Overlooking the city from a hill, this 13th-century fortress offers panoramic views of Rijeka and the Kvarner Gulf.

Trsat Castle represents a strategically embossed gazebo on a hill 138 meters above sea level that dominates Rijeka. As a parochial centre it was mentioned for the first time in 1288. Trsat Castle is one of the oldest fortifications on the Croatian Coast, where the characteristics of the early medieval town construction have been preserved. Today Trsat Castle, beside the Bazilisk souvenir shop and the Gradina coffee bar, is enriched with new facilities – gallery space where art exhibitions are held as well as open-air summer concerts and theatre performances as well as fashion shows and Literary evenings. Within Trsat Castle, at the Petra Zrinskog b.b. Address, is the Trsat Castle Info Point where any information about this building and the town of Rijeka can be found.

Rijeka's Maritime Innovation: The Development of the Torpedo

Rijeka's contribution to maritime technology is most notably marked by its pivotal role in the development of the torpedo, an innovation that had a profound impact on naval warfare. This technological advancement is closely tied to the city's rich shipbuilding and maritime history.

The Whitehead Torpedo

In the late 19th century, Rijeka was the site of significant technological innovation when Robert Whitehead, an English engineer, perfected the design of the self-propelled torpedo in 1866. Whitehead was managing a foundry in Rijeka when he was approached by Giovanni Luppis, a retired naval officer of the Austro-Hungarian Navy, who had an idea for a weapon to defend coastal cities. Luppis's initial concept was refined by Whitehead, who developed a device that could travel underwater towards a target.

Global Impact and Legacy

The torpedoes made in Rijeka were exported worldwide, and the city became synonymous with this new weapon, influencing naval tactics and defense strategies globally. The factory continued to operate and evolve through various political changes, contributing to the naval arsenals of multiple countries well into the 20th century.