Kampana Tower | Kotor

Kampana Tower (Tvrđava Kampana) is a historic defensive tower located in the Old Town of Kotor, Montenegro. It is part of the Kotor City Walls, a well-preserved example of medieval fortifications that once protected the city from external threats. Kampana Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Kotor and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's military past.

Historical Background

Kampana Tower was built in the 16th century as part of the extensive defensive system constructed to protect the city from potential invasions, particularly from Ottoman forces and pirates. The tower is located at the western entrance to the Old Town and played an essential role in the city's defense by overseeing the sea approach and guarding the entrance to the town.

The tower's name, "Kampana," is derived from the word for bell, as it was historically used as a watchtower where a bell was placed to signal danger or a potential attack. The bell would be rung to alert the people of Kotor to an impending threat, enabling them to take refuge within the city’s walls.

Kampana Tower is part of the larger system of fortifications that included city walls, bastions, and other watchtowers. The fortifications were necessary because Kotor, being a significant port city in the Adriatic, was a prime target for naval attacks.

Architectural Features

1. Shape and Structure

Kampana Tower has a circular shape, typical of many defensive towers in the region, which made it easier to defend against attackers from any direction. The tower is built from stone, using materials readily available in the area, giving it a robust and imposing appearance.

The tower’s thick walls and small, strategically placed windows allowed defenders to fire upon attackers while minimizing exposure to enemy fire. The top of the tower offers panoramic views of the town and the Bay of Kotor, making it an ideal lookout point for monitoring incoming threats.

2. The Bell and Watchtower Function

The bell in the Kampana Tower was a critical element of the city’s defense system. It was used to signal both the residents and the military forces of Kotor. The bell could be rung to mark the arrival of enemy ships, prompting the city's defense mechanisms, including the mobilization of soldiers and the closing of gates.

The top of the tower offered an unobstructed view of the Bay of Kotor, allowing sentries to monitor maritime traffic. This was vital for Kotor’s security, as the city’s port and surrounding waters were crucial to its economy and strategic importance.

3. Defensive Role

Kampana Tower, like other towers in Kotor’s city walls, was equipped with defensive features such as arrow slits and gun ports to protect the defenders. These openings allowed archers and gunners to fire at invaders while remaining sheltered behind the tower’s thick walls.

The tower's strategic position made it one of the key elements in the city’s defense against seafaring threats. In times of danger, its bell would signal to the rest of the city to prepare for an attack, whether by land or sea.

Modern-Day Significance

1. Tourist Attraction

Today, Kampana Tower is one of the most visited historical sites in Kotor. It provides visitors with an excellent opportunity to learn about the town's military history and its defensive architecture.

Kampana Tower also serves as a vantage point offering stunning views of Kotor Old Town, the Bay of Kotor, and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. The climb to the tower involves walking through the City Walls, which themselves are a major tourist attraction.

2. City Gate and Entrance

• The tower is located near the Sea Gate (Vrata od Mora), the western entrance to the Old Town of Kotor. The City Walls that run through the town and include Kampana Tower are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tower’s location and architecture represent the intricate and well-thought-out design of Kotor’s defensive structures.

3. Preservation Efforts

• Like many of the historical buildings in Kotor, Kampana Tower has undergone various restoration efforts to preserve its integrity. These efforts ensure that future generations can appreciate the tower's historical and architectural value while maintaining its role as a symbol of Kotor's medieval defense.

Climbing Kampana Tower

Visitors can climb to the top of Kampana Tower by following a well-maintained pathway along the Kotor City Walls. The climb can be a bit strenuous due to the steps and steep incline, but it rewards visitors with spectacular views of the Bay of Kotor and the Old Town below.

Along the way, visitors can explore other sections of the fortifications that form part of the larger defensive system. These include bastions, archways, and gates that once served to protect the town from attackers.

Practical Information

Location: Kampana Tower is located in the Old Town of Kotor, near the western entrance at the Sea Gate.

Opening Hours: The tower is usually open to the public during the day, though hours may vary by season. It’s recommended to check before visiting.

Entrance Fees: There is an entrance fee to access Kampana Tower and the City Walls. A combined ticket for the City Walls and Kampana Tower provides visitors with access to the entire defensive system.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kampana Tower is during the early morning or late afternoon, especially in the summer months when the temperature can be quite high. The view from the tower is particularly stunning during sunrise or sunset.

Conclusion

Kampana Tower is a key part of Kotor's military history, representing both the city’s strategic importance in the medieval period and the engineering ingenuity of its fortifications. The tower’s role as a watchtower with a signaling bell made it an integral part of Kotor's defense system, and today it stands as a historical landmark and a popular tourist destination. With its remarkable views, historical significance, and architectural beauty, Kampana Tower offers a unique insight into the past while providing an unforgettable experience for visitors.