Walls of Ston, Croatia: Off The Beaten Path
As the longest walled path in Europe, (and the second longest in the world next to the Great Wall of China), the Walls of Ston is a historical hike with breathtaking views. Nestled into the mountainside on the Peljesac Peninsula, the walls stand overlooking the clear blue waters, making for a picturesque escape from the more crowded tourist areas in Croatia.
Stretching over 3 miles, the Walls of Ston connect the villages of Mali Ston and Ston to the southwest; they start in Ston and weave their way up the mountainside to the Pozvizd Fortress, then meet with the walls of Mali Ston. There are a total of 40 towers and 5 fortresses along the route to explore.
When construction began on the wall in 1335, the purpose was to protect the salt production that was booming in the area; the lucrative salt trade contributed a third of the annual budget for the Dubrovnik Republic during the medieval times. Each stone was hand-carved and placed with care. During an extensive renovation that lasted 50 years and ended in 2009, builders kept that traditional method, and only placed hand-carved stones. A magnificent feat, these walls are remembered and preserved so travelers can walk the path as they did hundreds of years ago.
After exploring the fortified walls, head into the Mali Ston village for world renowned oysters. We recommend the legendary Bote Sare restaurant; their European flat oysters (Ostrea edulis) are incredible. End your afternoon sitting by the bay and taking in the gem of a village you’ve found yourself in.
Featured image: © Tatyana Gundar | Dreamstime