52
Weekends in
Serbia
National Tourism Organisation of Serbia
www.srbija.travel
National Tourism
4. 5.
Organisation of Serbia
6.
8.
7. 3.
www.serbia.travel 9.
2. 12.
14.
13.
1.
19. 20. 21.
22.
25. 26.
38. 37.
40. 41. 39.
15.
17.
24. 23.
11.
10.
16.
35.
36.
18.
27.
30.
28.
31. 32. 34.
29. 33.
42. 43.
44. 46.
45.
47.
50. 49.
Kosovo and Metohija Resolution 1244
1 BELGRADE, MLADENOVAC 2 NOVI SAD, SREMSKI KARLOVCI 3 BAČKI PETROVAC, BAČKA PALANKA, BAČ 4 SUBOTICA, PALIĆ, KANJIŽA 5 SOMBOR, BEZDAN, APATIN 6 BAČKA TOPOLA, TOPOLA, MALI IĐOŠ, SRBOBRAN 7 ODŽACI, KULA, VRBAS 8 KIKINDA, BEČEJ, NOVI BEČEJ 9 ZRENJANIN, ŽABALJ, TITEL 10 PANČEVO, KOVAČICA 11 VRŠAC, BELA CRKVA 12 IRIG, INĐIJA 13 RUMA, PEĆINCI 14 SREMSKA MITROVICA, ŠID 15 TOPOLA, OPLENAC, ARANĐELOVAC 16 KRAGUJEVAC, KNIĆ 17 LJIG, GORNJI MILANOVAC 18 ČAČAK, LUČANI 19 ŠABAC, BOGATIĆ, LOZNICA 20 KRUPANJ, KOCELJEVA, VLADIMIRCI, MALI ZVORNIK 21 OSEČINA, LJUBOVIJA
48.
51. 52.
22 VALJEVO, DIVČIBARE, MIONICA, LAJKOVAC, UB 23 UŽICE, POŽEGA, KOSJERIĆ 24 BAJINA BAŠTA, TARA 25 ČAJETINA, ZLATIBOR 26 NOVA VAROŠ, ZLATAR, PRIJEPOLJE, PRIBOJ 27 IVANJICA, GOLIJA, ARILJE 28 NOVI PAZAR, SJENICA, TUTIN 29 RAŠKA, KOPAONIK 30 KRALJEVO 31 VRNJAČKA BANJA 32 TRSTENIK, ALEKSANDROVAC 33 BRUS, KOPAONIK 34 KRUŠEVAC, VARVARIN, ĆIĆEVAC 35 JAGODINA, ĆUPRIJA 36 PARAĆIN, DESPOTOVAC DESPOTOVAC 37 SMEDEREVO, SMEDEREVSKA PALANKA, VELIKA PLANA 38 POŽAREVAC, KOSTOLAC, MALO CRNIĆE, PETROVAC 39 KUČEVO, ŽAGUBICA
40 VELIKO GRADIŠTE, GOLUBAC 41 DONJI MILANOVAC, MAJDANPEK, KLADOVO 42 BOR, NEGOTIN 43 ZAJEČAR, BOLJEVAC 44 SOKOBANJA 45 NIŠ, ALEKSINAC 46 KNJAŽEVAC, SVRLJIG 47 PIROT, STARA PLANINA 48 VLASOTINCE, BABUŠNICA, DIMITROVGRAD, CRNA TRAVA 49 LESKOVAC, LEBANE, BOJNIK 50 PROKUPLJE, KURŠUMLIJA 51 SURDULICA, VLADIČIN HAN 52 VRANJE, BUJANOVAC
National Tourism
4. 5.
Organisation of Serbia
6.
8.
7. 3.
www.serbia.travel 9.
2. 12.
14.
13.
1.
19. 20. 21.
22.
25. 26.
38. 37.
40. 41. 39.
15.
17.
24. 23.
11.
10.
16.
35.
36.
18.
27.
30.
28.
31. 32. 34.
29. 33.
42. 43.
44. 46.
45.
47.
50. 49.
Kosovo and Metohija Resolution 1244
1 BELGRADE, MLADENOVAC 2 NOVI SAD, SREMSKI KARLOVCI 3 BAČKI PETROVAC, BAČKA PALANKA, BAČ 4 SUBOTICA, PALIĆ, KANJIŽA 5 SOMBOR, BEZDAN, APATIN 6 BAČKA TOPOLA, TOPOLA, MALI IĐOŠ, SRBOBRAN 7 ODŽACI, KULA, VRBAS 8 KIKINDA, BEČEJ, NOVI BEČEJ 9 ZRENJANIN, ŽABALJ, TITEL 10 PANČEVO, KOVAČICA 11 VRŠAC, BELA CRKVA 12 IRIG, INĐIJA 13 RUMA, PEĆINCI 14 SREMSKA MITROVICA, ŠID 15 TOPOLA, OPLENAC, ARANĐELOVAC 16 KRAGUJEVAC, KNIĆ 17 LJIG, GORNJI MILANOVAC 18 ČAČAK, LUČANI 19 ŠABAC, BOGATIĆ, LOZNICA 20 KRUPANJ, KOCELJEVA, VLADIMIRCI, MALI ZVORNIK 21 OSEČINA, LJUBOVIJA
48.
51. 52.
22 VALJEVO, DIVČIBARE, MIONICA, LAJKOVAC, UB 23 UŽICE, POŽEGA, KOSJERIĆ 24 BAJINA BAŠTA, TARA 25 ČAJETINA, ZLATIBOR 26 NOVA VAROŠ, ZLATAR, PRIJEPOLJE, PRIBOJ 27 IVANJICA, GOLIJA, ARILJE 28 NOVI PAZAR, SJENICA, TUTIN 29 RAŠKA, KOPAONIK 30 KRALJEVO 31 VRNJAČKA BANJA 32 TRSTENIK, ALEKSANDROVAC 33 BRUS, KOPAONIK 34 KRUŠEVAC, VARVARIN, ĆIĆEVAC 35 JAGODINA, ĆUPRIJA 36 PARAĆIN, DESPOTOVAC DESPOTOVAC 37 SMEDEREVO, SMEDEREVSKA PALANKA, VELIKA PLANA 38 POŽAREVAC, KOSTOLAC, MALO CRNIĆE, PETROVAC 39 KUČEVO, ŽAGUBICA
40 VELIKO GRADIŠTE, GOLUBAC 41 DONJI MILANOVAC, MAJDANPEK, KLADOVO 42 BOR, NEGOTIN 43 ZAJEČAR, BOLJEVAC 44 SOKOBANJA 45 NIŠ, ALEKSINAC 46 KNJAŽEVAC, SVRLJIG 47 PIROT, STARA PLANINA 48 VLASOTINCE, BABUŠNICA, DIMITROVGRAD, CRNA TRAVA 49 LESKOVAC, LEBANE, BOJNIK 50 PROKUPLJE, KURŠUMLIJA 51 SURDULICA, VLADIČIN HAN 52 VRANJE, BUJANOVAC
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National Tourism Organisation o Serbia
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1.
BELGRADE, MLADENOVAC
All Roads Lead to
Serbia’s capital city is a modern metropolis with a population o over two million. Belgrade’s position at the conuence o the Danube and Sava rivers has made it a strategic port o call at the crossroads o eastern and western civilizations since ancient times. Today, Belgrade is home to Serbia’s most important state, cultural and academic institutions. The city boasts robust industry and good inrastructure. Moreover, Belgrade has become an increasingly popular tourist destination.
some o the best preserved old-ashioned taverns in the city, including “?” which dates back to 1823. The tavern’s name has changed as oten as its owners. Over the years “?” has been called Toma’s Tavern, At the Sheppard and At the Cathedral Church. When its most recent owner ailed to come up with a new name, he temporarily erected a “?” sign on the building’s açade. Eventually its clientele accepted the name and it remains to this day.
SIGHTS
Knez Mihailova: Pedestrian Paradise
Kalemegdan Fortress and Surroundings
Knez Mihailova, Belgrade’s best-known street and pedestrian zone, is located just a ew strides rom Kalemegdan. One o the most vibrant parts o the city, Knez Mihailova eatures shops, residences and national institutions like the Serbian Academy o Sciences and Arts and its Gallery (Galerija SANU) and Albania Palace (Palata Albanija), Belgrade’s rst skyscraper. On this street you will also nd the Belgrade City Library, which is housed in the 1869 Serbian Crown Hotel (Srpska Kruna), the rst European-style hotel in Belgrade. The 1906 Moscow Hotel (Hotel Moskva) and the 1869 Terazije Fountain are both nearby.
Any visit to Belgrade should begin at Kalemegdan Fortress, the city’s most historic site. The ortress, perched on the white rocks above the conuence (Ušće) o the Danube and Sava, has been conquered 77 times and destroyed and rebuilt again and again during its 7,000-year history. Today Kalemegdan’s grounds eature a military museum, an observatory, the Cvi jeta Zuzorić Art Pavilion, a zoo, a promenade, park, picnic area and a sports and amusement park. Just beyond Kalemegdan lies Belgrade’s historic centre, where you can visit the 1831 residence o Princess Ljubica (Kon- Monuments Galore ak kneginje Ljubice), the Cathedral Church (Saborna crkva) Belgrade has erected numerous monuments to honour o St. Michael the Archangel and the Patriarchy (Patrijaršija). the heroes o its long and rich history. Located at Circle NumThe Manak’s House (Manakova kuća), the only reestanding ber Two (Krug dvojke), the monuments include Nikola Tesla, borough home remaining in the city, eatures an impressive Josi Pančić, Svetozar Marković, Dositej Obradović and Vuk ethnological collection. A ew streets away you will nd the Karadžić. The most amous, in honour o Prince Mihailo is loBajrakli Mosque (Bajrakli džamija), the oldest surviving place cated at Republic Square. The monument also marks the beo worship in the city (1660–1668). The neighbourhood boasts ginning o Prince Mihailo Street.
1.
the White City
BELGRADE
The Heart of Belgrade: City Centre, King Alexander Boulevard, the White Court and St. Sava Temple
Republic Square is a avourite central meeting point or locals, and is just down the street rom the National Museum (1903) and the National Theatre (1869). You will nd numerous restaurants and caé gardens are nearby. Skadarlija: Bohemian Wonderland
Skadarlija, Belgrade’s bohemian quarter lies close to the city centre. The neighbourhood ourished in the 19th century when its taverns became popular jaunts or the city’s artists and bohemians. Skadarlija bears a striking resemblance to Paris’s Montmartre neighbourhood. The jovial atmosphere o Skadarlija’s taverns, including Tri šešira (Three Hats), Ima dana (Days to come), Dva jelena (Two Deer), Skadarlija, Zlatni bokal (Golden carae) and Dva bela goluba (Two White Doves), conjure up spirits o Serbia’s past. Enjoy Serbia’s national dishes to the sound o traditional olk music in any o these historic locales.
Belgrade has two royal compounds: the Royal and the White Court are located in the Dedinje neighbourhood, while Pioneers’ Park (Park Pionira) lies in the city centre. Built or Milan Obrenović in 1882, Pioneer’s Park includes the ormer Old Court that is now Belgrade City Hall. Constructed between 1912 and 1920, the New Court is currently the residence o the Serbian presidency. The nearby National Parliament (1907) compliments the royal architecture. St. Mark’s Church (Crkva Svetog Marka) marks the start o Belgrade’s longest street – the amous King Alexander Boulevard (Bulevar kralja Aleksandra). Built in 1935, the church overlooks the entrance to Tašmajdan Park. The church’s crypt contains the tombs o Tsar Stean Dušan, King Aleksandar Obrenović and Queen Draga. There is a small Russian Orthodox Church just behind the church. Nearby, the 23-oor, 100-metre tall Beograđanka building is easily recognisable rom any city corner in Belgrade. The St. Sava Temple (Hram Svetog Save), the largest Christian orthodox temple in the Balkans, lies on the Vračar Plateau. The temple includes the smaller St. Sava Church on its grounds. An impressive monument to Karađorđe is located in ront o this house o worship, while the Serbian National Library lies on the right side o the grounds. Belgrade has a plethora o museums, all o which are open to the public and even during the evenings every autumn and spring, during the Night o the Museums. New Belgrade and Zemun
Cross the Sava into New Belgrade (Novi Beograd) and you will nd yoursel in the city’s new central business district. New Belgrade eatures the impressive Belgrade Arena and the Sava conerence centre, home to a plethora o events year-round. Formerly known as Taurunum, present day Zemun is located beside the mighty Danube. It is named ater the dugouts (zemunice) which housed Zemun’s rst settlers. Zemun’s most appealing sights include Gardoš, the Sundial House, the Karamata Family
WE RECOMMEND: – A tour o Kalemegdan Fortress – Lunch near the Miloš Residence (Milošev konak) in Topčider Park – Swimming and sunbathing at Sava Lake
1.
БЕОГРАД, МЛАДЕНОВАЦ
House, the Ičko House, the Spirta House Museum, the House o Dimitrije Davidović, the Nikolajevska Church, the 18th century Church o the Holy Trinity and, along the riverbank, the Old Port Authority Building. Nearby is a splendid promenade dotted with sh restaurants.
ACTIVITIES Festivals, Recreation and Nightlife
Belgrade has a wide array o accommodation acilities, ranging rom the most luxurious hotels to high quality hostels, all o which meet the needs o the city’s visitors. Belgrade also hosts some o the most intriguing events and estivals, including BELEF, BEMUS, FEST and the Short Film Festival. In the past ew years Belgrade has gained prominence or hosting the Boat Carnival in August, the Belgrade Marathon, Bicycle Race, Rollerblade Race (Rolerijada) and Belgrade Beer Fest. Belgrade has some o the best nightlie in Europe, particularly on the oating restaurants and nightclubs o the Sava, Danube and Ada Ciganlija. A partial peninsula on the River Sava some our kilometres rom the city centre, Ada Ciganlija (Isle o Gypsy)
ROMAN WELL
is one o Belgrade’s most popular spots. Boasting over 50 sports acilities, Ada even has a gol course and cable waterskiing. The Belgrade Boat Company manages three large boats. The Yachting Club has two catamarans with seating capacities o 70 and 100, while there are also two luxurious boats: Sirona and Danuvije. You can experience Belgrade by driting over the cityscape in a hot air balloon and can also practice any number o sports in the city’s approximately 1,000 sporting acilities. Museum quality vintage trains will transport you to a number o destinations originating in Belgrade. Experience a steam engine ride to Sremski Karlovci, Novi Sad, Palić, Vršac, Požarevac, Smederevo or Vrnjačka Banja on the Romance (Romantika) train. Josip Tito’s Blue Train (Plavi voz) will take you to Užice, Subotica or Vrnjačka Banja. Green Belgrade
Belgrade has an impressive 15 hunting grounds and approximately 65 public parks, including Kalemegdan, Tašmajdan, Studentski, Karađorđev, Park prijateljstva (Friendship Park), Hajd Park, Topčider and Košutnjak. Košutnjak Park, known as the Lungs o the City, eatures two unique grounds: the Sports and Recreational Centre Pioneer City (Pionirski grad) and Film City (Filmski grad), with various acilities or shooting movies. When building his residence in 1831, Prince Miloš also
Located at Kalemegdan ortress behind King’s Gate, the Roman Well dates back to 1721, when it was reconstructed by occupying Austrians to gain its present day appearance. Dug into the rock o the ortress, it is 62 metres deep and 10 metres below the water level o the Sava and Danube. The brick layered ground level is accessible via a spiral staircase.
1. BELGRADE
T O Bd Mkv 5/IX, 11000 Bd T: +381 11 3061 400 E-: @.c. www.v-d.c T I C Kz Mhv T: +381 11 3281 859 E-: .kzhv@.c. T I C M wy T: +381 11 3612 732 E-: .c@.c. T I C Sv P (Mch–Nv) T: +381 11 3288 246 E-: .p@.c. planted a garden. Today it is known as Topčider Park, which overlooks Košutnjak. The original trees planted to surround the residence are still thriving. Just outside the city, Kovilovo is an exclusive retreat and recreation acility, which eatures ootball, basketball, handball and tennis courts. The acility also boasts two superior shooting ranges.
T O Mdvc Kj P I 175, 11400 Mdvc T: +381 11 8244 000, 8244 001 E-: d@.c. www..c.
BEYOND BELGRADE: EXPLORING VINČA, MLADENOVAC AND MOUNT AVALA Vinča
The Tourism Organisation o Belgrade recommends a visit to Vinča. Located near Smederevo, Vinča is one o the epicentres o world civilization and dates back to the Neolithic Age. Its ruins reveal a large settlement on the site that lasted thousands o years. Arteacts rom the site are housed in the National Museum, the Belgrade City Museum and the Belgrade Faculty o Philosophy. Mladenovac
The municipality o Mladenovac lies approximately 13 kilometres rom the Belgrade–Niš Highway and is home to the Selters Banja spa. This modern oasis o peace and tranquillity oers an anti-stress weekend programme that is popular with Belgraders. The protected area surrounding Mount Kosmaj, which overlooks Mladenovac, comprises springs, thick orests, meadows and splendid medieval monasteries, including Pavlovac, Tresije and Kastaljan. Mladenovac’s Markovac Lake eatures a sports and recreational centre covering more than 20 hectares.
Mount Avala
Mount Avala was Serbia’s rst public park. Back in the rst hal o the 19th century, Prince Miloš (Knez Miloš) arranged or every type o Serbian tree to be planted on the site. Avala also eatures Ivan Meštrović’s masterpiece, a monument to the Unknown Hero, dedicated to World War I heroes. There you will also nd Belgrade’s emblem, Avala Tower. Though destroyed during the NATO bombing, the tower has now been completely rebuilt and opened to the public.
2.
NOVI SAD, SREMSKI KARLOVCI
Life in Easy magazine. The Serbian National Theatre was built here in the 18th century, coinciding with a boom in the construction industry.
