Oštrica Wall

The Oštrica Wall, locally known as Bedem Grebaštica, lies west of the town of Grebaštica, in the county of Šibenik-Knin in Croatia.

In the late 15th century, the Ottomans, having already conquered Bosnia, began infrequently raiding coastal areas from the interior. The locals then built this wall across the narrow neck of the Oštrica peninsula. In case of attacks, they would retreat onto the peninsula, behind the wall, along with their livestock. To support them, small houses and cattle pens were erected on the peninsula. During the 16th century, Ottoman attacks grew more intense.

After the last Ottoman-Venetian War, the peninsula was used to quarantine plague patients in the 18th century. The wall was even utilized to protect locals from British pirate attacks during French rule between 1809 and 1814. After that, it lost its defensive purpose.

The wall curves slightly, running from one coastline to the other. Only at the highest point of the neck does part of the wall project outward. No gates remain. Access to the peninsula was likely gained by two bridges on either end of the wall.

The Oštrica Wall is freely accessible. It is a fascinating remnant of fortification situated in a beautiful location.

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