Homeland War Museum (Fort Imperial)

The Homeland War Museum occupies the Napoleonic Fort Imperial on the summit of Mount Srd above Dubrovnik, Croatia, next to the upper station of the cable car. The fort was built by the French between 1806 and 1812 during their occupation of the city, and during the 1991-92 siege of Dubrovnik a small garrison of defenders held it against much heavier forces, which prevented the Yugoslav army from taking the heights above the city. The exhibition tells the story of the siege through photographs, newspaper clippings, uniforms, weapons, documents and personal items from defenders and civilians. Video displays show footage of the bombardment of the Old Town, and maps explain how the city was surrounded and cut off. The museum is small and can be seen in about 45 minutes, and the fort's rooftop offers views over Dubrovnik and the Adriatic that put the exhibition in context, since visitors can see the Old Town and the positions that were shelled. Admission is about EUR 5 or included in the 10 Museums ticket at EUR 20, with reduced fares for students and free entry for young children. Hours are long in summer and shorter in winter. Most visitors arrive by cable car and combine the museum with sunset on the terrace, which is also when the summit is busiest; arriving earlier in the day gives a quieter visit. The alternative route is a taxi along the Bosanka road. Some exhibits are emotionally heavy, and visitors with children should consider this. A burnt-out cross on the hill nearby is a reminder of the events. Photography is generally allowed in the exhibition and on the roof. Bring a light jacket, since the summit is exposed and windier than the city below.