SIGHTS Freedom Square, the Name of Mary Cathedral and City Hall
Freedom Square (Trg Slobode), the city’s central square, eatures the 19th century neo-gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral, named ater the Virgin Mary. Many wealthy Novi Sad citizens donated unds or its construction and today you can visit the tombs o respected noble amilies in the cathedral’s crypt. At Freedom Square you will also nd sculptor Ivan Meštrović’s impressive statue o Svetozar Miletić (1826–1901), one o the city’s most prominent 19th century politicians. Novi Sad City Hall, located behind the cathedral, is an elegant neo-renaissance two-storey structure that is actually a replica o Graz City Hall in Austria. Novi Sad, the capital o Vojvodina, is a city o nearly hal a million inhabitants and the second largest city in Serbia. Known as the Serbian Athens, it is 75 kilometres north o Belgrade – a one-hour drive along Highway E-75 – and is also accessible via boat along the Danube or by train. Despite Novi Sad being a vital economic and administrative centre, lie is particularly laidback in the city. Unlike most European metropolises, here the pace is slow and stress ree. This relaxed atmosphere gives the city an intimate, elegant eel. Novi Sad’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, when the rst settlements emerged along the right bank o the Danube, the site o today’s Petrovaradin Fortress. The city en joyed the status o a ree royal city, bestowed upon it by Empress Maria Theresa in the 17th century. As a result, cultural, educational and artistic lie ourished in Novi Sad. The rst printing house and modern bookstore opened in the same century, while one o the city’s gymnasium schools created the Letopis (Chronicle) Matice Srpske, a modern literary
The Vibrant Streets of Novi Sad
Walk along Njegoševa Street and you will nd the unusual Iron Man (Kod gvozdenog čoveka) building. Named ater the statue o the prince that sits atop it, the building was erected in 1909. Interestingly, the statue predates the build, having served as decoration or the previous building to occupy the site. Zmaj Jovina Street is packed with great places to peruse, including the eclectic Bishop Palace. Behind the palace, at the start o Pašićeva Street, you will nd the beautiul Cathedral Church (Saborna crkva). The church’s gate eatures an exquisite red marble sacramental cross. Dunavska Street is lined with shops. It begins in the city centre and stretches out to the Danube. The nearby Dunavski Park opened in 1895 and is considered the city’s most beautiul park.
WE RECOMMEND: – A stroll along Dunavska Street – Wine tasting at Karlovac’s numerous wine cellars – A ride on the Romance (Romantika) train rom Belgrade
2. BELGRADE
Rhythm BERMET The Fruška Gora vineyards enjoy exceptional conditions or winemaking. As a result, they have gained widespread prominence across central Europe since the middle ages. Fruška Gora has three centres o wine production: Petrovaradin-Sremski Karlovci, Irig and Erdevik. Fruška Gora produces two indigenous grape varieties: Slankamenka and Bermet wine. The latter was served at the Vienna Court and appeared on the wine list o the ill-ated Titanic. Today you can visit the Sremski Karlovci cellar, designed specically or Karlovci vintage wines.
Petrovaradin Fortress: Gibraltar on the Danube
Petrovaradin Fortress (Petrovaradinska tvrđava) is the city’s most popular and attractive cultural and historic site. The Austrians originally built it as a military ort to reinorce their deenses against the Ottomans. Beautiully perched on a high cli, the ortress overlooks the Danube. The our-storey structure, which has been dubbed Gibraltar on the Danube, eatures 16.5 kilometres o underground galleries, 12,000 gun placements and 13 gates.
T O Nv Sd Md 1, 21000 Nv Sd T: +381 21 6617 343, 421 811 E-: @z., @z. www.z. T I C Md Md 1, 21000 Nv Sd T/Fx: +381 21 6617 343 T I C Bv Bv Mh Pp 9, 21000 Nv Sd T: +381 21 421 811, 421 812 E-: @z. T O Sk Kvc Mcpy Pjh Rjčć 1, 21205 Sk Kvc T/Fx: +381 21 882 127, 883 855 E-: @kvc.. www.kvc..
ACTIVITIES Novi Sad has a broad spectrum o accommodation options, including more than 20 hotels, hostels and private accommodation acilities. Novi Sad’s residents welcome visitors rom across the globe. The city hosts a number o high prole events, including the Sterija Theatre Festival (Sterijino pozorje) in May and the Festival o Digital Arts, Alternative and New Theatre in June. The EXIT music estival, also in June, draws over 100,000 music lovers to the city each year.
BEYOND NOVI SAD: SREMSKI KARLOVCI Just 11 kilometres rom Novi Sad and 57 kilometres rom Belgrade lies the quaint city o Sremski Karlovci, which has been a spiritual, cultural and academic centre o Serbia or over 200 years. The city is accessible via car or the Romance Train rom Belgrade. The baroque style buildings surrounding the ountain in the town centre are o immense importance to Serbian history and culture. With its two tall bell towers, the 1 762 Cathedral Church o St. Nicholas (Saborna crkva Svetog Nikole) is a masterpiece iconostas o Serbian baroque. The Patriarchy Palace, the residence o the Srem District Bishop, is considered Vojvodina’s most remarkable 19th century building. According to legend, whoever drinks rom the 1799 Four L ions Well will return to Karlovci to marry. Serbia’s oldest gymnasium school is located here. The area’s vineyards add to its quaint character and beautiul scenery. Sremski Karlovci produces excellent wine and its rustic cellars draw more and more visitors each year. Just 4.5 kilometres rom Karlovci, Stražilovo is teeming with traditional riverside taverns (čarda) and caés. Its open air spaces are ideal or numerous recreational activities.
3.
BAČKI PETROVAC, BAČKA PALANKA, BAČ
Symbols of Heritage WE RECOMMEND: – A bike ride along the Danube – A visit to the well-preserved Gložan settlement on the Danube – Dinner at a traditional tavern
BAČKI PETROVAC Bački Petrovac is 150 kilometres rom Belgrade and 35 kilometres rom Highway E-75 along the Novi Sad–Sombor secondary road.
SIGHTS The surrounding area abounds with er tile land, beautiul orchards, vineyards and sparkling streams that spring rom the Danube. Bački Petrovac has a robust cultural heritage and the town’s centrepiece eature is a well-preserved 18th century house that has been classied as a cultural treasure o Serbia. Bački Petrovac’s main sights include the old church in Kulpin village, the old gymnasium school and the National Museum. The town is comprised o our distinct neighbourhoods that are all steeped in culture, history and tradition. You will want to spend at least a day getting to know this quaint town and its history.
ACTIVITIES The EUROVELO Danube Bicycle Route runs through the Bački Petrovac area, with cycling enthusiasts converging on the route at the rst sign o spring. First held in August 1919, the Slovak Folk Festival has become one o the town’s annual traditions. Bački Petrovac is also home to the Kulen Sausage Festival, which takes place each May. Just 10 kilometres rom Bački Petrovac is Čelarevo, the site o the largest ancient cemetery in Vojvodina, which experts believe dates back to the 8th and 9th centuries. Excavation o the site has uncovered remarkable ancient gold jewellery, weapons and tools.
BAČKA PALANKA – SIGHTS Bačka Palanka lies just beyond Bački Petrovac along the Danube. Its town museum eatures a palaeontology exhibit displaying skeletons o animals ormerly native to Vojvodina. The museum’s prize exhibit is the skeletal remains o a mammoth dating back 25,000 years.
3. BELGRADE
and Tradition ACTIVITIES Local shermen and hunting enthusiasts recommend a visit to the Tikvara and Karađorđevo nature reserves and the Bukinski wetlands (Bukinski rit). This area eatures more than 60,000 hectares o scenic hunting grounds that are particularly well known or the local pheasant. Bačka Palanka is also amous or its Jazz and Blues Festival, which takes place each June. The town also celebrates Danube Day in June.
BAČ – SIGHTS The district o Bač, 140 kilometres rom Belgrade, was named ater the ancient town o Mostonga. Bač rose to prominence in the middle ages, when it served as both the seat o the Archbishop and the district seat. Excavations have revealed that a large Roman settlement existed here, but was probably destroyed by barbarians. One o the town’s major attractions is its 1169 Franciscan abbey, combining elements o Roman and Gothic architecture. Bač is also home to Vojvodina’s rst pharmacy, located in the Gebauer house and still bearing the original shop window and staircase. The Bođani Monastery is located just 13 kilometres rom Bač. The monastery was built by a Dalmatian tradesman named Bogdan beside a spring that was said to have miraculously cured his ailing eyes. You will certainly want to tour Bač’s medieval ortress and locals highly recommend the climb up to the ortress’s Donžon Tower.
ACTIVITIES You will nd a variety o unique souvenirs in the villages o this area and those who preer can try their hand at making a souvenir under the skillul guidance o local cratsmen. Take it home as your reward!
KULEN
T O Bčk Pvc Mcpy Mš T 5-7, 21470 Bčk Pvc T: +381 21 780 478, Fx: +381 21 782 643 E-: z@ckpvc. www.zckpvc.c T O Bčk Pk Mcpy V Mš 8, 21400 Bčk Pk T/Fx: +381 21 6041 336, 753 734 E-: kd@p. www.p. T O Bč Mcpy T Z Đđć 4, 21429 Bč T/Fx: +381 21 772 222 E-: zc@. www.zc.
The Kulen sausage is a speciality o the Bačka District. Local master ches recommend preparing it with choice cuts o pork, either llet or ham. The meat is chopped, not minced, spiced with chili peppers, pepper, garlic and salt. It is then immersed in salt brine, smoked, dried and stored in a dry place. Be aware, however, that this recipe is only a guide. Bačka’s expert ches preer not to reveal the secret ormula o this delectable speciality.
4.
SUBOTICA, PALIĆ, KANJIŽA
Salaš Ranches, Horse SUBOTICA AND LAKE PALIĆ – SIGHTS Subotica is a beautiul stop on the rail route connecting Belgrade, Novi Sad and Budapest. Located in the northernmost corner o Serbia, approximately 180 kilometres rom Belgrade, the city is also accessible via the E-75 Highway. This modern Vojvodina city is also a veritable museum in its own right. Its most prominent buildings include the Synagogue (1902), City Hall (1908), Raichle Palace (1904) and City Library (1894). Designed by Komor and Jakab, Subotica’s beautiul City Hall is the largest in Vojvodina. It was lovingly built by local citizens in 1908 to replace its dilapidated predecessor. The interior decoration alone took two years to complete. Concrete and steel were used to construct Subotica’s 1902 Synagogue, a novelty at the time. Subotica’s 19th century theatre eatures six columns and is characteristic o the neoclassical style. The theatre’s rst perormance took place in 1747 and today you can still see drama perormances here, perormed in both Serbian and Hungarian.
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to Subotica’s Secession buildings – Lunch at a traditional salaš ranch near Kanjiža – A rereshing glass o wine at one o Lake Palić’s wineries
A majority o the buildings in the city centre eature colourul Zsolnay ceramics, which provide a beauty that contributes greatly to Subotica’s allure.
ACTIVITIES Just eight kilometres rom Subotica, Lake Palić (Palićko jezero) is eight kilometres long, 950 metres wide and two metres deep. The lake’s healing waters have attracted visitors since the 19th century, when its rst spa was built. Today the lake is a well-established modern resort eaturing hotels, villas, sporting acilities, three beaches and a zoo. The architects o Subotica City Hall also designed the lake’s water tower, women’s beach, grand terrace, music pavilion and Hotel Jezero. Lake Palić has hosted the Palić International Film Festival since 1992, while the resort is also home to a range o other events, including Dužijanca, Interno and Grape Picking Days (Berbanski dani). Savour Fine Wine and Cuisine Subotica’s Horgoš Sands wine region once ormed the bottom o the region’s prehistoric sea more than two millennia ago. Sandy terrain, a moderate continental climate and highquality vineyards produce a pleasant sot bouquet wine. The ar-
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Stables and Spas ea’s vineyards extend beyond Subotica to Horgoš. The region’s wine beautiully compliments its hardy cuisine: pair merlot with perkelt (venison goulash), rooster stew with cabernet and veal schnitzel & mushrooms with a local avourite, Kadarka wine. Kelebija and Zobnatica: Equestrian Paradise Kelebija, Serbia’s largest horse arm, is home to 70 Lipizzan horses. Here you can enjoy horseback riding and a beautiul carriage ride in a coach dating back to 1700. Carriage rides or wedding guests is a popular tradition in Subotica.
THE TISA BLOOM The River Tisa region comes into bloom in early summer, when owers and clouds o white-winged insects emerge on the river’s surace every June. Called the Tisa ower, the phenomenon sees insects completely cover the river and its banks. They spend their short lives swarming just above the water’s surace. This marvel, which resembles a summer snowall, lasts or two to three days.
Located 30 kilometres rom Subotica, Zobnatica is a must-see destination or the horse enthusiast. Zobnatica has a two-hundred-year horse-breeding tradition. The horse arm eatures a racetrack and training acility, riding school and Fiaker coach and hunting carriages. The complex also has an Equestrian Museum. The Zobnatica Equestrian Games (Zobnatičke konjičke igre) are held here every year in the second week o September. Kanjiža: Rest and Recuperate Kanjiža Municipality was created some 50 years ago through the uniying o parts o the Horgoš, Martonoš and Kanjiža municipalities. Tourism in Kanjiža dates back to 1913, when the Banja Kanjiža spa was built. Today visitors come to enjoy the healing powers o Kanjiža’s thermal baths. This scenic area beside the River Tisa is a popular destination or visitors seeking a tranquil, relaxing getaway. Reerred to as the “town o silence”, Kanjiža has a range o accommodation available (700 beds).
T O Sc T Sd 1, 24000 Sc T: +381 24 670 350 E-: @vc. www.vc. T I C Sc T Sd 1, 24000 Sc T: +381 24 670 350 T O Kjž Mcpy Gv 9, 24420 Kjž T: +381 24 875 414, 854 412 E-: kj@. www.kjz.. T I C Kjž T: +381 24 875 412 T I C Tv T: +381 24 887 136
5.
SOMBOR, BEZDAN, APATIN
The beauty of a slow The elegant town o Sombor lies on the Bačka plain. Located near the Danube, just o Highway E-75 heading towards Budapest, Sombor is 174 kilometres rom Belgrade and 99 kilometres rom Novi Sad.
SIGHTS Sombor’s beautiul town square eatures several baroque-style buildings and its classical 1842 Town Hall. The 19th century Parish Hall exhibits Eisenhut Ferenczi’s huge painting The Battle o Senta. Measuring twenty-eight square metres, it is Serbia’s largest painting. With as many rooms as there are days in the year, the Parish Hall is Sombor’s most impressive structure. During the Habsburg era the town’s central square was dedicated to the Holy Trinity. You will also nd the 18th century Orthodox Church o St. George (Crkva Svetog Georgija) and the Catholic Rectory (Katolički župni dvor) in the town centre. The square’s Pasha Tower has also been restored and now houses the studios o Sombor’s artists. It is impossible to imagine Sombor without its traditional tamburitza players, who represent a symbol o the city dating back centuries. The Fiaker coach is also a key eature o the town. Take one or a spin in the city centre!
CYCLING IN SOMBOR When visiting Sombor you will immediately notice that young and old alike are riding bicycles. Every tavern, shop and ocial building reserves parking or the town’s two-wheelers! The locals’ preerence or bicycles over cars contributes to the relaxed and tranquil atmosphere o this beautiul town.
ACTIVITIES A visit to one o 16 traditional salaš ranches near Sombor is a must! You can enjoy a traditional meal and tour these old-world structures orgotten by time. Contact the local tourism organisation or inormation. Sombor and its surroundings oer a heaven on earth or shing enthusiasts. Top shing sites include the Bački and Bajski canals and the mighty Danube. This stretch o the Danube abounds with low-hanging branches and wetlands. Bezdan is one o teen villages in the vicinity o Sombor. Founded in 1305, its iodide-rich medicinal waters were discovered at the beginning o the last century. Just one litre o Bezdan water contains 2.84 mg o iodide. Today the Banja Bezdan spa has over 100 hotel beds and private accommodation op-
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Fiaker ride tions, while the village also has an eco-classroom or nature lovers. Apatin is located on the let bank o the Danube just 17 kilometres southwest o Sombor. A strong tradition o cratsmanship and trade has existed here since 1700 and the most popular Serbian beer brands have been brewed in Apatin since 1756. According to historical records, some o Budapest’s most amous palaces were constructed with bricks produced in Apatin. Apatin is considered Serbia’s most prominent shing centre. The town is home to several annual events dedicated to shing and sh stew is traditionally prepared during Fisherman’s Night. Apatin is also a paradise or small game, wild boar and deer hunters. I you are an eco-saari enthusiast, you can en joy the great outdoors with a visit to Bestrement, Kupusinski dunavac, Ciganski dunavac or Kandljilja pesak. Apatin is neighboured by the Junaković Banja spa, which eatures a recreation and rehabilitation centre or those suering rom coronary and digestive system ailments. The spa includes swimming pools, sports acilities, saunas and massage therapy treatments.
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the small Montmartre in Sombor’s Pasha Tower – A ride in a Fiaker coach, accompanied by the pleasant sounds o a tamburitza orchestra – A glass (or a pint!) o Apatin beer
T O S T C Lz 1, 25101 S T: +381 25 434 330, 434 350 E-: @v. www.v. T I C S Kj P I 26, 25000 S T: +381 25 420 041 T O Ap Mcpy Pf Šd 2, 25260 Ap T: +381 25 772 555 E-: p@kd.c www.p..
6.
BAČKA TOPOLA, MALI IĐOŠ, SRBOBRAN
Down the Grand SIGHTS Bačka Topola is nestled in the Krivaja River valley near the Belgrade–Novi Sad–Subotica–Budapest Highway. The city is 146 kilometres north o Belgrade. Here you will nd a series o beautiul baroque style buildings. Bačka Topola’s 1905 pseudogothic Catholic Church eatures a 74-metre tower, while other prominent structures include Native House, the Blacksmith-Cartwright workshop and the milling museum located in the old windmill. Mali Iđoš is a quaint village close to Bačka Topola, approximately 138 kilometres rom Belgrade. Its scenic surroundings are perect or hunting. I literature is more your style you can join one o the town’s regularly scheduled literary meetings. The small town o Srbobran is located on the Belgrade–Subotica road just north o Novi Sad, precisely 100 kilometres rom Belgrade. The Grand Bačka Canal (Veliki bački kanal) runs though the city and, thanks in part to its strategic location and rich history, Srbobran is one o Vojvodina’s most developed small towns. The name Srbobran dates back to the 1848 revolution, when the Serbian deensive line was located in this settlement. It means Serbian shield. Srbobran’s rich soil is highly er tile. Some believe this is due to the abundance o water in the area, with the River Krivaja, Grand Bačka Canal and a series o ponds traversing the municipality. Srbobran abounds with underground thermal water sources that are used both or therapeutic purposes and to irrigate the land.
