Douglas C-47
Željava Airbase is an abandoned military complex on the border of Croatia and Bosnia, once one of Europe's largest and most secretive underground facilities. Built during the Cold War, it housed fighter jets and could withstand nuclear attacks. The airbase was intentionally destroyed by the Yugoslav People's Army during the outbreak of the Yugoslav Wars. Today, it has become a popular site for urban exploration and history enthusiasts.
Discover the Željava Airbase with a local guide, learning about its strategic Cold War position and the events leading to the "fall of Yugoslavia". Hear captivating stories and insights while exploring the vast network of aircraft hangars. This tour offers a unique blend of historical education and adventurous exploration.
Zeljava airbase -
Željava, Lika-Senj County, Croatia
The tour will start in front of an abandoned airplane Douglas C-47 Skytrain or Dakota. This wonderful piece of aviation history welcomes curious visitors open-winged. We will use this rare opportunity to climb ON the airplane and explore inside. We'll then proceed to the runways. As we drive cautiously on the endless runways, we'll try to imitate and imagine what it felt like for pilots to take off. Driving across runways, we begin to catch views of a plane-shaped hole in the hill. Reaching the entrance of the tunnels, we are in front of the highlight of the tour. While checking the flashlights, we will get to know the basic information about the object and the safety rules that we need to follow. During our 3-kilometer walk through dark tunnels, we will talk about construction, operational days and destruction of the base. We will cover personal stories and experiences of employees, relationships, and conflicts.The tour will end back at the airplane.
- Duration: 2h
- Flashlights included
- Languages: English, Croatian
- Please contact for private tours or larger groups
- For more information see FAQ