Back in September, State Property Minister Goran Marić visited Konavle and announced the state might soon leave Prevlaka Fortress in the hands of the Municipality of Konavle.
Minister Marić stayed true to his word: earlier today, he and the head of Konavle Municipality Božo Lasić signed a contract that officially hands over the fortress to the people of Konavle, reports DuList on October 24, 2017.
The Society of Friends of Dubrovnik Antiquities (DPDS) has been preparing a renovation project for a long time, with an intent to found and open a Museum of the Austro-Hungarian Navy. The first step towards the realisation of this long-awaited goal has now been made.
“Prevlaka is a symbol of Croatian history, defiance and pride. It will now become a gathering point for our friends from the municipality, the County and DPDS. This association knows how to preserve Croatian history, but also how to create new values”, said Minister Marić, adding that the state is handing over the fortress hoping it will become the southernmost gate of Croatia, opening our country to the world.
Božo Lasić thanked the Minister for showing that the state administration can be effective. “Not three months have passed from the initial idea to its realisation. This is a major thing for Konavle, but also for the Republic of Croatia. The fortress will not be used just for any purpose, but will house an attractive museum”, said Lasić.
Prefect of Dubrovnik-Neretva County Nikola Dobroslavić stated this is an important day for the County and the Municipality of Konavle. “The object used to be neglected even before the Homeland War, and it will finally get a new purpose and content. Fortunately, Minister Marić visits our county often, and this is not the first contract that signs over state property to the local authorities. The Ministry has good understanding of their duties, and they have started to sort out what hasn’t been sorted out in dozens of years”, Dobroslavić stated.
