The Batteries of 1913: Monte Sabbion & Monte Salvie

Both Monte Sabbion and Monte Salvie represent the final phase of the Austro-Hungarian fortification effort in Pula (the “Third Stage,” 1892–1918). They were constructed to address the technological shift toward high-explosive shells, leading to designs that were more elongated, lower to the ground, and often dug into the natural limestone terrain for camouflage and protection.

1. Monte Sabbion (Obalna topnička bitnica / Coastal Artillery Battery)
   • Established: 1913
   • Classification: Coastal Artillery Battery (Obalna topnička bitnica)
   • Location: Situated on Mali Brijun (Brioni Minor), as part of the outer defense ring protecting the entrance to the Fažana Channel.
   • Technical Details: According to historical records discussed in specialized forums, it was armed with 15 cm Küstenkanone L/40 guns manufactured by Škoda. These guns had a range of approximately 10.6 km and a firing rate of about one round per minute.
   • Current State: It is noted as one of the best-preserved sites on Mali Brijun. Some of the original Škoda gun barrels and mounts have survived, making it a “first-class tourist attraction” for military history enthusiasts.
2. Monte Salvie (Obalna topnička bitnica / Coastal Artillery Battery)
   • Established: 1913
   • Classification: Coastal Artillery Battery (Obalna topnička bitnica)
   • Location: Also located on Mali Brijun. It was designed to work in tandem with Monte Sabbion and the nearby Fort Brioni Minor to create a lethal crossfire zone for any enemy ships attempting to approach the military port of Pula.
   • Supporting Facilities: In close proximity, there is also the Salvie Near-shore Battery (uzobalna topnička bitnica), which served as a secondary defense layer.

Date of visit: 21.09.2025

Sources

• Mlinar, I., dipl. ing. arh., & Prižmić, E., dipl. ing. arh. (2013, September 30). Afirmacija sustava austrijske Pomorske tvrđave Pula – Korak u prostor. Korak u prostor – Energetska učinkovitost, građevinske tehnologije i podne obloge. Retrieved February 12, 2026, from https://korak.com.hr/korak-043-rujan-2013-afirmacija-sustava-austrijske-pomorske-tvrdave-pula/
• Topovi u 1. svjetskom ratu (Austro-Ugarska). (2009, September 2). Forum.hr. Retrieved February 12, 2026, from https://www.forum.hr/showthread.php?t=477225&langid=1&nojs=1