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Bačka Canal TURIJA Srborban attracts the world’s ood lovers during the annual Sausage Festival in Turija, which takes place every year during the last weekend in February. Though there are no hotel acilities in Srbobran, residents ofer accommodation at their homes on salaš ranches.
ACTIVITIES Visitors interested in exploring Bačka Topola’s surroundings should extend their trip to the villages o Turija and Nadalj. Turija is amous or its high quality sausages and annual Sausage Festival (Kobasicijada). The town is named ater the Turija brook on the River Drina, where its inhabitants originate rom. Nadalj most likely received its name rom the sers who lived in this area long ago. The town has an old world eel that is sure to impress with its charm! Bačka Topola and the surrounding area are popular with hunting and shing enthusiasts rom all across the world. The area is rich in rabbit, pheasant and deer. I you are visiting Bačka Topola and are interested in hunting pay a visit to the Krivaja Hunting Grounds.
WE RECOMMEND: – Rabbit hunting in Mali Iđoš – Attending the Sausage Festival (Kobasicijada) in Turija village – A visit to the Flour Milling Museum in Bačka Palanka
T O Bčk Tp Mš T 30, 24300 Bčk Tp T: +381 24 715 310, x. 106 E-: @c. www.p.. C Phyc Edc, Rc d T S T d , 21480 S T/Fx: +381 21 731 279 E-: c.@. www.c..
7.
ODŽACI, KULA, VRBAS
Tradition and SIGHTS Udžak was the rst settlement established by the Ottomans in the 16th century. Today known as Odžaci, it is located on the Novi Sad–Bačka Palanka–Sombor road some 139 kilometres north o Belgrade. The Apatin, Sombor, Kula, Vrbas, Bačka Palanka and Bač municipalities surround Odžaci.
T O Odžc Mcpy Kz Mhjv 28, 25250 Odžc T/Fx: +381 25 5742 212, 5742 308 E-: zdzc@p.k. www.zdzc.
The town o Odžaci has a beautiul central square eaturing the 1821 St. Archangel Mihovil Roman Catholic Church. The town’s museum houses world-renowned arteacts dating back to the Neolithic period, including a red-haired goddess statuette excavated rom the Donja Branjevina site. The statuette is believed to be more than 7,000 years old. The 38cm ame -haired goddess is o particular signicance, with similar gurines rom the era measuring just 15cm in height. Odžaci is surrounded by a series o lakes that were created naturally during the great Danube ood o 1926. The area is a avourite destination or local hunters and sherman. The small town o Kula lies on the banks o the Danube–Tisa Canal near Bačka. Famous or its superb cratsmanship since 1815, Kula is home to a number o tailors, tanners, shoemakers and weavers. You will also nd a hat and wool apparel actory in this charming town. Vrbas, Bačka district’s main urban centre, lies along the Belgrade–Novi Sad–Subotica– Budapest railway and the Srbobran–Vrbas–Sombor Highway. Vrbas, which neighbours Kula, is 125 kilometres rom Belgrade and 44 kilometres rom Novi Sad. Though close to the Danube and Tisa rivers, the city also has its own river, the Crna Bara (Black Marsh). Though renamed Titov Vrbas (Tito’s Vrbas) ollowing World War II, it reclaimed its original name in the late 1990s. Like many other cities in Vojvodina the area now occupied by Vrbas was once marshland. The city’s architecture is more central European than Byzantine and Vrbas boasts six churches o dierent denominations, including Serbian Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Reormation, Ruthenian, Evangelist
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Craftsmanship
WE RECOMMEND:
and Methodist. Other prominent structures include several striking villas owned by wealthy industrialists, the Vodice Chapel and the Joze Kiš monument.
– An inspection o the Neolithic Red-Haired Goddess statuette in Odžaci – A visit to a Kula weaving mill – Sampling Hunter’s Steak in gravy (lovačke šnicle) in Vrbas
You will nd a collection o World War II mementos at Bapa’s Base (Bapina baza) in Vrbas. The house which belonged to Dragutin Radanov Bapa and his ve children served as the secret headquarters or the partisans during WWII. In the backyard you will nd a second 19th century Serbian village house.
ACTIVITIES Vrbas has a long tradition o hunting. The grounds in the area o Savino Selo and Kucura are especially well suited or rabbit hunting. Vrbas is also renowned or its exquisite cuisine. Enjoy a ew traditional dishes during your visit!
THE GREEN MARKET Vrbas has beautiul green markets. Visit the small market (Mala pijaca) on the corner o Main (Glavna) and Njegoševa streets on Wednesdays. I you are in town on a Saturday, stroll through the Grand Market (Velika pijaca) near Vinogradski Bridge.
8.
KIKINDA, BEČEJ, NOVI BEČEJ
Places of Kikinda is the administrative centre o North Banat District and lies 130 kilometres rom Belgrade. Located in the heart o Banat, the city is well connected to the rest o Serbia.
SIGHTS Here you will nd archaeological sites around every corner, testiying to the act that settlements have existed in the Kikinda area since 5000 B.C. The city’s centre has several attractions, including the 1894 City Hall, with its high tower and the Kikinda crest adorning its açade. The beautiul 1908 Lepedat Villa is located on Glavna Street. You will nd the city’s museum in the Curie building, which has a rich collection o archaeological arteacts. The nearby Church o St. Nicholas (1769) eatures a distinctive sundial on its southern wall. A visit to Kikinda’s Stara Suvača, a traditional horse-powered mill, is a must! The structure is one o the last two remaining in Europe. Once used to grind grain, the mill is now a venue or theatrical perormances and concerts. The Narvik Hotel is Kikinda town centre’s key eature. Its beautiul architecture will inspire your stay, though i you preer you can opt to stay at one o Kikinda’s private mansions.
ACTIVITIES A visit to any o the villages around Kikinda will reveal traces o ancient civilisations and the warm hospitality o today’s locals. Every year an egg cracking competition is organised on Easter Sunday in the village o Mokrin, where traditional Gander Fights also take place.
T O Kkd Mcpy T pkh dvjc 21, 23300 Kkd T: +381 230 26 300 E-: j.c@kkd.. T O Bčj Mcpy T đj 1, 21220 Bčj T: +381 21 6910 404 E-: cj@.c www.cj.c T I C Bčj T: +381 21 6910 444 T I C Nv Bčj Svz Mć , 23272 Nv Bčj T: +381 23 773 522 E-: cvcj@.c www.vcj.
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Memories WE RECOMMEND:
– A tamburitza serenade (tamburaši) – Taking part in the Easter egg cracking competition (Tucinijada) in Mokrin – A night at Dunđerski Castle Kikinda also celebrates the humble pumpkin every autumn, with the Days o Ludaja Festival (ludaja – a variety o pumpkin) taking place in the rst weekend in October. During these estive days Kikinda’s streets are overrun with pumpkins. Though nobody knows exactly why it is called ludaja, we can only guess it is a tribute to the noble pumpkin. Bečej is a small town on the River Tisa 120 kilometres rom Belgrade. The city’s Trg Oslobođenja (Liberation Square) eatures a number o prominent buildings, including City Hall, the Baroness Euemija Jović Foundation and the 1851 Orthodox Church. The main square is actually circular and is reerred to inormally as the Pogača (round loa ). Regular visitors to Banat claim that the cuisine and accommodation in Bečej are exquisite. Industrialist Bogdan Dunđerski built a striking castle 14 kilometres rom Bečej at the beginning o 20th century and today the structure houses an expansive resort on 65 hectares o land. It eatures a small amily chapel and horse stables which were once home to 1,400 horses. On the opposite side o the Tisa is Novi Bečej, which lies some 113 kilometres rom Belgrade. The town’s historical records indicate that a great re o 1886 devastated over a third o the settlement’s area. Fortunately, the remains o a 14th century basilica in Arace, 14 kilometres rom the centre o the municipality, remain intact. Near Novi Bečej you will nd the largest hydro structure on the Danube–Tisa–Danube, a large concrete dam eaturing seven spillways and a navigation dock. The Danube–Tisa–Danube Canal is also home to the Eiel Lock, an example o one o the most outstanding technical achievements rom the beginning o the 20th century. Reerred to as the Šlajz by locals, it was built out o bare necessity at the conuence o the Grand Bačka Canal and the River Tisa to protect Novi Bečej rom the regular ooding it used to ace. Though no one knows or certain whether the navigation lock was actually built by the amous Eiel, the design strongly resembles the Eiel Tower in Paris. Novi Bečej also eatures abundant hunting grounds and the Sokolac resort. The town is well connected to the rest o the region and is amous or its sh stew culinary competition and International Art Camp every summer.
MAMMOTH In 1996 archaeologists excavated a well-preserved mammoth skeleton in the clay deposits o the Toza Marković actory. The skeleton, discovered by accident some 20 metres underground, measures our metres in height, seven metres in length and is three metres wide. Today it is helping scientists unravel clues to its existence.
9.
ZRENJANIN, ŽABALJ, TITEL
Historic Buildings, Ar WE RECOMMEND: – A therapeutic massage at Banja Rusanda spa – A photo-saari in Žabalj – A drink at one o the caes along Zrenjanin’s promenade
ZRENJANIN – SIGHTS
Just 73 kilometres rom Belgrade, Zren janin is the largest city in Banat District. This attractive urban hub was once called Veliki Bečkerek and is accessible via both Novi Sad and Belgrade. The baroque style City Hall (1820) dominates the quaint central Freedom Square and the building was recently restored to its original beauty. The City Hall complex eatures the vibrant City Garden, which boasts numerous ountains, statues and pavilions. Locals ock to this beautiul space or un and relaxation. The 1874 Roman Catholic St. John o Nepomuk Cathedral is a striking NeoRomantic structure with bells that were specically designed to ensure their tolls could be heard just to the edge o the city limits. The 1894 National Museum Palace, ormerly the Finance Palace, and the Toša Jovanović National Theatre, home to the oldest stage in Serbia, are Zrenjanin’s most extraordinary buildings. A visit to the chapel beside Zrenjanin’s Temple o the Presentation o the Virgin Mary (Vavedenjski hram) will reveal the remains o Raail Banatski, a canonised Hilandar missionary and miracle worker. According to legend, medicinal water owed rom an old elm tree ollowing Banatski’s death.
ACTIVITIES A stroll down Freedom Square to King Alexander and First streets will lead you to a number o restaurants and caés. Here you will also nd the Bece, Panji, Kovač and Tuner Palace, also known as Scheherazade or its unique Moorish building style. Explore urther and you will discover Renaissance Palace and the homes o two o Zrenjanin’s amous tradesmen, Jakšić and Stagelschmidt. They all hold interT C Zj esting snippets o the city’s history. Kč Kv 68, 23101 Zj Zrenjanin has eight public parks, ve squares and ten bridges. Built in 1904, T: +381 23 523 160, Fx: +381 23 523 the pedestrian Little Bridge is the city ’s oldest and most charming bridge. 161 Zrenjanin has our major hotels, a number o motels and several highly E-: c@zj. developed private accommodation acilities. Check with the local tourism www.zj. organisation or reservation deT I C tails. Zj I you are Sćv 1, 23101 Zj looking or a reT: +381 23 581 890 laxing getaway, E-: cz@zj. a visit to the www.zj. nearby Banja Rusanda spa is T O a must. Located Žj Mcpy in Melenci on T Sv Sv 3, 21230 Žj the shores o T: +381 21 831 688 Rusanda Lake, E-: @zj-., the spa is o the ckzcjzj@yh. road leading to c Novi Bečej and www.zj-. boasts spa treat-
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chaeological Sites CARSKA BARA Just 10 kilometres rom Zrenjanin is the Carska Bara nature reserve, eaturing 240 species o rare birds, including the whitetailed eagle, the marsh harrier, the sparrow hawk, buzzard and heron. This 1,767-hectare marshland is recognised as a UNESCO world heritage distinction site.
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ments and sporting acilities. You can also savour local sh cuisine at the spa’s restaurant. The unique Tiganija ethno-resort lies 15 kilometres rom the city just o the Zrenjanin–Belgrade road. The resort oers overnight accommodation acilities and a restaurant. Tiganija is an increasingly popular destination or keen birdwatchers. Zrenjanin hosts the annual Beer Days (Dani Piva) estival on the last Sunday o August, eaturing the bottoms-up competition. The city is also home to the Banat Diligent Hands (Banatske vredne ruke) event, which eatures handmade crats and Banat cuisine.
ŽABALJ – SIGHTS As you leave Zrenjanin towards Novi Sad, why not stop and visit Žabalj? The town’s most beautiul building is the Temple o the Holy Father Nikolai (Hram Svetog Oca Nikolaja). This baroque style temple eatures unique icons crated rom colourul stones.
ACTIVITIES Visitors seeking a quiet bird watching retreat should head or the Jegrička Valley (Dolina Jegričke), Serbia’s marshlands. The valley is a perect location or a photo saari, while the nearby Stara Tisa hunting grounds are rich in deer and small game. Golng enthusiasts will soon be able to play Serbia’s rst proessional gol course near Žabalj, with construction o the course nearly complete.
TITEL – SIGHTS The small town o Titel is easily accessible rom Begej, Belgrade, Novi Sad and Zrenjanin. The quickest route is via the South Bačka district motorway rom Novi Sad towards Banat District. The town, which dates back to the Roman Period, is rich in history. Stroll through Titel and you will uncover remnants o various civilisations that have let their mark here over the centuries.
ACTIVITIES One o the city’s main attractions is the native house o Mileva Marić Einstein. Here you will also discover Titelski breg (Titel Hill), a peculiar geologic ormation rising above the Vojvodina plain. Remarkably rich ora and auna surround the unusual ormation. The Feudvar archaeological site, which eatures arteacts rom the Iron and Bronze ages, is accessible via boat rom the Tisa and Begej heading towards Mošorin. Head to Titel and enjoy rowing, sailboating, paragliding and camping. Titel also eatures a regatta, an eco-camp and horse racing.
10.
PANČEVO, KOVAČICA
Tradition in WE RECOMMEND: – A stroll along the River Tamiš – A visit to the Starčevo archaeological site – Purchasing a naïve painting in Kovačica
T O Pčv Skč 2, 26101 Pčv T: +381 13 351 366 E-: c@pcv. www.pcv. T O Kvčc Mcpy Mš T 50, 26210 Kvčc T: +381 13 660 460 E-: c@k.. www.k..
PANČEVO – SIGHTS
ACTIVITIES
Pančevo lies on the conuence o the Tamiš and Danube rivers, just 13 kilometres rom Belgrade. A typical southern Banat city, Pančevo is an industrial hub with a laidback character.
The Vojlovica Monastery is just ve kilometres northeast o Pančevo towards Starčevo. According to legend, this beautiul monastery was erected in 1393 ollowing the Battle o Kosovo.
Downtown Pančevo eatures several striking buildings, including the Roman Catholic St. Karl the Boromeian Cathedral. This structure is actually the renovated house o Count Maruso, built in 1722. With its mighty domes, high bell towers and intricate treasures, the Transguration Church is one o the symbols o Pančevo. The temple eatures stunning hand painted icons by Uroš Predić. Another o Pančevo’s main attraction is the 19th century Ascension Church. Karađorđe himsel provided the wooden timber necessary to re the bricks used to build the temple.
Pančevo’s beer brewing tradition dates back to 1722. Why not sample one o the local beers at one o Pančevo’s many sh ood restaurants and caes along the banks o the Tamiš?
Pančevo became a powerul industrial centre during the 1960s and ‘70s. The town has a nitrogen plant, oil renery, aeroplane actory, plastic manuacturing, glass and light bulb production. The region surrounding Pančevo is steeped in history. Arteacts discovered here reveal a mysterious prehistoric culture known as Starčevačka, named ater the present day Pančevo District town o Starčevo. The culture was thought to have been incredibly rich and prominent.
Located 13 kilometres rom Kovin, Deliblato Sands is a unique European phenomenon. This magnicent nature reserve o sand dunes eatures a unique preserved ecosystem o rare auna. The area is protected by the state as an area o geographic signicance.
KOVAČICA – SIGHTS Located 50 kilometres north o Belgrade, Kovačica is re-
nowned or its ethnic Slovak community and their naïve painting tradition. The surrounding area is beautiul, oering views o elds o sunowers as you drive toward the town, which eatures a quaint central park and church. Take a stroll through the city and you will notice that every home is marked with a plate displaying its owner and the year it was built.
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Naïve Painting ACTIVITIES Kovačica’s naïve painting tradition began in 1939 when two locals, Martin Paluška and Jan Sokol, started creating art in this style. As the movement ourished, Paluška, Sokol and other gited residents established a painting club in the 1950s. Without ormal training o any kind, they gathered interested villagers rom Kovačica, Padina and other neighbouring towns and created a specic style, painting scenes rom daily lie. Kovačica’s rst exhibition o naïve painting took place in 1952. Three years later the rst Gallery o Naïve Art was established. The tradition continues to this day.
PAINTING SCHOOL The Kovačica School o Naïve Painting was made amous by Zuzana Halupova, Martin Jonaš and other artists and is now a worldrenowned centre. Though you can visit the Gallery o Peasant Painters and the amous Babka Gallery, you will be happy to discover that nearly every home in this adorable village eatures a gallery exhibit.
11.
VRŠAC, BELA CRKVA
Carpathian VRŠAC – SIGHTS The City o Vršac is 84 kilometres rom Belgrade o Highway E-70. Famed or its high winds, scenic surroundings and beautiul vineyards, this city is nestled in the Carpathian hills just a 10-minute drive rom Serbia’s border with Romania. Vršac is also accessible via the Vienna–Budapest–Belgrade–Bucharest rail route and those eeling adventurous can even y into Vršac’s small airport. The city’s most prominent historical buildings date back to the 18th century. A ew outstanding examples include the baroque Bishop’s Palace, the St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, the neo-gothic St. Gerhard Roman Catholic Church, the Magistrates Court and Jovan Sterija Popović House. The City Museum is home to an extensive archaeological collection rom the Vatin, Dubovac and Židovar sites. The old pharmacy on Kumanovska and Stevana Nemanje is known as the Pharmacy Under the Stairway (Apoteka pod stepenicama), due to its location directly under a set o stairs. The structure dates back to the mid-18th century, when Vršac’s oldest pharmacy At the Saviour (Kod spasitelja) opened its doors. In 1965 the building became part o the City Museum. Vršac is a generally modern city with developed inrastructure, strong institutions, sports, healthcare acilities and a robust economy. The city is home to a number o companies, including Hemoarm Pharmaceuticals, the Vršac Vineyards, Vršac Brewery and the Banat conectionery company. The city is also home to the JAT Airways Flight Academy, where numerous cadets rom all over the Balkans come to train.
