Rijeka Tunnel

Have you ever thought about visiting a military facility just for fun? Probably not something that pops up on your typical travel itinerary. But in Rijeka, you can do just that. Right in the heart of the city, there's an underground adventure waiting for you: the first military tunnel in the area open exclusively for curious explorers like us.

Rijeka's strategic location at the crossroads of historical empires made it a hotbed of military activity. This led to the construction of numerous fortifications, especially around World War II. The Alpine Wall, or Vallo Alpino, was a defensive line meant to secure the border between the Kingdom of Italy and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. To shield the city from potential cannon fire, subterranean strongholds, bunkers, and passages began to take shape in 1931.

You'll find the tunnel entrance conveniently located next to the Cathedral of St. Vitus. It winds its way beneath the Old Town, reaching all the way to Dolac Primary School. This 330-meter-long marvel was carved into the bedrock between 1939 and 1942 by Italian forces to protect civilians from air raids. Descending to a depth of 10 meters at various points, the tunnel averages 4 meters in width and 2.5 meters in height. The main corridor branches off in two directions: one path leads to the old city hall, while the other takes you back toward the Cathedral of St. Vitus. As you wander through this remarkable piece of history, imagine the stories these walls could tell. Rijeka's rich past is etched into every stone. And while you're in the area, don't miss exploring the bustling local markets and savoring the vibrant flavors of Croatian cuisine. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a unique experience, Rijeka's military tunnel offers a fascinating peek into a world that once was.