56 Šibenik 56 Transforming Šibenik fortresses into a major cultural hotspot Croatia St. Michael’s fortress is the oldest of four fortresses in Šibenik, dating back to the early medieval period, while Barone Fortress was built in the mid-17th century outside the city’s historical centre. Both fortresses were left for centuries to decay and had no public utility, or economic or social function anymore. Despite the low expectations when the revitalisation project was announced, St. Michael’s fortress became one of the most visited museum spaces and the most visited fortification site in Croatia after the complex of the Dubrovnik walls and transformed the local cultural atmosphere. Despite the low expectations when the revitalisation project was announced, St. Michael’s fortress became one of the most visited museum spaces and the most visited fortification site in Croatia after the complex of the Dubrovnik walls and transformed the local cultural atmosphere. It quickly became clear that the fortress was financially self-sustainable as a historical monument and as a cultural venue. The historic value of the place combined with quality programmes has turned St. Michael’s fortress into a prestigious cultural stage in the region. A ‘Šibenik Fortresses Friends Club’ was created in parallel to the revitalisation project to reconnect local community with its newly revitalised cultural heritage. The club promotes the fortresses’ events, raises awareness and creates a sense of ownership among locals, who are invited to say which sites they would like to see restored in and around Šibenik. It gives a sense of responsibility for members of the Club and strengthens the emotional bond between Šibenik, its cultural heritage and citizens. What?