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Vršac vineyards – A hike up Vršac Hill Tower – A visit to Bela Crkva during the anual Flower Parade
ACTIVITIES Built in the 15th century, the Hill Tower (Kula Breg) rises high above the city. Hike along its path and you will be rewarded with a spectacular view. Vršac is an ideal destination or sports enthusiasts. The city’s modern Millennium Dome is an outstanding acility with plenty o opportunities to practice and enjoy a variety o spectator sports. The people o Vršac are proud o their traditions. Its wineries welcome all wine lovers to participate in the Vršac Grape Harvest (Vršačka berba grožđa), which is held annually during the third weekend o September. The city also hosts the International Folk Dance Festival, which takes place every summer.
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Breezes
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BELA CRKVA – SIGHTS The beautiul small town o Bela Crkva is just 35 kilometres south o Vršac near the Romanian border. Several bodies o water, including the Neva River, the Danube–Tisa–Danube Canal and a number o small lakes surround the city, which is sometimes reerred to as the Venice o Vojvodina. Bela Crkva’s centre eatures several baroque açades and the town’s museum has existed since 1877. A public park marks the entrance to 1st October Street (Ulica Prvog oktobra) heading north. Rising behind the Roman Catholic Church is Kalvarija Hill, which oers a stunning view o the town and the ridges o the Carpathian Mountains.
ACTIVITIES Bela Crkva in summer is decorated with owers as it hosts
the 100-year-old traditional Flower Parade (Karneval cveća). Locals love the town’s clean air and Bela Crkva’s pristine nature. The town’s manmade crystal clear lakes oer a perect opportunity to relax and swim, while a well-maintained beach o the town centre also oers plenty o un and recreation.
VRŠAC VINEYARDS Vršac has a rich vineyard tradition with an interesting history. European courts served Vršac wine as ar back as the 15th century and there is strong evidence suggesting that Ancient Romans and Dacians harvested grapes in this area. Close to Vršac is the small village o Gudurice, one o the region’s biggest producers o grapes and wine. The grape quality here is superior and includes leading brands like Smederevka, Dinka, Slankamenka, Portugieser and Kreatza. The grapes are grown in lanes and are specically positioned to withstand the region’s low temperatures. The so-called Košava East Wind blows an average o 260 days a year and serves as a natural umigation system or the vines, protecting them against diseases and pests.
T O Všc Mcpy T pd 1, 26300 Všc T: +381 13 832 999, 831 055 E-: vc@yh.c www..vc.c T O B Ckv Mcpy Pk 2, 26340 B Ckv T/Fx: +381 13 851 777 E-: c@. www.ckv.
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IRIG, INĐIJA
Land of IRIG – SIGHTS
WE RECOMMEND:
Just 55 kilometres rom Belgrade, Irig Municipality – A visit to the Fruška Gora monasteries – A dip in the Banja Vrdnik thermal spa is easily accessible via the Novi Sad–Irig–Ruma mo– A visit to the ethno-house in Maradik torway, just o Highway E-70. According to historical records, Irig was one o the largest cities in the Srem District until 1795, when the dreaded plague halved its population. Today it is a small but charming Vojvodina town. The town centre’s three spectacular 18th century orthodox churches are reminiscent o a more prosperous era. The Church o St. Nicholas, the most picturesque o the three, was built in 1722 to resemble the nearby Hopovo Monastery. The structure’s 1760 iconostas engravings are among the most interesting examples o the period.
ACTIVITIES Located just seven kilometres north o Irig along the Fruška Gora ridge, Iriški Venac is one o the area’s most popular daytrip destinations. Along with Fruška Gora National Park, Irig is part o the so-called zone o relics. With its scenic landscapes and historical monuments, this is one o the most appealing spots or visitors to Vojvodina. Also known as the Holy Mountain o Athos o the North, Fruška Gora is home to 17 orthodox monasteries that were built between the 15th and 18th centuries. The Krušedol Monastery is the mausoleum o the Srem amily o Branković and home to the most precious treasures o all monasteries in Fruška Gora, while the equally impressive Grgeteg Monastery is linked to the Branković despots and Hopovo Monastery represents the largest and most monumental structure o the late medieval Serbian churches. Irig also oers plenty o options or rest and relaxation. Visit the Banja Vrdnik thermal spa, the site o a ormer mine, to unwind. Vrdnik’s picturesque streets are lined with identical homes that once belonged to local miners. Mineral water springs were discovered when Vrdnik was still a mining town. However, with most o the mines now closed Vrdnik is better known or its soothing thermal spas. With its charming Fruška Gora vineyards, the Srem region is among the most spectacular areas in Serbia. Fruška Gora produces supreme quality wines that you can sample at over 60 private wine cellars scattered throughout the monasteries and villages o the region. Pay a visit to the villages o Čerević, Neštin, Banoštor and Erdevik or an unorgettable wine tasting experience.
INĐIJA – SIGHTS Known as the heart o eastern Srem, the Inđija Municipality is just 42 kilometres rom Belgrade. With 27 kilometres o the Danube owing through the region, Inđija is bound to one day become a suburb o the rapidly expanding cities o Novi Sad and Belgrade. Though Inđija has all the right criteria to become a bustling metropolis, it is still a very traditional Srem town. Inđija’s town centre eatures several classicist, secessionist and neo-renaissance style structures. They include the City Hall, Vojnović House, St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church,
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Relics
BELGRADE
the Presentation o the Virgin Mary Orthodox Church and a number o private homes and açades. The urban town centre was built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the town underwent a period o rapid industrial development and population growth. Inđija eatures a brand new pedestrian zone that has become quite popular with the city’s younger generation.
ACTIVITIES Stari Slankamen is a key part o the region’s rich heritage. Home to Srem’s oldest church, the 1468 St. Nicholas Orthodox Church that served as a model or the construction o all other churches in the Srem region, nearby you can visit an ancient salt water spring spa and the ruins o a Celtic period Acuminicum ortress. A visit to the Maradik Ranch near Inđija oers an ideal opportunity to amiliarise yoursel with the traditions o the Srem District. The site includes an ethno-house eaturing over 200 exhibits and a charming ethnorestaurant serving some o the region’s most delectable specialities. Inđija Municipality also has a long tradition o grape and wine production and is home to the Vojvodina Wine Fair that takes place each March. I you happen to visit Inđija in May you will experience the Srem Horseshoe Competition (Sremska potkovica), when arming amilies rom across the region take part in horsedrawn coach races.
T O I Mcpy Rk 16, 22406 I T: +381 22 461 126 E-: .@p.k. www... T I C Vdk Kđđv 6, 22408 Vdk T: +381 22 465 466 T O Iđj Mcpy C Dš 1, 22320 Iđj T: +381 22 510 970 E-: z@djj. www.djj-.
WINE An unusual combination o climactic phenomena ensure that the wine producing process in Irig and Fruška Gora is extraordinarily unique. The sunny hills o Fruška Gora ace the misty waters o the Danube, creating a unique microclimate. The grapes here undergo a seven-month vegetation period and a ve-month hibernation period. Some suggest that these conditions are the reason that wine produced here contains two percent more sugar than wine made anywhere else in Vojvodina. Grape varieties cultivated here include the indigenous Vranac, old Portuguieser, domestic Župljanka (o Prokupac and Black Burgundy), Neoplanta (o Smederevka and Red Traminac), Sila (o Kevedinka and Chardonnay), Liza (o Grey Burgundy and Kunleanj) and Petra (Black Burgundy and Kubrat). Recommended varieties or this area include Italian and Rhine Riesling, Traminac, Sauvignon, Neoplanta and Župljanka.
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RUMA, PEĆINCI
Life Investment
RUMA – SIGHTS Located in the heart o Srem not ar rom the southern oothills o Fruška Gora, Ruma is 65 kilometres rom Belgrade and 35 kilometres rom Novi Sad just o the main Belgrade–Zagreb Highway. Ruma is also a stop on the Belgrade–Zagreb railroad. Ruma has a rich and colourul history. The city experienced a period o rapid development during the 1920s and ‘30s, when cultural, economic and political lie ourished as banks, printing presses, shops and movie theatres began to spring up. It was during this period that Ruma became an important economic centre.
By 1933 the city had developed into the Former Yugoslavia’s largest grain market. The City Museum is home to a varied collection o exhibits depicting the lie and history o the people o Srem. Stroll through Ruma and you will come across the city’s historic 1758 St. Nicholas Orthodox Church and 1761 Vaznesenjska Church, dedicated to the Ascension o the Lord. A visit to the Gomolava archaeological site at Hrtkovci, which eatures arteacts rom the Paleolithic and Early Neolithic periods, is a must!
ACTIVITIES
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Bread Museum in Pećinci – Bathing in the Sava at Kupinovo – A trip to the artists’ colony
Those seeking un and recreation should head to the Borkovac Lake just outside the city. Here you will nd all the comort required or a relaxing trip. Ruma Municipality also manages two well-equipped hunting grounds: Karakuša and Morović. Every summer Ruma’s residents organise a traditional Watermelon Festival (Bostanijada), Tamburitza Orchestra Festival, Artists’ Colony and a local Amateur Theatre Festival.
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PEĆINCI – SIGHTS Pećinci’s strategic location close to Belgrade’s Nikola Tesla Airport and the Belgrade–Zagreb Highway has attracted both oreign and domestic investment. Today Pećinci receives the highest level o greeneld investment per capita o any municipality in Serbia. Šimanovci is the municipality’s well-known industrial zone, where European and other global companies have set up businesses. Apart rom its booming economy, Pećinci also oers a range o beautiul destinations, ranging rom charming villages to scenic nature spots. Visit the village o Kupinovo and explore St. Luke’s Church (Crkva Svetog Luke), the 15th century royal church o the House o Branković. The main square o the village is also an ethno-park that showcases traditional construction techniques.
ACTIVITIES Those craving some delicious cuisine can sample the delicacies o one o several local restaurants in lower Srem’s Pećinci Municipality. I you are seeking a quiet spot to enjoy the great outdoors, why not head to the nature reserve surrounding the Obedska Pond, just 35 kilometres rom Belgrade along the River Sava? The reserve encompasses the villages o Jakovo, Progar and Kupinovo and is listed as one o UNESCO’s natural habitats. A visit to the small island in the centre o the Obedska Pond will reveal the ruins o the medieval Kupinik Fortress. This 15th century structure once belonged to Despot Stean Lazarević and the House o Branković. For details o overnight accommodation and restaurant acilities, contact one o the area’s tourism organisations.
Pćc Mcpy Sd Bjć 5, 22410 Pćc T: +381 22 400 700, Fx: +381 22 400 792 T O R Gv 172, 22400 R T.: +381 22 470 655 E-:.@.c
BREAD MUSEUM Painter Slobodan Jeremić, also known as Deda Jeremija (Grandpa Jeremija) established the Bread Museum in Pećinci some 15 years ago. Jeremić spent 30 years visiting around 750 Serbian villages to gather exhibit pieces beore he built the museum in his amily home. He dedicated the museum, which eatures over 2,000 exhibits and displays 96 diferent ceremonial breads, to St. Nicholas. The exhibited breads are classifed according to occasion, including Christmas, Easter, amily saints’ days, weddings and unerals.
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SREMSKA MITROVICA, ŠID
Cities founded SREMSKA MITROVICA – SIGHTS Located in northwestern Serbia some 74 kilometres rom Belgrade o Highway E70, Sremska Mitrovica lies beside the Srem and Mačva plains in the oothills o Fruška Gora. Modern Sremska Mitrovica was once known as Sirmium and was a prominent centre o Christianity during the Roman period. Strategically located along several key roads on the shores o the Danube, the settlement ourished into a bustling centre o culture and trade. Sirmium’s remarkable imperial palace eatured heated oors and walls skilully decorated with mosaics and rescoes. The palace complex also comprised thermal baths, crop elds, residential areas and orts. Roman philosopher Emperor Marcus Aurelius died here. Though some remnants o Sirmium’s grandeur are still visible to visitors to modern Sremska Mitrovica, a large part o the ancient town remains underground. You will nd the most interesting excavations at Nikola Pašić Square in the city centre and on the corner o Pivarska and Branko Radičević streets. Nikola Pašić Square, once known as Grain Square, is adorned with several beautiully crated 19th-century tradesmen’s homes. Some o the homes eature German-style semi-circular gables, a testament to the inuence o the Habsburg Empire here. The Ottomans built the modest St. Stean Church close to the square in the 16th century. Its small wooden tower was added much later.
The Srem District museum comprises two complexes in Sremska Mitrovica. The Pinki Street annex across rom the Sirmium Hotel exhibits icons and paintings dating back through the last three centuries. The second annex to St. Stean Street eatures a collection o Roman arteacts. Right next to the museum is the Royal House, which was built in 1792 and represents Sremska Mitrovica’s oldest building.
ACTIVITIES Visitors seeking some green space are advised to head or the Zasavica Nature Reserve just outside Sremska Mitrovica. This reserve beside the River Sava includes preserved swamps, a orest eaturing a wide range o ora and auna and a wide variety o bird and insect species.
ŠID–SIGHTS Šid is located in southwestern Vojvodina some 86 kilometres rom Belgrade o Highway E-70. I you are driving you will pass the so-called Communal Grave o the Fallen Fighters o the Srem Front (1944–1945), which stands just beside the main road. The rst association o many people in Serbia with Šid is the great Sava
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Roman Imperial Palace excavation site in Sremska Mitrovica – A visit to the Zasavica Nature Reserve – A visit to the gallery and atelier o renowned Serbian artist Sava Šumanović
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on history Šumanović, one o the most renowned artists o Serbian Modernism. His studio and gallery, eaturing more than 400 o his works, are located on St. Sava Street. Explore urther and you will nd the Ilianum Naïve Art Museum in the town centre. Just on the outskirts o Šid lie the Privina Glava Monastery, the Molovin Village Church amous or its iconostas and the Vorov, Vranjak and Morović hunting grounds. Šid is awash with idyllic scenic landscapes. In act, the majority o the municipality’s 69,800 hectares o land comprise ertile elds and lush orests.
T O Sk Mvc Sv Dj 10, 22000 Sk Mvc T: +381 22 618 275 E-: @. www.. T O Šd C Lz 7, 22240 Šd T: +381 22 710 610, 710 661 E-: d@.c www.d.
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RARE SPECIES The Zasavica Nature Reserve is home to a variety o endangered sh, including the mud minnow, whitebait, rudd and carp. Along with other auna, including the Balkan amphibian unusual Danube crested newt, indigenous otters and wild cats, the reserve is home to more than 180 bird species. The European beaver was reintroduced to Zasavica just a ew years ago, while the Podolian Bull and the Mangulica, a rare species o pig, are bred in the pastures surrounding Zasavica.
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TOPOLA, OPLENAC, ARANĐELOVAC
Treasures of The Church o the Holy Mother (Crkva Presvete Bogorodice), also known as Karađorđe’s Church, is sturdy and rustic. Its interior is adorned with lavish iconostas and engravings and eatures an impressive statue o Karađorđe. Visitors to the church can attend religious services. Both the museum and the church are reminders o the city’s glorious past. Perched high above Topola on Oplenac Hill, the Karađorđević amily mausoleum and St. George Church (Crkva Svetog Đorđa) complex represent one o the most historic sites in this par t o Šumadija. The church eatures ve spectacular domes and a white marble exterior. The mesmerizing interior eatures stunning mosaic rescoes o sixty Serbian monasteries. There are 725 compositions and 1,500 gures crated rom 40 million mosaic tiles in 15,000 dierent shades. Explore urther and you will nd the tombs o Karađorđe and King Peter I (1903–1921) in the central part o the church. King Peter designed the church, which took many years to build. The church’s crypt contains the tombs o 22 members o the royal amily. Prince Alexander and King Alexander I are also buried here. When visiting the grounds o Oplenac you will pass through a security checkpoint. Make certain to visit the summer residence o the Karađorđević Dynasty (Peter’s House). Today the residence is a museum eaturing exhibits about the reign o this dynasty. Next to the museum you will nd the villas o King Alexander and Queen Maria. A beautiully manicured park rich with pine, oak, ash, linden and the Pančić Spruce (Pančićeva omorika) encircles Oplenac. A stroll through the protected park is certainly a must!
ACTIVITIES TOPOLA – SIGHTS The small town o Topola is 80 kilometres south o Belgrade and neighbours Smederevska Palanka, Rača, Kragujevac, Gornji Milanovac, Aranđelovac and Mladenovac. Once Serbia’s administrative and political centre, the leader o the First Serbian Uprising Karađorđe Petrović chose Topola as his base rom which to ree Serbia rom the Ottomans in 1804. Sadly the ortied city was destroyed in 1877 under the rule o the Obrenović Dynasty. Karađorđe’s residence was turned into museum which today displays his personal belongings and weapons rom the period.
This region is synonymous with good grapes and ne wine. According to historical records, the area’s vineyards produced such plentiul harvests during Prince Miloš’s reign that there was not enough space to store the grapes. Today the grape and wine are symbols o each village in this region. The King’s Cellar at Topola has two oors o under-
WE RECOMMEND: – Perusing Karađorđe’s personal belongings at the summer residence o the Karađorđević Dynasty – Attending religious services at St. George Church in Topola – A pampering body treatment at the Bukovička Banja spa near Aranđelovac
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Rulers Past ground cellars maintained at a constant temperature o 8°C. Ninety-nine barrels o wine are stored here, with each barrel containing 4,000 litres o wine. Sample some or yoursel! Named in honour o the noble drink, the village o Vinča hosts a traditional three-day grape picking event (Oplenačka berba) dedicated to grape and wine each October. The hills o Topola are rich in ruit, medicinal herbs and edible mushrooms.
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THE RISOVAČA CAVE The Risovača Cave near Aranđelovac is considered an important archaeological, paleontological and speleological site. The cave contains numerous Ice Age animal remains, as well as stone and bone tools dating back 30,000 years to the Palaeolithic Age.
