Croatia holidays: Da Vinci canon on display in Benkovac

Archaeologists have discovered that a triple-barrelled cannon found in Croatia 40 years ago may be a Leonardo Da Vinci prototype.

The weapon, from the 15th century, bears a strong resemblance to sketches drawn by the artist and inventor in his Codex Atlanticus.

Unearthed in the grounds of the 15th century Klicevica fortress, it is now on display at a museum in the nearby town of Benkovac.

"We have only recently confirmed the age of our cannon and that it was one designed by Leonardo Da Vinci," said a museum spokesman.

"As far as we know this is the only original cannon designed by Da Vinci left in the world. The triple-barrel canon in the Da Vinci museum in Milan, Italy is for example only a replica."

Travellers can visit the Benkovac Museum to see the artefact during their Croatia tours. The Klicevica fortress also makes for an interesting day trip.