Fortifications on the Rupnik line

The Rupnik Line is a system of fortifications, which were built during the 1930's by the Kingdom of Yugoslavia as a defence line on the border with the Kingdom of Italy. The strategically placed forts were never used for military or defence purposes. The building of the fortifications brought residents a temporary solution for unemployment and financial troubles which affected them due to the border location. During its building, locals were employed as construction workers, porters or transporters of materials. One of the most eminent and best-preserved fortifications of the Rupnik Line is the underground fortress on Goli vrh. Inside you can see a permanent exhibition of remains from the time of building, whilst in the spacious halls various events take place throughout the year.

Entrance to the fortfress is only possible when accompanied by a guide.

Hundreds of bunkers were built

With the signing on 12th November 1920 of the Treaty of Rapallo, between the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes and the Kingdom of Italy, the border between the two kingdoms was defined. In 1938 building began along the length of the border of a system of fortifications, later named the Rupnik Line. It was named after the General of Slovene origin, Leon Rupnik, who was the Chief Staff Officer responsible for fortifying the defence lines.

Several hundred bunkers were built, among them there were also three underground defence blocks, named 'Hlavče njive', 'Hrastov grič' and 'Goli vrh', which were strategically of key importance in the defence against possible invasions towards Ljubljana by Italian soliders. Between the large buildings there were smaller anti-infantry bunkers built for two to seven soldiers. There was barbed wire installed between the buildings, whilst in the valley anti-tank barriers were also erected. At the start of World War II all operations on the defence line immediately stopped and many of the buildings remained untouched. The defence line never experienced any major battles and, thus, never served its purpose.

Construction

A special construction team was established for constructions of the fortifications; at the start it consisted mainly of reserve soldiers, however, later, due to extent of the work, the civilian population were also included. Over 60,000 soldiers and civilians were involved in the building of the defence system.

Other sights of interest:

Theme path The secret world of the Rupnik line fortifications
Theme path Rapalska meja

Guided tours of the fortifications on Goli vrh

Guided tours are held every first Saturday in the month, beginning at 10am in front of the fortress on Goli vrh. Advance reservations are not required. Head lamps and suitable clothing and footwear are required.

Guided tours cost €5 per person.

Guided tours for groups, upon prior arrangements

Zavod za turizem in kulturo Poljanska dolina
Poljanska cesta 87
4224 Gorenja vas

M: +386 (0)31 720 573
E: zavod@poljanskadolina.com
W: www.poljanskadolina.com

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