This majestic fort above the Koritnica gorge is one of the most visited cultural sights in the Soča valley. It is an important monument to the defence against Turkish invasions, Napoleon's army and attacks during World War I.
The history of the Kluže Fort is captured in the remarkable nature, between the steep slopes of Rombon, Slemen and the 70 m deep emerald green gorges of the River Koritnica. Here you will feel and admire the draughts of the past that marked this strategically important position, also known as Bovška vrata. Location: The Kluže Fort lies 4 km out of Bovec in the directon of the Predel mountain pass.
Kluže Fort, Bovec, ©Jure Batagelj - arhiv Fundacije Poti miru
The Kluže Fort, from Embrasures to The Wedding March
See the permanent exhibition, one of the culture and art events, visit the near Fort Hermann or say “I do”. Do not be surprised if soldiers in their uniforms stop you on the road and invite you to see the 1313 show, which you may also see according to the prior agreement in a group.
The History of the Kluže Fort
In the 15th century, the Kluže Fort was a wooden fortification, intended to prevent the Turkish invasions to Koroška. Later on, a stone fortification was built, which was defended by Austrian soldiers from the military of general Napoleon Bonaparte in the 18th century. The fort obtained its modern view in the 19th century, while in the 20th century it played an important role on the Isonzo Front.
Fort Hermann
The Koroška fort on the slope of Mt. Rombon was built as a support to the Kluže Fort, between years 1897 and 1900, i.e. in Austria-Hungary. During the First World War, it was badly damaged by heavy Italian shelling. Today, informative signs have been placed next to the debris of the fort.
Access to Fort Hermann: By foot, from the Kluže Fort, on a wide marked route, which is carved into a rocky slope, through a 100 m long illuminated stone tunnel and then on the left path that climbs the Rombon. The walk to the fort takes a little less than half an hour.
Please note: The fort ruins and the trail are not secured. Visit at your own risk. It is recommended that you bring a flashlight.
Kluže fortress - underground tunnel, ©Žiga Koren
Discover the underground of the Koritnica canyon and walk through the 400m long tunnel under the Kluže fortress.
Guided tours every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 12:00.
The Kluže fort - opening hours
Month | Opening hours 2024 | |
26. 4.—5. 5. | daily | 10.00—17.00 |
May | Saturday and Sunday | 10.00—17.00 |
June - September | daily | 10.00—17.00 |
other | Open for larger groups by agreement |
The Kluže fort - admission prices
Ticket type | price / person |
family (2 adults + at least 1 child) | 12,00 € |
adults | 5,00 € |
students, pensioners | 3,00 € |
group (over 10 people) | 3,00 € |
with the Julian Alps card: Soča Valley | free |
Regular guided tours according to schedule - till 23rd September 2024
- guided tour of the fortress, 3,00 € / person
Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday at 11.00
- guided tour of the tunnel, 5,00 € / person
Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday at 12.00
(the tunnel cannot be visited without a guide)
Guided tour for groups
- 20,00 € per group
Fortress rental for groups
We offer Kluže fortress rental for various events, team building, etc. Full-day rental is possible outside the main season (July, August). During the main season, rental is available after 17:00, when the fortress closes for visitors.
- Full-day group rental, 427,00 €
outside the main season (July, August) - Group rental after 17:00, 244,00 €
Hiking and mountain trails
Zgodovinska pot (Historic Trail) | 14,1 km | 5 h | Go hiking > | |
Bavšica valley trail | 7,2 km | 3 h | Go hiking > | |
Mt. Rombon (2208 m), the finest sightseeing hill of the Bovec area | 18,2 km | 8:10 h | Go mountaineering > |