Fort Forno

Standing at Fort Forno, you are looking at a building that has watched a great deal of Croatian history come and go.

History and background

An Austro-Hungarian fortress near Bale in Istria, built to control the Fažana channel. Decommissioned and long abandoned, its halls are now used for summer theatre performances.

Worth knowing

Fort Forno stands in Istria, one of the six regions that make up the Croatia most visitors fall for. From the Adriatic shore to the karst mountains and the quiet inland valleys, this part of the country gives you something worth the detour.

A guided tour is usually worth the few extra euros, the stories are the point.

Practical info

• Entry: check the official source before you travel. Prices and opening hours change, and some spots close entirely out of season.
• How to get there: Tap the map above for exact directions. In Croatian towns parking is usually signposted and paid, look for the blue P zones. If you are island hopping, leave buffer time for the ferries.

Timing your trip

Croatia is at its best from May to October. June and September are the sweet spot, warm water, long days, and thinner crowds than high July and August. Winter shows a quieter, cheaper and surprisingly handsome country, especially inland and in the cities.

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