The Kosmač fortress is a historical jewel with a wonderful view of the Budva hinterland!

In the 19th century, the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy developed a network of defensive fortifications along its southern border, including ​​present-day Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. These fortifications protected strategically important areas, and their architectural style and technical solutions still impress history lovers today. One of the most important such fortresses is the Kosmač fortress, located above the village of Brajići in the hinterland of Budva, at an altitude of 800 meters.

Kosmač fortress,  Photo: galitskaya Depositphotos

When we talk about fortresses, we always imagine them to have been built in a much earlier century, but it is very interesting that some of them, like the Kosmač fortress, were built not so long ago.

The construction of this fortress began in 1841 and was completed in 1856 as part of an ambitious project to strengthen the defense. The fortress was strategically positioned above the village of Brajići to ensure surveillance over the approaches to Budva and the Adriatic coast, as well as the interior of Montenegro.

The local population, which was often in conflict with the Austro-Hungarian authorities, perceived the fortress as a symbol of occupation and foreign influence, and there was even a conflict during the Krivošije uprising in 1869 when the insurgents from Brajić tried to occupy the fortress.

Kosmač fortress,  Photo: galitskaya Depositphotos

If you have visited one of the Austro-Hungarian forts, you will notice that Kosmač is a classic example of their military architecture. It was built of carefully hewn stone with extremely strong exterior walls that have withstood the centuries. The complex included warehouses, quarters for the army and auxiliary facilities, and a signal room. There are also indications that inside the fortress there was a sports field for soldiers, which was a rarity at the time, and on the upper level there were also artillery installations adapted to operate in a wide area.

See how it looks in 3D.

Kosmač fortress,  Photo: galitskaya Depositphotos

The fortress was in operation until the beginning of the First World War in 1914 when the Austro-Hungarian army abandoned it. During the retreat, the building was partially destroyed by explosions, to prevent its use by enemy forces, including the Montenegrin army, which occupied it soon after. After the war, the fortress lost its military significance, but Italian troops used its remains during World War II, further damaging the already damaged structure.

After the 1979 earthquake, the condition of the fortress further deteriorated. Large parts of the vaults were destroyed, and the walls were weakening due to weather conditions and lack of maintenance. Despite this, Kosmač remains an extremely valuable historical site, providing an insight into the military strategies and construction of one of the most powerful empires in Europe.

Kosmač fortress,  Photo: galitskaya Depositphotos

In addition to its historical significance, the Kosmač fortress also offers visitors wonderful panoramic views of the Budva hinterland and the Adriatic Sea, so everyone is recommended to visit it. The fortress can be reached by a short walk from the local roads near Brajić.

The access path is not well marked, so the use of hiking applications is recommended, and entering the fortress itself is very unsafe due to collapsed structures. Therefore, if you are planning a visit, let your sightseeing be more focused on its exterior, surrounding landscape, and impressive views.