The village o Lipovac is home to one o Šumadija’s oldest oaks. This tree, which measures 5.5 metres in height, inspired local artists to establish the Lipovačka Painting Arts Colony. The village o Ovsište is the birthplace o one o Serbia’s most prominent writers, Radoje Domanović, and is also home to a number o Serbian satirists.
ARANĐELOVAC – SIGHTS The small town o Aranđelovac was established during the reign o Prince Miloš and neighbours the Bukovička Banja spa. Today Aranđelovac is well known or its Venčac white marble, medicinal water and salubrious climate. The town is 85 kilometres rom Belgrade.
ACTIVITIES Aranđelovac is also amous or Marble and Sounds, one o Serbia’s most renowned cultural and artistic events. Held every summer, the event carries the UNESCO distinction. History bus should head to the small town o Orašac
T O „Opc“ Tp Kj Zk 13, 34310 Tp T: +381 34 811 172, 814 027 E-: @ppc. www.ppc.. www.pck.c T O Ađvc Mcpy Kjz Mš 267, 34300 Ađvc T: +381 34 724 097, 725 575 E-: c@kvckj. www.kvckj. T I C Ađvc Kjz Mš 228, 34300 Ađvc T: +381 34 715 335 E-: c@.c
just six kilometres rom Aranđelovac, which marks the site o the First Serbian Uprising. The Bukovička Banja spa comprises 25 hectares o park space and is home to the ormer summer residence o the Obrenović Dynasty. Mineral water rom the spa was served at the Obrenović court and today is one o the most recognisable brands o bottled water in Serbia. The spa includes a clinic specialising in the medicinal use o mineral water and clay or patients suering rom internal disorders and juvenile diabetes. Stop by or a restorative experience!
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KRAGUJEVAC, KNIĆ
The Magnificent Rose KRAGUJEVAC – SIGHTS Kragujevac, Šumadija’s largest city, lies 120 kilometres southwest o Belgrade via Topola. Those seeking a more scenic route should take the Batočina exit, though this will add 20 kilometres to your drive. Kragujevac is also accessible via train rom Budapest, Thessaloniki and Bar. Kragujevac was the rst capital o the modern Serbian state. The city rose to prominence during the 1818 to 1839 revolution, when the rst cultural and educational institutions o the restored state were established. Along with the Joakim Vujić Theatre and Josi Slezinger Royal Orchestra, the city’s rst courthouse (1820), gymnasium school (1833), newspaper (Novine serbske), lyceum, cannon (1853) and electrical power unit (1884) were all established during this period. The centre o the old capital city lies along the River Lepenica, with the Holy Trinity Church (Crkva Svete Trojice) and the old Assembly located on the right bank. The rst major decisions o the newly ormed Serbian state were debated and resolved here. The rst Constitution o the restored Serbian state was voted into law during the amous
1835-assembly session on Sretenje religious holiday (Meeting o the Lord). On the let bank o the Lepenica sits the Amidža Residence, the only structure rom the royal complex to have been restored. The complex includes a Museum and Prince Miloš’s Residence. Like many other cities in Serbia, Kragujevac has a lively pedestrian zone in the city centre. The zone begins at the Square at the Cross and leads straight to Memorial Park in Šumarice, the site where 7,000 people were killed during WWII. Kragujevac became an industrial power in the mid-19th century. The city experienced tremendous growth when it became the site o an expansive weapons and vehicle manuacturing actory.
ACTIVITIES Kragujevac’s aquarium is the rst o its kind in Serbia and is home to marine lie and various species o amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates rom across the globe. The medieval monasteries o Voljavča, Blagoveštenje, Nikolje, Petkovica, Denkovac, Raletinac, Sarinac and Divostin are all in th e vicinity o Kragujevac. Built in the Moravian style, these majestic monasteries eature unique architectural eats and mesmerising rescoes. The Petkovica Monastery includes the remains o the Srebrnica Fortress and the Church o St. Nicholas (Crkva Svetog Nikole). The ortress was a git rom Duke Nikola and Princess Milica to the St. Panteleimon Monastery on the Holy Mountain o Athos.
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Divostin Monastery – A dip in Gruža Lake – A relaxing drink beneath the linden tree at Borački Karst
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of Šumadija
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The Divostin Monastery is dedicated to the Holy Annunciation. According to legend, a saint is buried here and the water rom the nearby Svetinja (relic) spring contains healing powers. The people o Kragujevac are known as excellent restaurateurs. I you are in Kragujevac and craving some delicious local cuisine, stop by the local tourism organisation and peruse their list o more than 20 highly recommended restaurants. Whichever type o getaway you are seeking, Kragujevac oers a range o options or rest, relaxation and recreation.
KNIĆ – SIGHTS Some 20 kilometres rom Kragujevac, the Municipality o Knić is worth a visit. This small town, 150 kilometres south o Belgrade, is accessible via road and the Kragujevac–Kraljevo railroad. Located in the centre o the Gruža region, Knić oers a number o both Stone Age and Ancient Roman ruins. The Church o St. Elijah (Crkva Svetog Ilije) in Knić was built in 1910 on the grounds o an 1842 temple. Outspoken poet Dobrica Erić reerred to Gruža as a magnicent rose, but today the area is known predominantly or crop arming and ruit growing. Local shermen are grateul or Gruža’s sparkling creeks, which are rich in gudgeon, chub and river crab. Although it mainly provides Kragujevac’s water supply, Gruža Lake also oers plenty o quality sh, including catsh, carp and pikeperch. The lake is also a popular training acility or local rowing clubs.
ACTIVITIES I you are in search o mind boggling natural phenomena, head to Borački Karst (Borački krš). These incredible rock ormations are under state protection. Along with historical records, the ruins o the nearby medieval city suggest that this was once a diverse and rich settlement. A visit to the ruins o an 8th century church in Borač is a must! Here you will see a linden tree in the church’s entryway that is so massive it would be impossible or our adults to encircle its trunk with their arms. You will nd a similar occurrence at the 15th century Kamenac Monastery in the village o Čestin. The village also organises a traditional ox chasing competition every winter. The beauty o this area attracts painters rom ar and wide and a Painting Arts Colony – Gružanska jesen assembles here every autumn.
THE LEGEND OF THE THREE SISTERS Not ar rom Velike Pčelice and the valley o the River Dulenska you will nd the remains o the medieval monasteries o Denkovac, Raletinac and Sarinac. Though the exact year o their construction is unknown, experts believe they were built during the reign o Despot Stean, when this region o Serbia was quite prosperous. According to legend, three sisters, Raletina, Dena and Sara, built these monasteries to hide rom the Ottomans ollowing the Battle o Kosovo in 1389.
T O Kjvc Kj Akd Pv Kđđvć 44, 34000 Kjvc T: +381 34 332 172, 334 883 E-: k@. www.k.. T I C Kjvc D Z Đđć 11, 34000 Kjvc T: +381 34 335 302, 301 306 E-: c_k@p.k. T O Kć Mcpy Skpš Opš Kć, 34240 Kć T: +381 34 510 115 E-: kc@p. www.kc.
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LJIG, GORNJI MILANOVAC
Braid of Nature LJIG – SIGHTS Located in the oothills o Rajac Mountain along the Ibarska motorway, Ljig is 85 kilometres rom Belgrade. The town is also known as Kačer, ater the river that runs through it. Ljig neighbours the towns o Aranđelovac, Gornji Milanovac, Mionica, Lazarevac and Lajkovac. Ljig, a picturesque small town o 3,000 citizens, is a relatively new settlement. Its residents are mostly engaged in crop and vegetable arming, while the town’s homemade brandy (rakija) and cheese pie (gibanica) are renowned across Serbia.
ACTIVITIES In the past ew years Ljig has become an increasingly popular tourist destination. The Banja Ljig spa, which is just two kilometres rom the town along the Belgrade–Podgorica Highway, eatures several thermo-mineral waters with an average temperature o 32.5°C. You can drink or bathe in the sparkling mineral waters here, which oer healing benets. The villages that surround Ljig eature genuine cultural treasures. The 15th century church in the settlement o Ba is a must see! Visit Rajac and Ravna Gora and explore the ormer summer settlements o shepherds. Stroll around the village o Dići on the road to Gornji Milanovac and discover the ruins o Dragutin Nemanjić’s church.
WE RECOMMEND: – Sipping a shot o homemade brandy (rakija) in Ljig – Taking lunch in the meadows o Rajac Mountain – A stroll rom Rudnik to Ostrvice
Drive along the road linking Ljig and Rajac and you will come across the quaint village o Ikonići, which eatures a medieval church containing the beautiully adorned cofns o Despot Đurađ Branković, Đurađ Smederevac and Lady Despot Jerina. Explore urther and discover Slavkovica, a delightul town known or its unique granite. The Rajac Mountain area is becoming an increasingly appealing tourist destination. Every second week in July, villages in the area host a hay-stacking competition (Kosidba na Rajcu) and estival. The event originated as a way o helping landowners in the area to complete this laborious traditional task. Hay stackers wear traditional dress, complete with straw hats and colourully embroidered bags. The most skilul – and some say most handsome – is crowned master hay stacker (Đidija or Kozbaša) at the end o the estival. The three-day event oers plenty o good ood, drink and entertainment. Crowds o over 50,000 participate each year!
GORNJI MILANOVAC – SIGHTS Prince Aleksandar Karađorđević ounded Gornji Milanovac, which is 124 kilometres rom Belgrade via the Ibarska motorway. For six years Milanovac was called Despotovica, ater the river that runs through it, until Prince Miloš changed its name to honour his late brother Milan, who had died in Romania.
ACTIVITIES A visit to Gornji Milanovac’s district administrative centre (Okružno načelstvo) is a must! The building is nearly as old as the city itsel and is today home to the city’s culture centre, li-
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and History brary, modern art gallery and municipal television station. In ront o the building you will see statues o Prince Alexander, Duke Milan Obrenović and a bust o Živojin Mišić, who led the Suvobor–Kolubara battle here. Explore urther and you will discover the 1860 Holy Trinity Church (Crkva Svete Trojice), also ounded by Prince Miloš. Another prominent site is Peace Hill (Brdo mira), which eatures the unique Norwegian House. The structure is part Viking ship, part traditional Serbian house and is a symbol o the riendship shared between the people o Norway and Serbia. The nearby museum eatures an exhibit that pays homage to the Serbs who suered in the Nazi concentration camps in Norway. Travel beyond Gornji Milanovac and you will nd yoursel in Rudnik Mountain, which dominates Central Serbia. This mountain settlement existed long beore the Slavs arrived. Ancient Romans mined ore and minted coins here. Today it is a natural paradise or mountaineers and hunters. The volcanic Ostrvica Hill and surrounding ortress ruins are prominent eatures o the area.
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KOŠTUNIĆI The village o Koštunići is considered the only genuine eco village in Serbia. The water here is so pure that you can drink it straight rom the creek. Explore Koštunići’s ethno-house, complete with traditional platters, needlework and woven pieces. The village eatures the Prodanovića shop (magaza), an ethnomuseum, an exhibit o Boža Prodanović’s paintings, dating back over 120 years, and a historical museum dedicated to the Battle o Kolubarska and General Živojin Mišić. Several private households in Koštunići ofer excellent accommodation or travellers.
The area surrounding Mount Rudnik is home to the Vraćevšnica Monastery, which eatures three residences rom dierent periods and the St. George Church (Crkva Svetog Đorđa). The residence o Prince Miloš can be ound just three kilometres past Vraćevšnica, in Gornja Crnuća. The village served as Serbia’s capital or three years beore relocation to Kragujevac in 1819. Takovo, a historic town in Milanovac Municipality, was the site o the Second Serbian Uprising (1815) led by Miloš Obrenović. A visit to the city’s 18th century wooden church, eaturing engraved doors and iconostas, is a must! Savinac is a small neighbourhood in village o Šarani. According to legend, St. Sava passed through the village on his horse and some say the horse’s hoo print is s till visible. Mina Karadžić, poet, painter and daughter o Vuk Karadžić, is buried under the Savinac Church.
T O Lj Mcpy Kđđv 7, 14240 Lj T: +381 14 83 300, 85 242 E-: @j.., j@p. www.j.., www.kd.c www.., www... T O Gj Mvc Mcpy C Dš 2, 32000 Gj Mvc T: +381 32 720 566, 720 565 E-: @p.k. www...
1 8.
ČAČAK, LUČANI
Living Among
ČAČAK – SIGHTS Čačak lies along the River Morava and is surrounded by the Jelica, Ovčar, Kablar and Vujan mountains. The city is 144 kilometres rom Belgrade via the Ibarska motorway. Čačak’s urban centre eatures the remains o a 4th century Roman settlement, complete with the ruins o thermal baths and monuments to Jupiter. The villages and agricultural estates in the vicinity boast numerous remnants o the Roman period. Built by Prince Miloš’s brother Jovan in 1835, the residence o Jovan Obrenović is one o the oldest surviving structures in Čačak. The residence, which has been converted into a museum, is the only remaining symbol o the Obrenović Dynasty. The museum eatures three permanent exhibits. They include a historical depiction spanning rom the Neolithic age to the middle ages, Čačak’s Ovčar-Kablar monasteries and churches, and scenes o Čačak’s uprisings and conicts between 1804 and 1941. A number o Čačak’s structures still eature their original exterior. They include the Regional Administrative Centre (Okružno načelstvo), Falcon House (Sokolski dom), the gymnasium school, Hadžić House (Hadžića kuća), Dragomirović Palace and Mayor Gavrilović’s house. The Nadežda Petrović Art Gallery and memorial honour the ounder o the contemporary art movement in Serbia. Visit the Čačak cemetery and you will discover a unique monument to those who ought in WWI. The monument, erected in 1934, eatures Orthodox and Catholic crosses, the Islamic Crescent and the Jewish Star o David. The Tanasko Rajić Monument on Ljubić Hill honours the memory o a legendary cannon operator rom the First Serbian Uprising. The Gradina archaeological site atop Jelica Mountain is located in the village o Grab just eight kilometres rom Čačak. The expansive site, which includes the remains o an 8th century Byzantine ortied city, suggests the settlement
enjoyed a vibrant economy and rich culture. Just 10 kilometres rom Čačak, the stunning Ovčar-Kablar Gorge cuts across the River Morava and marks the site o ten magnicent 14th century monasteries and two holy places. This valley is oten reerred to as Serbia’s Holy Mount Athos. You will nd several o these majestic monasteries tucked away on the right bank o the Morava. They include Vavedenje, dedicated to the Presentation o the Virgin Mary, Vaznesenje, in honour o the Ascension o the Lord, Preobraženje, dedicated to the Rising o Christ, Sretenje, in honour o the Purication o the Virgin Mary, and Sveta Trojica, dedicated to the Holy Trinity. On the let bank o the Morava you will nd the second cluster o these remarkable monasteries. They include Blagoveštenje, dedicated to the Holy Annunciation, Ilinje, in honour o St. Eli jah, Jovanje, dedicated to the birth o St. John the Baptist, Uspenje, dedicated to the Assumption, and Nikolje, in honour o St. Nicholas. Apart rom this plethora o monasteries, we highly recommend a visit to the Kađenica Reuge Church and the Savinje Church, dedicated to St. Sava. Both showcase the Raška school o architectural style. Along with the monasteries in the area, both churches at one time maintained workshops or book transcription and illustration, icon painting and the crating o sacred objects.
ACTIVITIES I you love the outdoors and enjoy shing, mountaineering, rating and extreme sports, the mountains o Ovčar and Kab-
T O Ččk T Uk 4, 32000 Ččk T: +381 32 342 360 E-: c@p. www.zcck.. T I C Ččk T: +381 32 343 031, 343 721 T I C Ovč Bj T: +381 32 5596 250 C C, Sp d T Lč Mcpy „Dčv-Gč“ T d , 32230 Gč T: +381 32 854 110, 854 765 E-: d@. www.c.c
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the ruins o the Ancient Roman thermal baths in Č ačak – A hike around the Ovčar-Kablar Gorge and Serbia’s Holy Mount Athos – A great time at the Dragačevo Trumpet Festival in Guča
BELGRADE
Monuments lar are perect or you. At Ovčar you can learn to paraglide and enjoy spectacular aerial views, while Kablar oers courses in extreme mountain climbing. I a relaxing getaway is more your style, visit one o Čačak’s three mineral water spas. The Ovčar Banja spa eatures soothing thermal waters and the beautiul vistas o the Ovčar-Kablar Gorge. Atomska Banja Gornja Trepča spa is world renowned or its therapeutic medicinal waters. The thermo-mineral water here contains rare and restorative microelements. Let the mild climate, lush vegetation and resh mountain air renew your senses. I you are seeking a unique spot or a spa getaway, head to the Atomska Banja Gornja Trepča spa, which is close to a wide range o cultural and historical monuments. Čačak organises over thirty dierent cultural and sporting events annually. One o the most prominent is Dis’s Spring, in honour o poet Vladimir Petković Dis. The May estival has existed or several decades and has enjoyed the participation o a prousion o distinguished 20th-century poets.
LUČANI – SIGHTS The municipality o Lučani is accessible via Užice, Požega and Čačak, just o the road that winds through the OvčarKablar Gorge. The Dragačevo area covers most o Lučani and boasts many cultural monuments that date back to ancient times and include traces o the Roman period and medieval Serbia. I you only have time to see a ew, we highly recommend Breg, Zbegovište and Oranica. The ancient churches o this municipality share the unortunate ate o the inhabitants here. Sadly, no church remains survive rom the period o the First Serbian Uprising. Restoration and new construction
THE PRISLONICE PIPES For more than two decades, pipe players have gathered every July (Sabor rulaša) in the small town o Prislonica near Čačak. This unique event, which was ounded by legendary pipe player Miodrag Mile Azanjac, aims to preserve the indigenous olk culture, customs and musical traditions o Serbia. Pipe makers and other cratsmen display their crats alongside weavers and embroiderers. I you happen to be visiting, try one o the traditional dishes here.
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only began ollowing the Second Serbian Uprising in 1815. Nature here is pristine and largely untouched. The residents o Dragačevo have worked hard to preserve their environment and protect it rom degeneration. Ecologists in Dragačevo are especially proud o Radanova Gora, a hill in the village o Guča. This nature spot is the rst and only private orest under state protection in Serbia. Also under protection o the state are Dragačevo Trees – nine trees scattered across various Dragačevo villages.
