armed forces took over in the Second World War, making the most out of the fort and its powerful position on the Croatian Istrian coast. After the Axis forces lost the war, in 1945, the Yugoslavian Army of Liberation seized control of the forts in the region. Pula became assigned to Fort Forno. 

Eventually, the need for the fortress ceased. Although most of the walls remain, they are in a dilapidated condition. To make matters worse, an explosion of unknown origin destroyed the engine room. 

Regardless, the Croatian people have found a modern and creative use for the fort. Today, Fort Forno is now a place for theater. From mobile bleachers in the courtyard, visitors can watch Istrian plays and the Croatian team playing at international football matches.