Summer in Kvarner traditionally brings a wealth of cultural and entertainment events, and the epicenter of summer happenings in Rijeka is once again located on one of the most impressive open-air stages – Trsat Castle. The event Summer at the Castle, after a successful opening in early July with events such as Sunset Castel and Pul Kaštela, continues with a program that promises to meet the expectations of the most diverse tastes. The Rijeka audience and numerous tourists who have found their accommodation in Rijeka will have the opportunity to enjoy a series of concerts and performances that will bring the historic walls of this ancient edifice to life.

This week already brings two musical treats that will surely attract streams of visitors to Nugent Park. On Friday, July 11, one of the most esteemed singer-songwriters of the region, Sergej Ćetković, will take the stage. Known for his emotional ballads and powerful vocals, Ćetković has gained an army of fans throughout the area of the former state. His concerts are known as intimate and touching experiences, and the romantic ambiance of Trsat Castle, with a view of the Rijeka Bay, provides the perfect backdrop for an evening filled with hits like "Pogledi u tami," "Ljubav," and "Nek te ljubav dočeka." An evening filled with strong emotions and musical virtuosity is expected, which will undoubtedly mark this year's Summer at the Castle.

Just a day later, on Saturday, July 12, a completely different, but equally magnetic musical story follows. The Dubrovnik band Silente takes the stage, a group that has won over both critics and the public with their unique blend of pop, rock, and powerful original lyrics. Known for their explosive energy on stage and songs that carry deep messages, Silente guarantees a concert to remember. Their authorial expression and passionate performance create an unrepeatable atmosphere, and the audience will have the opportunity to hear live hits like "Terca na tišinu," "Čudna ili čudesna," and newer materials that confirm their status as one of the most important bands of the new generation. These two consecutive concerts perfectly illustrate the programmatic diversity of the event, offering the audience two completely different, yet top-notch musical experiences.

From Frankopan heritage to Dalmatian notes

The central part of July at the Castle brings programs intended for all generations, with a special emphasis on family entertainment and the preservation of cultural heritage. On Thursday, July 17, starting at 7:30 PM, an event is scheduled that will particularly delight the youngest visitors, as well as their parents. It is the puppet show "Three Brothers and Three Towers", which is performed as part of the significant cultural and educational project "On the Routes of the Frankopans". This project aims to revitalize and promote the rich heritage of the Frankopan family, and the show is one of its most charming parts.

The play is based on motifs from a picture book by the esteemed Rijeka author and chronicler Velid Đekić. Through the story of a father who challenges his sons to build three unique towers, it speaks of the universal values of brotherly love, acceptance of diversity, and the importance of unity. Each brother builds a tower that reflects his personality, thus subtly conveying to children the message about the beauty of individuality. In addition, the play, through music and imaginative puppets, also retells the legend of the origin of the Castle on the island of Krk, offering the audience a fun and educational insight into local history and lore. It is particularly important to note that admission to the show is free, which makes cultural content accessible to everyone, making it an excellent opportunity for a family outing for all who are staying in the city, and the search for accommodation in Rijeka can be complemented by this unique cultural experience.

After a journey into the world of legends, the very next day, on Friday, July 18, Trsat Castle once again becomes a musical oasis, this time bathed in Mediterranean sound. The popular pop duo from Split, Dalmatino, arrives on the stage in Nugent Park. The band, consisting of Ivo Jagnjić and Zdravko Sunara, has been sovereignly ruling the radio airwaves and concert stages for more than two decades. Their musical style, which skillfully combines traditional Dalmatian charm with modern pop arrangements, has earned them the status of musical icons whose songs are sung by all generations. Hits like "Cukar i sol," "Dajem ti rič," "Bura okriće," or the newer "Refužo" and "Ljubin ti ruku" have become an indispensable part of every party and romantic evening. They are known for their extremely emotional lyrics and a strong, direct connection with the audience, so an evening filled with communal singing, dancing, and that recognizable Dalmatian sentiment that leaves no one indifferent is expected at Trsat.

A return to the golden age of Rijeka's urban scene

Just a day later, on Saturday, July 19, the Summer at the Castle program brings a real musical treat for all lovers of retro rhythms and those who nostalgically remember the golden age of Rijeka's urban culture. The Milde Sorte Party is on the schedule, an evening dedicated to the legendary Rijeka disco club "Milde Sorte." During the 1970s and 1980s, that club was much more than a place to go out; it was a cult gathering place, the epicenter of the alternative and urban scene, and a symbol of an era in which Rijeka breathed with full lungs. It was a space of freedom, creativity, and the avant-garde, and it is precisely this spirit that will be attempted to be recreated at Trsat Castle.

The musical selection is entrusted to DJ Zdrave, one of the chroniclers of that time and an excellent connoisseur of the music that shook dance floors around the world. Visitors will be transported back in time with the authentic sounds of vinyl records, the sparkle of disco balls, and the unforgettable rhythms of disco, funk, and soul. The Milde Sorte Party is not just an ordinary party; it is a homage to an era, a celebration of Rijeka's identity, and an opportunity for older generations to revive memories, and for younger ones to discover why that period is inscribed in golden letters in the city's history. All who decide to visit Rijeka and find adequate accommodation will have a unique opportunity to experience a piece of that legendary atmosphere under the starry sky of Trsat.

The entire program of the event, as well as all details about tickets, can be followed through the official channels of the Rijeka Tourist Board at the web address visitrijeka.hr/ljeto-na-gradini/. Given the great popularity of the performers and the limited capacity of the space, it is recommended to secure your spot on time and not miss the opportunity to be part of another unforgettable Summer at the Castle.