ACTIVITIES The Dragačevo Trumpet Festival has put the village o Guča, 16 kilometres rom Lučani, on the world map. Every year in the rst week o August thousands o people rom across the globe converge on this small town to enjoy the music o Balkan brass bands. For a ew estive days, Guča is transormed into the world trumpet capital. The event, which has taken place annually or 50 years, eatures good music, good un and hardy ood. Here you can sample roasted meat and svadbarski kupus (wedding cabbage), a local speciality. Those wanting to explore more o Guča can head to the unique Museum o Roadside Tombstones (Muzej krajputaša) behind the town schoolhouse. The museum eatures roadside tombstones rom across the Dragačevo area. These pillar-shaped tombstones display a photo o the deceased and are either carved or painted.
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ŠABAC, BOGATIĆ, LOZNICA
Fancy a Fair ŠABAC – SIGHTS Šabac is located 85 kilometres west o Belgrade on the River Sava. The town reached its peak in the 19th century largely thanks to its position adjacent to the prosperous region o Vo jvodina. Šabac was the rst city in Serbia to have an orchestra, piano, hospital and pharmacy. Built in 1931, the church o St. Peter and Paul dominates the city centre. It eatures an iconostasis de corated by Pavle Simić, a prominent 19th-century painter. Located on the premises o the town’s 1856 junior high school, the National Museum displays a ormidable collection o archaeological, historical and ethnographical arteacts. The remarkable House o Krsmanović is located on Karađorđeva Street, the city’s main pedestrian walkway. Visitors seeking a unique destination should head to the nearby village o Metlić and visit the Ašik gravesite. It commemorates the tragic love between Pavle and Đula, the two main characters in a novel by Janko Veselinović. The Turks built the rectangular Šabac Fortress in the medieval city o Zaslon in 1470. A canal surrounds the ortress, which has one remaining tower and all our walls.
ACTIVITIES Every year Šabac organises the Orthodox Nativity o the Virgin Mary Fair, which is considered one o the most estive events in Serbia. Since 1968 Šabac has hosted Čivijada, Serbia’s most renowned humour and satire estival. Mišar is a small town close to Šabac known as the site where the great Karađorđe deeated the Turks. The battle is described in the epic poem Boj na Mišaru (Battle o Mišar). The legendary Cer Mountain was the site o the battle o Cer. It was here that Stepa Stepanović led one o Serbia’s great victories o WWI. Nowadays it is a popular excursion site eaturing a beautiul mountain lodge with an amazing view o the Mačva
T O Šc Kđđv 5, 15000 Šc T: +381 15 347 383 E-: c@.c www.cz. T I C Šc T: +381 15 347 384 T O Lzc Jv Cvjć 20, 15300 Lzc T: +381 15 878 520 E-: zc@.c www.zc.
Plain. Cer Mountain is located just 25 kilometres rom Šabac. Each June sees the village o Lipolist host the Festival o the Lipolist Rose, which kicks o with the distributing o 1,000 roses on Šabac’s pedestrian walkway. Lipolist is renowned or its rose growing. The village exports approximately a third o its annual production o 700,000 rose seedlings to counties across the European Union.
BOGATIĆ – SIGHTS Bogatić is situated in the ar northwestern corner o Serbia at the conuence o the Drina and Sava rivers. Though the area’s tributary rivers, the Starača, Batar, Bitva and Žurava, have dried out, three quarters o the land here is highly ertile.
ACTIVITIES Visit the village o Dublje and discover its incredible hot springs. At a depth o 412 metres, the water temperature here averages 75 degrees Celsius. The springs were discovered just 20 years ago. Bogatić borders Republika Srpska, which is connected to Serbia via the Pavlović Bridge.
LOZNICA – SIGHTS Loznica is located 139 kilometres west o Belgrade in an area once inhabited by ancient Illyrians. Its archaeological sites date back to 900–300 B.C. The rst modern sulphur baths were built in Banja Koviljača spa, just a ew miles rom
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in Šabac…
BELGRADE
Loznica. The spa, which is 142 kilometres rom Belgrade, dates back to ancient times. The mineral water here is an ideal 15 to 28 degrees Celsius and the spa also eatures a beautiul 20th century park surrounded by grand old villas and hotels. The most beautiul is the 1932 Kursalon building, built by King Aleksandar Karađorđević. Because o his involvement, the spa is oten reerred to as the royal spa. You will nd Banja Badanja spa in the vicinity o the Drina valley. The area eatures rich hunting grounds in Boranja and Cer. Just 17 kilometres rom Loznica you will nd the Tronoša Monastery. Built by King Dragutin, the monastery’s church was completed just ater his death in 1317. Subsequent ruling amilies, including the Nemanjić, Hrebeljanović, Branković and Kotromanić dynasties, later recognised the Tronoša Monastery. Over the course o the last ew centuries the monastery has been torn down and rebuilt numerous times. The most recent reconstruction was completed in 1961. Today it eatures a museum dedicated to Vuk Karadžić, prominent Serbian linguist and language reormer, who learned to read and write here.
ACTIVITIES Just six kilometres rom Tronoša is the village o Tršić, eaturing an expansive ethno complex. Thirty-ve o its acilities, including the Dositej Museum and Gallery, are under state protection. The complex includes Karadžić’s property, memorial house and barn. Each September Tršić hosts an international gathering o Slavists rom around the world known as Vukov Sabor. A visit to this site is a must!
FOUNTAIN OF THE NINE JUGOVIĆ BROTHERS
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Gallery o Mića Popović – Buying a rose in Lipolist – A visit to Vuk Karadžić house in Tršić
According to legend, Jug-Bogdan and the nine Jugović brothers built a ountain in ront o the Tronoša Monastery beore departing or the Battle o Kosovo. Archimandrite Metodije and Mladen Isaković, a salesman rom Lešnica, reconstructed the ountain in 1894. Jovan, the bishop o Šabac–Valjevo, and Antonije Đurđević, the abbot o Tronoša Monastery, renovated the chapel beside the ountain. The chapel is dedicated to the Holy Panteleimon. Its exterior eatures a mosaic mural depicting Jug-Bogdan and the nine Jugović brothers on their horses preparing to depart or the Battle o Kosovo.
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KRUPANJ, KOCELJEVA, VLADIMIRCI, MALI ZVORNIK
Creative Water KRUPANJ – SIGHTS Krupanj is nestled among the Boranja, Jagodnja and Sokolske mountains o western Serbia. The area, which includes Vlašić and the River Jadar, is known as Rađevina. It borders Loznica to the northwest and Šabac to the north. Krupanj is accessible rom Belgrade (150 kilometres) via Valjevo or Šabac. Because Rađevina is at altitude, it enjoys a unique microclimate. Summer nights are cool and precipitation is more requent. As there is no industry or miles, the air and water here are pure and the ood is healthy and organic. Though a small town, Krupanj boasts quite a turbulent history. During WWII Žikica Jovanović Španac called on the people o neighbouring Bela Crkva to rise up against the invaders. For several decades, July 7th (Ivanjdan) was commemorated as Dan Ustanka (Day o the Uprising). Mačkov Kamen (923 m) atop Jagodnja Mountain marks the site o an horric historic battle in 1914. A memorial crypt o the heroes who ought and died here is located on the mountain peak. There is an additional crypt in the 1932 Memorial Church o the Ascension o Our Lord (Spomen-crkva Svetog Vaznesenja Gospodnjeg) in Krupanj.
ACTIVITIES Apart rom its historical signicance, Mačkov kamen also attracts winter sports enthusiasts. It oers several ski runs and lits and plenty o space or sledding. Hunting and shing at one o Krupanj’s our rivers is also a popular pastime.
KOCELJEVA – SIGHTS The charming town o Koceljeva is located between Šabac, Valjevo, Loznica and Ub and below Cer and Vlašić. Koceljeva has a unique history. It was rom here that priest Luka Lazarević walked to the Battle o Mišar, while Koceljeva is also the hometown o the amous Janko Veselinović, a teacher whose HajdukStanko was an inspiration to many Serbian youngsters.
ACTIVITIES The area boasts many plentiul hunting spots. The Tamnava hunting grounds oer more than 3,000 rabbits, 3,500 pheasants, 1,500 partridges and as many as 500 roe deer.
THE POWER OF WATER Water is the essence o Mali Zvornik. Indeed, with an abundance o pristine drinking water, a hydroelectric power plant on the Drina and a water accumulation dam on the River Radaljska, water is the lieblood o Mali Zvornik. People have journeyed to the springs in the village o Radalj since ancient times, seeking to cure their ailments. The streams here are also rich in sh. According to legend, there is a giant catsh known as the Toša monster that lurks in these waters.
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Energy VLADIMIRCI – SIGHTS According to the legend Miloš Obilić built the Kaona Monastery in the vicinity o Vladimirci. Though the exact date is unknown, historical records indicate that the old church had existed long beore 1756 when it was rebuilt. The monastery’s Byzantine church, dedicated to St. Archangel Michael, was erected atop the oundation o a previous church. A small pond was added in 1982 to incorporate the two small streams that encircle the monastery. The early Christian-style baptismal ont, modelled ater Teba Tesalijska, was built in 1984.
ACTIVITIES I you are in the mood or a rereshing swim, the 60 hectare Vukošićka Bara natural lake contains the most pristine water in the region.
MALI ZVORNIK – SIGHTS Mali Zvornik, the administrative centre o Mačva District, lies along the Zvornik–Tuzla–Sarajevo Highway. Some 170 kilometres rom Belgrade and 80 kilometres rom Šabac, Mali Zvornik and its satellite settlements were established in 1955 to coincide with the completion o a hydroelectric plant on the River Drina. A system o underground passages is easily the city’s main attraction. The elaborate underground labyrinth was built in 1931 as a command spot and shelter or the King and chie commander. According to historical records, the young King Petar II Karađorđević spent his last night in the country here sometime in April 1941. Even though the tunnel has not been ully explored, it has an estimated length o two kilometres and was dug in the shape o a cross. It contains the remains o a chapel, an altar room, a King’s chamber, a reshwater well and other necessities required or an extended stay underground. There is some speculation that natural phenomena created a tunnel connected to the labyrinth under the Drina riverbed.
T O Kpj Mcpy Mš T 2, 15314 Kpj T: +381 15 684 094, x. 131 E-: k@yh.c www.kpj..
WE RECOMMEND: – A ski trip at Mačkov Kamen – A swim in Vukošićka Bara Lake – A stroll around the pond at Kaona Monastery
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OSEČINA, LJUBOVIJA
Everlasting OSEČINA – SIGHTS Osečina is located 130 kilometres rom Belgrade on the Valjevo–Loznica regional road along western Serbia’s River Jadar. According to historical records, this region o Serbia was completely abandoned during the Turkish occupation. The countryside was scattered with empty villages. Even the Turks rarely set oot in the area. Ilija Birčanin, a prominent rebel leader rom the region, was killed in the lead-up to the First Serbian Uprising. Though the Turks slaughtered him along with other key gures o the movement during the Seča knezova (Slaughter o the Princes), the uprising continued. Until the 20th century, all settlements in this region except Osečina were rural. With a smattering o shops, traditional restaurants and caes, the town is now the most developed in the region. Osečina and its surroundings are amous or producing plentiul ruit, including plum, raspberry and blackberry. You can sample them resh or try one the region’s renowned stews, jams, marmalades, juices and ruitcakes. Fruit grown here is also used to make an assortment o high quality plum brandies and wines. Osečina also produces superb dairy and meat products.
ACTIVITIES Apart rom its delectable organic oerings, the region boasts a variety o game or hunting and medicinal and orest herbs. The largest hunting lodge in the area is Tisovik. Osečina’s natural beauty includes a network o rivers, streams and brooks that oer crab and plenty o trout. Visitors interested in shing should head to the Jadar, Lovačka, Ljuboviđa, Pecka, or Ostružanjka rivers, where they are most likely to catch chub, gudgeon or trout. The region is also one o the rare natural habitats o the grion vulture. Whether you en-
WE RECOMMEND: – A shot o rakija in Osečina – A visit to Sokograd – A fshing trip on the River Drina
joy hunting, shing or are in search o an ideal ecotourism spot, Osečina has it all. The region prides itsel on healthy living in a pristine natural environment. Visit the village o Skadar and you will discover a charming 17th-century log cabin church built by settlers in the area. The church, which is dedicated to the Ascension o Our Lord, is adorned with six beautiul pillars and carved doors. It was reno vated in 1978. Over the past ew years Sokograd has become a amous pilgrimage and excursion site. The ruined city, a military ortication dating back to Roman times, is located next to Osečina, Ljubovija and Krupanj. At one time several armies sought to control this border town, which was quite prosperous under Turkish control. The Turks called it Sultan’s Bride. Today you can enjoy Sokograd’s beautiul sites, including a golden cross that was built amongst the town’s ruins and the ten chapels that line the town’s hillside and represent the Ten Commandments. Venture onto the oothills o Sokograd and discover a monastery and monument dedicated to St. Bishop Nikolaj Velimirović.
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Beauty LJUBOVIJA – SIGHTS
The Ljuboviđa Canyon is a majestic mix o mountain peaks, lush pastures and views o the winding green ribbons o the River Ljuboviđa. At one time the canyon trailed the main road rom western Serbia to Bosnia. The beautiul arch o the Roman Bridge, called Jerina Bridge by locals, artully transverses the Ljuboviđa. Though its name suggests otherwise, the bridge’s architecture is actually Turkish. Ljubovija Municipality borders Osečina and the River Drina in the direction o Bosnia’s Republika Srpska. Locals call this area, which is 200 kilometres rom Belgrade, Azbukovica, reerring to themselves as Azbukovčani.
MOBA
Sokograd is home to Moba, a unique annual event or young people o Serbian origin. The event takes place every July in the St. Nikolaj Srpski Monastery and is organised by the Ljubovija Municipality, the Serbian Orthodox Church and the Centre o Emigrants o Serbia. Moba draws approximately 200 young people o Serbian origin rom across the globe. During their stay at St. Nikolaj Srpski they socialise, help clean the monastery, practice Serbian and learn about the geography and history o their ancestors.
ACTIVITIES
The mystical River Drina is easily the highlight o Ljubovija. Its abundance o sh attracts a great number o nature lovers and shermen. When visiting the area, including Podrinje, you will notice that nearly every house has its own piece o shoreline along the river. Despite its potential as an untapped destination, Ljubovija has never developed a commercialised tourist industry. As a result, it has maintained its character and natural beauty. Ljubovija is home to the Drina Regatta, which takes place annually on the second Saturday in July. The event attracts water sports enthusiasts rom across Europe. Apart rom the regatta, the town stages a number o airs and estivals throughout the year. Ivanjdan, on July 7th, is one o the most popular!
T O „Pd“ Oč Kđđv 59, 14253 Oč T: +381 14 452 311 E-: pd@.c www.c.c T O Ljvj Mcpy Vjvd Mšć 45, 15320 Ljvj T: +381 15 661 050 E-: j@.c www.j., www.ckzcjjvj.
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VALJEVO, DIVČIBARE, MIONICA, LAJKOVAC, UB
Celebrating VALJEVO – SIGHTS
ACTIVITIES
Valjevo lies 95 kilometres southwest o Belgrade via Highway E-760. Situated beside the River Kolubara, the town sprang up along the old trade route rom Belgrade to Bosnia in the oothills o the Medvednik, Povlen, Jablanik and Maljen mountains. On one side o the Kolubara, Valjevo’s central square eatures a monument to Duke Živojin Mišić, an outstanding army leader rom WWI. The square also eatures the National Museum, housed in a building dating back to 1870. The oldest building in Valjevo is Muselimov konak (Muselim’s Residence). Built in the 18th century, its architecture is simple and eatures scant remnants o Turkish inuence. Nowadays the residence displays a permanent exhibition dedicated to the First and Second Serbian Uprisings. The old part o town, known as Tešnjar, is located on the other side o the Kolubara. Built in the Serbian-Balkan style during the 18th and 19th centuries, prior to WWI Tešnjar was the heart o the town. Today it eatures several new establishments, including caes, restaurants and boutiques. The neighbourhood also hosts a traditional jazz estival and the annual Tešnjarske večeri (Tešnjar evenings) event. Come and explore this cultural gem or yoursel! Built in 1813 by Jakov, brother o murdered Prince Aleksa Nenadović, Kula Nenadovića (Nenadović Tower) lies at the conuence o the Gradac and Kolubara rivers near Valjevo. The village o Brankovina, just 12 kilometres rom the centre o Valjevo, has maintained the traditional unity o school and church. Brankovina rose to prominence during the dramatic events o the 19th century and served as the birthplace o a number o key gures in Serbian culture. The village shares close ties with the remarkable Nenadović amily, which came to power during the Serbian revolution. Seven kilometres rom Valjevo is the world amous 14th-century Ćelije Monastery. Apart rom Ćelije, there are several other monasteries in this area dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries.
Petnica is the most popular destination or locals in the area. Just ve kilometres rom Valjevo, Petnica eatures a cave, a number o prehistoric archaeological sites and the remains o Ice Age auna. Petnica has an accumulation lake that’s ideal or shing, while there is also a sports and recreation centre with our outdoor swimming pools. Petnica is also home to a research centre or young people whose interests extend beyond the classroom. The River Gradac near Valjevo is truly a sight to behold. Awash with watermills and shponds, it is extremely rich in ora and auna. Travel south rom Valjevo and you will discover Maljen Mountain, amous or its blooming meadows o white daodils. This 1,108-metre-high mountain is home to a July estival dedicated to this beautiul ower. Holidaymakers seeking a mountain retreat should head to Divčibare, which oers an air spa and plenty o distractions. The area abounds with springs, streams and wateralls, including the Skakalo Waterall on the River Manastirka. Along with others in the area, this mountain resort has a number o excellent mountain lodges. The villages in the area a typical o the Šumadija style and specialise in producing mouthwatering duvan-čvarci (smoked pork scratchings).
MIONICA – SIGHTS Mionica is 92 kilometres rom Belgrade and its church is renowned or its Hadži-Ruvim Icon Painting School. The high-
BRANKOVINA
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the house where Živojin Mišić was born – A drink rom the Banja Vrujci Spring – A visit to the Jolić watermill near Lajkovac
Great Serbian poet Desanka Maksimović lauded the merits o the town o Brankovina in the 20th century. Her most amous collection o poems was called Tražim pomilovanje (I seek amnesty) and a visit to Brankovina will reveal her grave and a museum in her honour. Every May the town celebrates this great artist by hosting Desankini majski razgovori (Desanka’s May Discussions). Brankovina is also home to the Raspberry Day celebration, held each June.
