New powder magazine

The New Powder Room at Klis Fortress was built in the 19th century during the Austrian, or Habsburg, rule, on the site of the former Venetian military quarters. For centuries, it served as a powder storage facility, which was one of the most important military functions within the fortress, as gunpowder was essential for artillery and defense. Its solid and secure construction allowed for the safe storage of explosives, protecting it from enemy attacks and accidents. Interestingly, during World War II, this powder room took on a completely different role – it was converted into an Italian prison. At that time, Klis Fortress was under Italian occupation, and the powder room was used to detain prisoners of war and political opponents. This dark part of history is reminiscent of the turbulent events that gripped this area during the 20th century. In addition to being a military warehouse and prison, the New Powder Room is part of the fortress’s complex fortification system, supported by the parapets of the Maggiore position and the Malpiero bastion. Its function and architecture are a typical example of military construction of that era, with a clearly defined purpose and strategic position within the defense complex.