The atrium of the educational campus at St. John’s Fortress in Šibenik has taken on a new look. Its walls are now adorned with a mural that brings freshness to the space while respecting the historical character of the fortress.
The painting was created by Graffiti na gradele, a collective and festival organization that has been active across Croatia since 2012. They are known for their large-scale murals and work with young artists, and this project continues their experience in shaping public spaces.
Due to their authentic approach and extensive experience, the collective was a natural partner for this aesthetic transformation. The artists executed the project with a strong sense of design sensitivity — honoring the visual identity of Šibenik, Mediterranean motifs, and the unique atmosphere of St. John’s Fortress. The colors were carefully chosen to be subtle yet present, making the mural feel like an organic part of the environment rather than a mere addition.
The process involved several days of dedicated work — under the sun, in the wind, and in the open air — just the way art that transforms space is made.
This visual intervention was realized as part of the FORTIC EU project, implemented through the Interreg Italy–Croatia programme. The project aims to strengthen the role of Adriatic cross-border cultural heritage and develop new business models for historic fortresses. It promotes sustainable tourism through innovative digital tools and inclusive social models, with the goal of creating a shared cultural space tailored to the needs of vulnerable groups and the local “heritage community.”
