This great fortress in the shape of an irregular rectangle was constructed outside the city walls, in the eastern part of the city, in front of the Ploce Gates in the middle of the 16th century, when the Dubrovnik Republic was again under great threat from Venice. It was built quickly - all the remaining public works, in addition to a great deal of the private works in the town were halted in order to complete construction of the fortress as soon as possible and to reinforce the defence of the city port and the eastern part of town which was least protected. It was built according to the plans of engineer Antun Ferramolinna, sent to aid the Republic by the Spanish Admiral Dori, a great friend to the Republic. The monumental and impressive structure, surrounded by the sea on one side and three moats, was a dignified and unconquerable guard over the Dubrovnik port. With one corner, it entered into the eastern city gate, the Ploce Gates, thus forming a unique defence complex that protected the eastern land entrance to the city. Revelin has great vaulted rooms and the largest terrace in Dubrovnik, and therefore, is an exceptional ambient which is ideal as a stage for various performances of the summer festival.