Tag: Dalmatia

Believe it or not, the city walls of Ston are actually bigger and more impressive than Dubrovnik’s, yet hardly anybody knows about this Croatian town.  Just a stone’s throw from the tourist trap lies the two-part town of Ston, a fortified settlement promising glorious Adriatic views, crumbling medieval architecture, delectable seafood and fine wine. Ston is located on the Pelješac Peninsula, around an hour’s drive from Dubrovnik and two hours from Split. It’s known for its 14th century city walls which are considered Europe’s answer to China's Great Wall, and world class oysters. Ston is also located in Croatia’s wine country, meaning you’re in the right place for a tipple.  Ston has two parts: Ston, sometimes referred to as Veliki Ston (“Great Ston”) and Mali Ston (“Little Ston”). The best things to see and do in Ston Ston old town Much like Dubrovnik, Ston teeters on the edge of the Adriatic, making for a picturesque spot for a coffee while you plan your next move. Take a wander through its medieval streets and see what you find or book an excursion such as an oyster tour. Don't miss a visit to Ston Fortress (pictured above). Ston City Walls The mighty Walls of Ston (Stonske zidine) is Europe’s largest remaining fortification system and the world’s second largest after the Great Wall of China. Built between the 14th and 18th centuries to protect the city from threats in Dubrovnik, the walls spanned 7km originally (it’s now 5km), connecting the two sides of the city by a 3km wall clinging to the hillside.  You can pay to walk the walls (which includes the crossing between the two towns) and enjoy aerial views of the settlements and ocean. Along the way, look out for its three forts (Veliki Kaštio, Koruna, and Podzvizd), seven bastions