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the Past light o the town is certainly its monument to Duke Živojin Mišić. Ten kilometres rom Mionica, the village o Struganik is home to the house where Mišić was born. This semi-cabin maintains the same interior rom Mišić’s youth. Each July the village hosts the Days o Mišić event (Mišićevi dani) to honour the amous Duke.
ACTIVITIES The majority o people in this area are involved in ruit growing and cattle breeding. However, as tourists have discovered the area Mionica has developed into a rural tourism destination. Head to Berkovac, Planinica and Popadić to discover it or yoursel. The scenic River Ribnica Gorge oers plenty o ideal spots or hunting and shing. Head to one o the area’s local traditional restaurants and sample some delicious local delicacies. Mionica is also home to the amous Banja Vrujci spa, which produces high quality bottled water ree o any preservatives.
LAJKOVAC Located 70 kilometres rom Belgrade, Lajkovac is one o the most important stops on the Belgrade–Bar railway. Its scenic surroundings and historical monuments draw visitors rom all over Serbia and the area’s most prominent cultural site is the Bogovađa Monastery, built in 1543.
JP „Vjv-“ P Mj 1/1, 14000 Vjv T: +381 14 221 138, 236 393 E-: vjv@p.k., vk@p.k. www.dvc.c. www.vjv-.c. www.dvc. T I C Vjv T: +381 14 236 393 T I C Dvč T: +381 14 277 252 E-: vdvc@.c T O „Rc“ Mc Vjvd Mšć 30, 14242 Mc T: +381 14 62 080 E-: c@.c www.c., www.c.w.c T I C Bj Vjc T: +381 14 66 030 Lajkovac is home to the only working stone watermill in the area. Built some 300 years ago along with 27 other mills along the River Kolubara, the Jolić watermill is still grinding wheat today.
UB Ub Municipality is a traditional wheat-growing region that also produces a range o agricultural products. Ub is also known or developing some o the most talented names in Serbian ootball, including Dragan Džajić. His success inspired the construction o a number o sports elds and athletic tracks here. Paljuve Lake, in the vicinity o Ub, is well known or its hunting and shing acilities.
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UŽICE, POŽEGA, KOSJERIĆ
An Unforgettable The Užice Fortress is easily the town’s main highlight. Its ruins are located west o the town centre high on the clis above the Đetinja, which ows in an S-shape here. You will nd an old-style miniature hydroelectric power plant rom 1900 in the picturesque valley below the old town. The plant was only the second in the world to apply the Tesla principle o polyphase electrical power. Today its working plant components are on display at the Museum o Technical Devices. Užice’s main town square, eaturing the National Theatre and National Library, was built ollowing WWII. Užice’s St. Sava square eatures the mid-19th century St. George’s Orthodox Cathedral.
ACTIVITIES I you are looking or an ideal spot to swim, head to the banks o the Đetinja near the town centre. Here you will nd a beautiul beach where the locals head to cool o during the hot summer months. There is even a diving competition o the old railway bridge. In the nearby village o Karan you will nd the White Church
WE RECOMMEND: – A train ride on the Šargan Eight railway – A tour o the village o Kremna and the legacy o the Tarabić amily – A shot o plum brandy in Požega
UŽICE – SIGHTS Užice is 187 kilometres rom Belgrade and accessible via road or rail routes. This charming town on the banks o the River Đetinja is nestled in a valley surrounded by lush orests and steep clis. Given its hilly geography, the town’s expansion has created steep streets and neighbourhoods removed rom the city centre. The history o the town dates back to Roman times, but according to town records Užice’s rst primary school and rst high school were only opened in 1839. Its rst post ofce opened in 1841 and its rst library and hospital were established in 1853. Užice ofcially became part o Serbia in 1866. At the beginning o WWII it was the centre o the reestanding territory, called the Republic o Užice. The town was under the control o the Partisans or 67 days beore being brutally occupied. For this reason the town was called Tito’s Užice (Titovo Užice) in 1946, a name it would keep until 1992.
POTTERY FROM ZLAKUSA You will nd the village o Zlakusa in the vicinity o Užice. Apart rom its scenic nature and meadows, rich in strawberries and medicinal herbs, Zlakusa is also known or its artul pottery. The local pottery tradition dates back three centuries and Zlakusa pottery includes clay stew pots and pans that give the ood prepared in them an extraordinary taste and smell. Ceramic amphorae made in Zlakusa have been exported to nearly every continent. Every summer Zlakusa hosts the International Art Colony o Ceramics and Pottery, while each autumn the town hosts the estive Autumn in Zlakusa event.
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(Bela crkva), dating back to 1337. Constructed in the Raška style, the church eatures original portraits o its patrons: St. Brian and his amily, Tsar Dušan and Tsarina Jelena. You will discover western Serbia’s most remarkable cave o the Belgrade–Užice motorway. The Potpeć Cave eatures a 50-metre-high entrance and you can explore its unusual shape and exquisite ormations thanks to 555 metres o installed lighting.
POŽEGA
In Kadinjača you will nd a monument dedicated to a Partisan battalion that was killed ollowing the loss o the independent Republic o Užice. It is located just 14 kilometres rom Užice on a high plateau. Meanwhile, in nearby Sevojno you will nd a logcabin style church and the Terzića avlija ethno park, dedicated to preserving the tradition and olklore o this region.
Built in 1839, Požega’s main church honours Emperor Constantine and Empress Jelena. The Godovik Monastery, dedicated to St. George, was one o the rst monasteries to be built in this region during the golden era o the Nemanjić Dynasty. The log cabin style church in the nearby village o Gorobilje is amous or its icons o St. John the Baptist, the Holy Apostle and the Last Supper. Though the artist is unknown, the inuence o Russian baroque is clearly evident in the icons.
The amous Tarabić amily hailed rom the village o Kremna, which is located between mounts Tara and Zlatibor. The Kremna prophecies are attributed to this amily. Kremna was converted into an air spa at the beginning o the 20th century. The town o Mokra Gora is amous or the Šargan Eight Railway and Drvengrad (Wooden Town). One o the most ascinating and un destinations in Europe, the Šargan Eight Railway orms a gure eight loop and oers a ride eaturing stunning valleys, mountain views and tunnels that’s un or all the amily. Drvengrad is Mokra Gora’s lm-themed ethno village that was built by local lm director Emir Kusturica on Mećavnik Hill. The charming traditional village eatures a small Russian-style church dedicated to St. Sava, a town square made entirely out o wood, traditional Serbian and Bosnian log cabins, a gallery, library and cinema. Drvengrad’s annual Zavičajni dani (Native Land Days) draws a number o tourists rom Serbia and across the world.
Located 180 kilometres rom Belgrade and 25 kilometres rom Užice, the town o Požega is rich in springs, sparkling mountain streams and crystal clear mineral water. Požega is renowned or growing plums that are ideal or the production o rakija or slivovitz (plum brandy).
KOSJERIĆ Kosjerić Municipality, 136 kilometres rom Belgrade just o the highway leading to Montenegro, comprises ve charming villages. The municipality is home to the Čobanski Dani (Shepherd’s Days) event, which takes place every July. This estive event celebrates traditional customs and traditions, drawing over 1,000 exhibitors and thousands o visitors.
T O Užc T pz 10, 31000 Užc T: +381 31 592 419 E-: @p.k., c@p.k. www.zzc.., www... T I C Užc Dj Tcvć 52, 31000 Užc T: +381 31 500 555 E-: c@. T O Pž Mcpy Fck – Bz c, 31210 Pž T: +381 31 714 650 E-: pz@p.k. www.pz.. T O Kjć Mcpy Kđđv . 66, 31260 Kjć T: +381 31 782 155 E-: k@.c., k@p.k. www.kjc-.c, www.ckd.
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BAJINA BAŠTA, TARA, DRINA
Down the Raging Rapi BAJINA BAŠTA – SIGHTS
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Rača Monastery – A stroll through the Tepih livada (Meadow Carpets) o Tara National Park – Rating down the Drina Canyon
Tucked away in the oothills o Mount Tara close to Serbia’s border with Bosnia, Bajina Bašta is accessible rom Belgrade via Užice (180 kilometres) or Valjevo (150 kilometres). Oten reerred to as the pearl o western Serbia, this beautiul mountain town lies on the shores o the River Drina. Built in 1882, Bajina Bašta’s streets all intersect at a right angle, while its beautiul homes and beaches on the Drina make this city a antastic getaway. Just six kilometres south o Bajina Bašta you will discover the 13th-century Rača Monastery, ounded by King Dragutin. Nestled in the Tara oothills, the monastery was once a centre or transcribing liturgical books. The Rača School o transcription is lauded as the guardian o Serbia’s national identity.
ACTIVITIES Every rst week in October Bajina Bašta and Rača host the Days o Rača event, which ea-
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tures an intense artistic programme and scientic discussions. Outstanding creators who participate in the event are awarded the Rača Diploma.
TARA – SIGHTS Tara National Park comprises Tara Mountain, Zvijezda Mountain and a portion o the Drina Canyon. With over 1000 species o plants and owers, Tara is home to nearly a third o Serbia’s ora. The park, which is 80% orestland, provides a natural habitat or the chamois, brown bear and the native Pančićev skakavac (Pančić’s grasshopper). Tara is also home to over 130 bird and 37 sh species. The unique peat that blankets the ground is called Tepih livada (meadow carpet) and can truly make you eel as though you are walking on a carpet. Tara is renowned or its plentiul water sources. The park eatures a network o springs and streams that ow into the Drina. The Perućac Spring spouts an astonishing 300 litres o water per second into the Drina, while Tara’s most spectacular wateralls are the Veliki and Mali Skakavac.
DRINA – SIGHTS The Drina surrounds Tara to the north and west. Perućac Lake, created with the construction o a 93-metre dam extending to Višegrad, is a popular spot or rating and shing. The spectacular crystal clear lake covers a surace area o 28 square kilometres, is 55 kilometres long and 88 m deep. The nearby Zaovine Lake, connected to Perućac Lake via a tunnel, is also an idyllic spot to enjoy a rereshing swim. The impressive Drina Canyon is located just upstream rom the dam and is the world’s third deepest canyon. Though the construction o a hydroelectric plant has made rating along certain points o the Drina challenging, experienced kayakers still navigate these dynamic waters.
ACTIVITIES Bajina Bašta is home to the greatest rally races in Serbia and every year the best drivers compete in the Hill Race, Obren Tešić Memorial Tara Rally and the YU rally European Championship. Motor sports lovers hoping to watch this adrenaline-uelled extravaganza can nd comortable accommodations at the Omorika or Beli Bor hotels or in one o numerous private B&Bs around Tara.
PANČIĆ SPRUCE (SERBIAN SPRUCE) Tara is home to the rare Pančić spruce, which is native to Serbia. The tree is named ater Josi Pančić, a amous Serbian biologist and the rst president o the Serbian Academy o Sciences. Pančić discovered the spruce in 1871 and you will only nd the spruce, which is protected by the state, along the middle section o the River Drina. Though the Pančić spruce can reach a height o 35 metres, its short branches make it appear even taller. I you want to get a good look at this natural wonder, head to Bilješka stijena just above Perućac Lake.
T d Sp C Bj Bš M Ovć 34/2, 31250 Bj Bš T: +381 31 865 900 E-: z@-j.c www.-j.c, www..
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ČAJETINA, ZLATIBOR
Mountain Views Serbia. This protected area is a museum complex comprising ty beautiully decorated buildings that evoke images o lie in this part o Serbia during bygone centuries. The homes in this region are not only specic to the Zlatibor region, but also Bosnia and a vast area o Croatia. Sirogojno’s homes were built on an incline and each eatures a stone oundation once used as a semi-submerged cellar. The upper living quarters o the homes are constructed o wood. Not a single binding or nail was used to build these homes.
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Staro Selo Museum in Sirogojno – A visit to one o the wateralls near Gostilje – A taste o traditional smoked ham and komplet lepinja (a meat and egg sandwich)
ČAJETINA AND ZLATIBOR – SIGHTS Čajetina lies on the northern edge o Zlatibor Mountain and the town itsel is 230 kilometres southwest o Belgrade via the highway towards Užice and the Montenegrin coast. Zlatibor Mountain is known or its pleasant climate, beautiul landscapes and clean air. The average altitude o the Zlatibor plateau is 1000m, while its highest peaks are Tornik (1496 m) and Čigota (1422m). Zlatibor’s magnicent scenery includes meadows, pastures, pine woods, brooks and streams. At Crni Rzav you will nd the glorious Ribnica Lake, while the River Gostilje eatures a magnicent waterall. Zlatibor’s high altitude and sun-drenched days make it an ideal year-round destination. Visitors come rom ar and wide to enjoy sports, recreation, relaxation, conerences and outdoor un. Individuals suering rom thyroid ailments come to Zlatibor to enjoy the resh mountain air and seek treatment at one o the area’s specialised clinics. The majority o acilities or visitors are located in the centre o Zlatibor. The town oers a wide range o hotels, B&Bs, inns and recreational centres to ensure your stay is a comortable one. While in Zlatibor take advantage o the opportunity to sample one o the region’s many local delicacies. Zlatibor’s restaurants, caes and inns oer kajmak (a creamy cheese curd), smoked ham, cheese and zlatiborska komplet lepinja (a sandwich made with pork, roast lamb, scrambled eggs and kajmak). The town’s caes and nightclubs oer great entertainment. Check with one o the local tourism organisations or details. We highly recommend a trip to Staro Selo (Old Village) in Sirogojno, which symbolises the traditional architecture and liestyle o this region. The most historically signicant parts o this village are under state protection, as they represent the very best o traditional structures in southeast
The museum complex oers a diverse mix o local souvenirs and handmade sweaters eaturing motis o this region. These unique garments have put Sirogojno on the world map. The complex also eatures a herbal pharmacy and an inn, both constructed in the traditional style. The charming 1764 St. Peter and Paul Church is perched atop a hill overlooking the complex. Zlatibor is renowned or handmade crats. Knitted sweaters and handmade clothing rom the region are richly decorated and you can nd a range o crats at Zlatibor’s vibrant markets.
ACTIVITIES During the summer season you can enjoy relaxing walks, hikes, bicycle excursions and horse-riding along one o Zlatibor’s many trails. You can also swim in one o the numerous resort swimming pools and bathing spots. Zlatibor oers many various sports elds, acilities and gyms or athletes o all levels. You can attend one o many diverse cultural and entertainment events that are organised daily during the summer season. Outdoor stages eature concerts, plays, estivals and presentations. Hotels organise painting exhibitions, literary evenings and public discussions. Čajetina’s library, cinema and theatre also oer a
T O „Z“ Md Pć 2, 31315 Z T: +381 31 841 646 E-: z@p. www.z.. T I C Z T: +381 31 845 103 E-: c.z@.c
and Delicacies range o cultural events. There is never a shortage o exciting events and excursions to experience in Zlatibor and visitors can choose rom one o a dozen organised activities in the area. They include the Stopića Cave, with its unique rimmed stone walls, and the Gostilje waterall, one o the tallest in Serbia. You can also visit the beautiul Uvac and Dubrava monasteries, which are symbols o Serbia’s spirituality and history, as well as the log cabin churches o Jablanica and Dobroselica. Stop by the art galleries o Borova glava, Trnava and Šljivovica to learn about Zlatibor’s artistic inclinations. You can also see the birthplaces o two o the area’s amous citizens: Dimitirije Tucović and Sava Jovanović Sirogojno. I you want to experience the great outdoors, head to the Tornik and Čigota peaks or spectacular views. Winter visitors to Zlatibor should be prepared or some serious un and outdoor recreation. Whether you choose to ski, sledge or ride a snowmobile, you will be amazed by the area’s majestic snow-covered landscape. I you are looking or the perect winter getaway, head to the Tornik ski centre, which oers seven kilometres o ski runs or skiers o all prociency levels. Visitors to Zlatibor come back time and again to enjoy its extraordinary nature, rich cultural heritage and great accommodation. It is no surprise that Zlatibor is one o Serbia’s most coveted destinations.
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ZLATIBOR SMOKED HAM Zlatibor smoked ham is a delicacy o southwestern Serbia that has been produced in the Zlatibor region or over a century. The process, which is completely natural, has remained unchanged over the past century. Zlatibor’s climate, air and the salting process are key actors adding to the quality o the ham. The most popular variety comes rom the village o Mačkat, where it was rst produced. Though other regions have attempted to make this unique ham, none have managed to match the superior quality o the Zlatibor variety. For the past ew years the village o Mačkat has successully organised the Pršutijada (smoked ham estival) every January. Sample a piece o this delectable local delicacy and you will not be disappointed!
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NOVA VAROŠ, ZLATAR, PRIJEPOLJE, PRIBOJ
The Majestic Mileševa T d Sp C „Z“ – Nv Vš Kđđv 36, 31320 Nv Vš T: +381 33 62 621 E-: cz@vv., z@v. www.z.. T O Pjpj T v jdv 1, 31300 Pjpj T: +381 33 710 140 E-: pjpj@.c www.zpjpj.. T O Pj Mcpy 12. j 108, 31330 Pj T: +381 33 451 599 E-: pj@yh.c www.pj.. T I C Pjk Bj T: +381 33 448 500
NOVA VAROŠ – SIGHTS Nova Varoš is located in the central part o southwestern Serbia’s Zlatibor region. The municipality, which lies 280 kilometres rom Belgrade, is accessible via motorway M21 towards the Adriatic Sea. The area is renowned or its majestic scenic landscapes, reshwater springs, hydroelectric energy and lush orests. Nova Varoš is well known or its large-scale agricultural output, cattle breeding and dairy production, while Zlatar cheese is a speciality o the region. Nova Varoš oers plenty o potential to develop its ruit growing, beekeeping and orest ruit processing industries. The municipality is a key producer o buckwheat, an ingredient used in various national dishes and a highly sought ater organic grain on the world market. The Holy Trinity Church and Mosque are among Nova Varoš’s main landmarks. Venture beyond the town and you will discover the Dubnica Monastery in Božetići and the Štitkovo ethno village o the Nemanjić period. Zlatar Mountain is just north o Nova Varoš. Some 22 kilometres long and 12 kilometres wide, its highest peak is Golo brdo at an altitude o 1627 metres. Zlatar is surrounded by the River Lim to the west, the River Uvac to the east, the River Bistrica to the north and the River Mileševo to the south. The mountain and its surroundings are truly breath-taking. I you are on Mount Zlatar, a visit to the log cabin church in Radijevići is a must. Built by priest Vasilije Purić in 1808, the church oers eatures similar to those constructed by the Vlachs. The church, which contains ve exquisite and well-preserved icons by Andrija Raičević,
is under state protection as a monument o cultural signicance. Along with Zlatar, Murternica Mountain also dominates this region. You will nd the oldest log cabin church atop one o its ridges in Peti. Dedicated to the Birth o the Most Holy Mother o God, the church was built in 1832 with the help o Archbishop Mihailo.
