Monument to Petar Kružić
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You are standing in front of the statue of Petar Kružić, one of the most prominent Croatian military leaders of the 16th century. This statue, located inside the Klis Fortress, is the work of sculptor Duje Matetić, a student at the Academy of Arts in Split. It was discovered in 2016 as a plaster model, and is planned to be cast in bronze. Petar Kružić was a brave military leader and captain of the Klis Fortress who defended the city from the Ottoman Empire for almost 25 years. He is famous for having managed to break through the Ottoman siege in 1524 and save the fortress, gathering help from Senj and other regions. Despite the difficulties, the lack of help from the king, and constant attacks, Kružić tirelessly defended Klis and the surrounding areas, becoming a symbol of resistance. His death in 1537 marked the end of the long-term defense, but his courage is still celebrated today as a key part of the history of Klis and Croatia. After his death, his body was buried in the Chapel of St. Peter on Trsat, while his head was later purchased and placed next to his body.