Karlovac Star

The Star (Zvijezda), the unique historical center of Karlovac, was founded in 1579 as a military fortress and strategic base for defensive and offensive operations against the Ottoman Empire. Designed with precision, it features a rectangular street grid, symmetrical residential blocks, and a central square—a true example of a planned Renaissance city. The fortress was surrounded by pentagonal bastions, connected by earthen ramparts and a deep moat with a glacis, creating an impenetrable defensive line.

At the end of the 17th century, a devastating fire ravaged the town, leading to extensive reconstruction throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, shaping the present-day appearance of the Star. With the abolition of the Military Frontier, parts of the earthen walls and bastions were removed, yet the Star retained its distinctive outline and historical character.

Today, the Star is protected as a cultural heritage site of Croatia, encompassing 252 buildings across 33.83 hectares, 45% of which hold significant historical value. Within its boundaries, there are nine protected immovable and seven movable cultural assets, preserving its historical essence through residential, commercial, and public spaces.

The Karlovac Star remains a lasting symbol of the city's history and culture, inviting visitors to explore its fascinating story and unique architecture.