Fort Povrsnica (Serbian/Montenegrin Površnica – Surface) is an Austro-Hungarian fortification located above Risan. It was built at the end of the 19th century after the Krivoši Uprising of 1869 to control the Risan-Crkvice and Risan-Grkavac roads.
Its function was to supplement and assist in the defence of Fort Greben, which was located on a hill nearby. It also had the function of inspecting and controlling goods travelling along the road nearby.
Fort Povrsnica today
Today, little remains of the Površnica Fort, only the ruins of the walls and rooms help to understand the structure of the fortification. It is worth noting that the fort had three observation towers, one of which is relatively well preserved. Unfortunately, however, most of the fort's infrastructure has been destroyed.
Nevertheless, it offers a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside, which demonstrates why the Austrians chose this location for the fortification.
How to get to Fort Povrsnica
You can either reach the fort on foot, climbing up from Risan, or you can drive up by car.
How to get to Fort Povrsnica by car
The Površnica Fortress can be accessed by car from both sides:
- from the Risan side along a serpentine road left over from Austrian times, but covered with tarmac.
- Turning from the M-08 motorway towards one of the quarries and driving after it for another 300-400 metres
It is worth noting that the road quality is much better if you turn off the M-08 motorway. Your stop is approximately here. From here, it takes about the same amount of time to get to Fort Površnica as to Fort Greben.
How to reach Fort Površnica from Risan on foot
The old Austrian serpentine roads from Risan to Povrsnica Fort can be climbed on foot. It is worth noting that the road is marked and easy to spot, so this option is even more interesting for hikers.
As one option for a hike to see 2 or 3 Austro-Hungarian-era forts:
- Climb up the tarmac road here to the branch to the Austrian serpentine.
- Hike up the old serpentine to Površnica Fort
- Walk a little further to Fort Greben
You can descend to Risan as you climbed or by additionally visiting the Ledenice Fort.