ACTIVITIES The Bukovik Cave and Ušačka Cave system are a must-see or anyone interested in exploring ascinating caves. At 6.2 kilometres, this is the longest speleological site in Serbia. Some o the caves in the system belong to the Uvac Nature Reserve and are only accessible via water. The beautiul Zlatarsko, Sjeničko, Radoinjsko and Potpećko lakes oer endless possibilities or camping, swimming, shing and boating. The hydroelectric power o each o these lakes is harnessed via the Uvac, Kokin Brod, Bistrica and Potpeć plants. One o Europe’s largest dams is located at Kokin Brod just 11 kilometres nor th o Nova Varoš towards Zlatibor. The construction o the dam created the beautiul 30-km Zlatar Lake, which contains over 100 million cubic metres o water.
National Tourism Organisation Organisation of Serbia
Tourist info Tourist and Souvenir Souvenir shop National Tourism Organisation of Serbia
Čk Lj 8, B T: +381 11 6557 127 @., www.. WORKING HOURS: MONDAY - FRI FRIDA DAY: Y: 09-20 09-20 SATURDAY: 09-17 SUNDAY: 10-16
National Tourism Organisation of Serbia
National Tourism Organisation of Serbia
The Danube in Serbia www.y.
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Monastery
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PRIJEPOLJE – SIGHTS The town o Prijepolje lies in the heart o the Lim Valley. Initially developed at the conuence o the rivers Lim and Mileševka, its microclimate is a result o its location 140 kilometres rom the sea and 160 kilometres rom the Pannonian Basin. The 1734-metre-high Jadovnik Mountain is the highest peak in this rugged mountainous region, while its lowest point (440 m) lies at the conuence o the Mileševka and Lim. According to archaeological ndings, numerous civilisations have let their mark here, though the modern town’s roots are tied to the Mileševa Monastery, ounded in 1234 by King Vladislav. The monastery is one o the most renowned in Serbia or its extraordinary rescoes, including the enchanting White Angel resco. For a number o years the monastery was also the gravesite o St. Sava, Serbia’s rst Archbishop. Bosnian Ban Tvrtko was crowned here in 1377, while in the 15th century the monastery served as the residence o Mileševo Metropolitanate. One o Serbia’s rst printing shops opened here in the 16th century. This exquisite monastery is a must-see! Apart rom Mileševa, the Kumanica, Mili and Davidovića monasteries are also worth visiting and were restored ten years ago.
ACTIVITIES For specic details o places to see and things to do in the area, including the Limski darovi (Lim gits) and Limska regata (Lim regatta) events, check with one o the local tourism organisations.
PRIBOJ – SIGHTS Priboj is located on the banks o the River Lim and is divided into old and new sections. The area is known or its turbulent past and succession o dierent rulers, including Romans, Turks and Austro-Hungarians. In the Middle Ages the old caravan road here served as the shortest route between Constantinople (Istanbul) and Dubrovnik. The native museum in Priboj eatures a number o exhibits about daily lie in the region.
ACTIVITIES Priboj’s vast orests oer ample opportunities or hunting and the Javorje hunting reserve is home to a protected species o mountain bears. The town organises a traditional wol hunt every year in mid-October. At an altitude o 550 metres, the Pribojska Banja spa is perched on a high plateau and boasts thermal and mineral resources. Come and enjoy its scenic views!
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the medieval town o Jerina on the River Lim – A visit to the stunning Mileševa Monastery – White-water rating on the Lim and Uvac
THE GRIFFON VULTURE The Uvac wildlie reserve is home to the majestic grifon vulture (Gyps ulvus). This species is the last in the vulture amily to have survived in Serbia. Resembling an eagle, the grifon vulture’s wingspan can reach up to three metres. The grifon vulture plays a unique role in the ecosystem, eeding on the carcasses o dead animals, that is key to preventing the spread o inectious diseases.
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IVANJICA, GOLIJA, ARILJE
Raspberry Fields IVANJICA – SIGHTS Ivanjica is located in southwestern Serbia some 224 kilometres rom Belgrade. Bordering the municipalities o Sjenica, Nova Varoš, Raška, Novi Pazar, Kraljevo, Lučani and Arilje, Ivan jica lies on the banks o the River Moravica, which originates at an altitude o 468 metres, deep inside the Golija Mountain. Ivanjica is an air spa and i you happen to visit the town and surrounding area you will discover numerous other spas and restorative centres. Stroll through Ivanjica and you will come across the beautiul 1836 St. Emperor Constantine and Empress Jelena Church and the charming stone bridge across the Moravica. Built in 1904, it is the largest single-arch bridge in the Balkans. Ivanjica’s power station was built in 1911 and created a beautiul waterall on the Moravica that is now a key symbol o the city. Though the station still unctions, today it acts mostly as an exhibit o the technology available at the time. perienced it, you can see hal o Serbia rom the top o Golija Mountain. In the winter months the mountain sparkles with a heavy blanket o snow. The mountain abounds with springs, clean Explore beyond Ivanjica and you will discover the Palibrčki mountain water, over 100 types o medicinal herbs, hunting gravesite. According to legend, it contains the tomb o the game and rivers and brooks brimming with sh. Jugović brothers on the site where the Lazarica Church was built. At an altitude o 1500m, Tičar Lake is perched high atop You will nd the incredible Hadži-Prodanova C a v e Dajić Hill and is a avourite spot or the region’s shermen. The just 10 kilometres rom Ivanjica. The cave nearby lake on Okruglica was created in 1974 ollowing an inhas two oors, two side canals and sevtense earthquake in neighbouring Romania. Kašinovo Lake, eral large hallways. The entranceway also in the vicinity, is covered with peat vegetation. The wameasures three metres in length. The teralls along the River Izubri are stunningly beautiul, while overall size o the cave remains unhunting and shing are popular activities among the locals in known, with just 400 metres this region. Golija’s traditional Wol Hunt is the most renowned o it having been explored. event o its kind anywhere in Serbia. Come see this natural Apart rom Golija, Javor Mountain represents the other maphenomenon or your jor highlight o this scenic region. Known or its deciduous orsel. ests and plentiul springs, Javor’s highest peak – Vasilije Peak According to – reaches 1,520m. You will nd a monument to Major Ilić, hero those who o the Javor War, in the oothills o the mountain. have exPridvorica Monastery in the village o the same name is just 28 kilometres southeast o Ivanjica. The monastery, representative o the Raška architectural school, is reerred to in the medieval Charter o Ne-
ACTIVITIES
WE RECOMMEND: – A good time at the estival o traditional Serbian song in Prilike – A visit to the raspberry felds o Arilje – A visit to the impressive Hadži-Prodanova Cave
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Galore manja. The 1606 Kovilje Monastery, located in the village o Smiljevac, sits atop a cli overlooking the River Moravica. The monastery was home to a seminary school or uture priests and has unctioned as a regular parish church since 1813.
ARILJE – SIGHTS The small town o Arilje, 195 kilometres rom Belgrade, Was proclaimed the centre o the Moravička Episcopacy by Sava Nemanjić in 1219. The symbol o the town is the St. Ahilije Church, which was built by Dragutin Nemanjić between 1283 and 1296. Today Arilje is best known or its plentiul elds o raspberries. The town abounds with sparkling springs that supply drinking water or approximately 300,000 people in ve municipalities. municipalities.
ACTIVITIES The nearby village o Visoka eatures a therapeutic mineral spa. The water, which has an average temperature o 28 degrees Celsius, is known or its healing powers. The spa draws individuals suering rom bone disease, heart disease and vision problems. Explore this area urther and you will discover a beautiul water cave in a canyon near the River Panjica between the villages o Brekovo and Dobrača.
GOLIJA MOUNTAIN: MOUNTAIN: A UNESCO BIOSPHERE AREA On September 21st 2001 UNESCO declared Golija Mountain a Biosphere Area. The government o Serbia has designated 53,804 hectares in the area as a Nature Park and Wildlie Reserve. Golija Mountain is now one o 211 wildlie reserves worldwide and the only one in Serbia.
T O Ivjc Mcpy Z Đđć 47, 32250 Ivjc T: +381 32 665 085, 650 290 E-: vjc@. www.v.
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NOVI PAZAR, SJENICA
Homeland of
NOVI PAZAR – SIGHTS
STARI RAS
Novi Pazar is located 280 kilometres rom Belgrade on the road to Kraljevo and Raška. Located at the conuence o the Jošanica and Raška rivers, the city was built in the 15th century near Ras, the capital o the rst Serbian state, and Stari Pazar (Trgovište).
Though much mystery remains about the history o Stari Ras, the town has been bee n a UNSESCO world heritage site since 1979. The surrounding area ofers plenty o beautiul monasteries, including Gradac, Studenica, Petrova crkva, Đurđevi Stupovi, Crna Reka, Končul and Sopoćani.
Serbia’s most prominent medieval clergymen and rulers were born in this region. The inuence o both Christian and Islamic culture is evident in the plethora o monuments dedicated to each religion. Izabeg Isaković laid the oundations o Novi Pazar’s eastern style architecture. The city’s original name, Jeni Bazar, is o Turkish origin. The Altun-alem Mosque is easily the city’s most spectacular site. This 16th-century structure eatures precious stones, alternating layers o stone and brick, and was initially built as a one-room building with a porch and stone minaret. Stroll down to Novi Pazar’s town park and you will discover the remains o a 17th century Turkish ortress. This structure eatures two towers, barracks and a small mosque, which were added ater the completion o the structure. Novi Pazar’s 15th-century Turkish bath is the oldest in Serbia. This incredible structure eatures eleven domes o varying sizes, alternating brick and stone walls and glass windows. There are male and emale areas, as well as dressing, relaxation and massage rooms. The bath, which has been in use or over 400 years, is located in Novopazarska Banja spa. Due to its geographical position and natural beauty, the area surrounding Novi Pazar has always been densely populated. Today Novi Pazar’s economy is mainly ocused on trade. I you are looking or the perect pair o jeans or shoes, Novi Pazar will not disappoint.
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Sopoćani Monastery – A taste o Sjenica cheese and Pešter lamb – A stroll through Novi Pazar’s old commercial heart
ACTIVITIES Novi Pazar also prides itsel on its rich culture. The Novi Pazar School o traditional painting techniques and the annual chorus estival are two unique examples o what the city has to oer. Ras, the capital o the rst medieval Serbian state during the Nemanjić Dynasty, is just eight kilometres west o Novi Pazar near Gradina and Trgovište. Explore beyond Raška and you will discover the remains o an incredible ortress that some believe was the castle o Stean Nemanja. The irregularly shaped structure was uncovered during an archaeological dig that began some 30 years ago ago. Th The exc excavation is still in progress and archaeologists have uncovered a monastery and church dedicated to St. Archangels below the ortress. Some believe the Gospel o Vuk was written here. There are resc o e s
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here dating back to the 8th century, as well as scriptures rom the 16th and 17th centuries. The archaeological complex includes a cemetery and a collection o churches and other structures in Pazarište. King Radoslav established the rst Serbian mint in Ras. The oldest church in Serbia, Rotonda, can be ound just 16 kilometres southwest o Novi Pazar. Dedicated to St. Peter and Paul, Rotonda was a medieval Episcopal centre and gathering place or Serbian rulers. Its circular base, which eatures our apses, a tower and a gallery, were built during the 8th and 9th centuries. Its core represents an early Christian structure and likely dates back to the 6th century. Several o the church’s 13th-century rescoes have been preserved. Below the church is a protohistorical protohistorical tumulus, which once contained Greek vases, gold jewellery, jewellery, amber and other 5th and 6th century pagan treasures. A spectacular example o medieval architecture and resco painting, the Sopoćani Monastery is one o Serbia’s cultural treasures. It represents the best o medieval architecture and resco art. The monastery, located on the River Raška 15 kilometres west o Novi Pazar, is considered one o Serbia’s most beautiul and sacred monasteries.
SJENICA – SIGHTS Sjenica, a beautiul, traditional Serbian town, is situated on the Pešter plateau, which is known or cattle breeding and excellent cheese. The plateau boasts a number o underground rivers, including the 15-km River Borovštica, which has an incredible 140 abysses. Just 14 kilometres north o Sjenica sits one o Serbia’s rare medieval bridges. The bridge crosses the Uvac and is located near the village o Ursule. Venture beyond Sjenica and discover the small town o Tutin. With temperatures that can reach minus 37 degrees Celsius in winter, winter, the town and its surroundings are known or enduring some o the coldest temperatures in Serbia. Though the air is cold, the people are warm and hospitable. Come and see or yoursel!
King Uroš I Nemanjić (1243–1276) built Sopoćani. He spent the last year o his lie at the monastery and wished to be buried here ater having entered a monastic order and changed his name to Simeon. O the greater monastery complex, only the Church o the Holy Trinity, with its one naval basilica and Raška-style cupola, has been preserved. Painted in the second hal o the 13th century, Sopoćani’s rescoes are truly impressive. Their astonishing compositions, displaying harmony and sophisticated beauty, have put Sopoćani on the world map. The Ascension o the Most Holy Mother o God, which appears on the west wall o the church, was deemed the most beautiul resco o the Middle Ages at an exhibition in Paris in 1961. Stean Nemanja built the 1170 Đurđevi Stupovi Monastery in honour o St. George, who saved him rom the dungeon. It is named ater its high bell-towers, which are unique to Serbian medieval architecture. The architecture, architecture, which bears a Roman inuence, is marked by the gradual composition o masses around the central part o the tower. The ragments o original rescos here are well preserved.
T O Nv Pz 28. v 27, 36300 Nv Pz T: +381 20 338 030 E-: .p@.c www.p. T O Sjc T Svz Mkvć , 36310 Sjc T: +381 20 744 843 E-: @zjc.c www.zjc.c www.p..
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RAŠKA, KOPAONIK
A Land that RAŠKA – SIGHTS Established by Prince Aleksandar Karađorđević in 1845, Raška is one o Serbia’s newest towns. It lies 82 kilometres south o Kraljevo and 252 kilometres rom Belgrade at the conuence o the Raška and Ibar rivers and was named ater the river and region it inhabits. Raška is considered the most urban town o its period. Apart rom its short urban history, archaeological ndings suggest the existence o a settlement on the same site long beore the establishment o the present-day town. There are a number o archaeological sites near Raška, including Zajčaka and the village o Rvati, which have not been ully explored. Today Raška is a modern town. There are an amazing 550 metres o water per square kilometre in the vicinity o Raška. The River Ibar and its tributaries, the rivers Brenevica, Jošanica, Rudnička and Radošička, create a dense hydrographic network. The town is also blessed with a wealth o ore resources and mineral water springs. The Marina mineral springs, the Barska Waterall, Semeteško Lake, as well as Kopaonik – the amous winter mountain resort – are all located in the vicinity o Raška.
ACTIVITIES Explore beyond Raška and you will discover monasteries in the vicinity that date back to the early Middle Ages. The 13th-century Gradac Monastery is especially intriguing. The monastery’s Holy Mother o God Church was built as the burial site or Queen and great patroness Jelena Anžujska (Hélène d’Anjou), wie o King Uroš I. The Končul Monastery is located three kilometres rom Raška on the shores o the Ibar. Some believe Nemanja, one o the prominent Serbs o his time, personally ounded the monastery. The St. Nicholas Church adjacent to the monastery remains standing to this day. The Stara Pavlica Monastery is located in the village o Pavlica, six kilometres north o Raška. Built in the late 12th century beore the time o the Nemanjić Dynasty, all that remains o the monastery is a partially preserved church in honour o St. Peter and Paul, the monastery’s patrons.
Built by the wealthy Musić brothers in the late 14th century, the Nova Pavlica Monastery neighbours Stara Pavlica Monastery. Nova Pavlica’s church is dedicated to the Initiation o the Most Holy Mother o God. The mother o the Musić brothers and Dragana, Tsar Lazar’s sister, both wore the monastic habit in this monastery. Dragana, who was known as Teodosija, died here as a nun.
KOPAONIK – SIGHTS Located in the centre o the Balkan Peninsula, the Kopaonik mountain range is the most expansive in Serbia. Kopaonik’s name originates rom the medieval mine diggers (kopati – to dig) who extracted iron and silver rom the mountain. The Ve-
HOT SPRINGS There are a number o thermal springs originating deep in the valleys o Kopaonik. The 78.5C water at Jošanička Banja spa ofers a range o medical benets, as well as being ideal or bathing and drinking. Inhale its soothing vapours and relax. But be careul: i you were to drop an egg in this water it would be hard boiled in less than ve minutes!
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Heals netians called Kopaonik Montagna del Argento. O its 70 kilometre North-to-South span, only the 1600m Suvo Rudište Plateau is under state protection. Peaks under protection include the Karaman and Gobelja (1934m), Kukavica (1726m), and the highest, Pančićev (2017m), which oers spectacular views o large portions o Serbia. The peak was named ater Josi Pančić (1814–1888), a amous Serbian biologist who was a requent visitor to Kopaonik and wished to be buried here. His wish was ullled in 1951, when his remains were buried at the highest point on the mountain. The Kopaonik National Park includes breath-taking orested hills and the beautiul valleys o the Rasina and Brzećka rivers. Banjski Kopaonik is located north o Suvo Rudište, with Vučak, its highest peak (1718 m), overlooking Jošanička Banja spa. Kopaonik eatures exceptional ora and auna. Its orests change in composition as the elevation rises. Oak is ollowed by beech, which then gives way to pine. The Suvati (cattle pastures) are located above the tree line. They oer plentiul land or grassing and eature a network o springs that send water rapidly down the mountainside. Kopaonik is home to wolves, oxes, rabbits, eagles and the Colias balcanica, a rare species o buttery.
ACTIVITIES Kopaonik is a avourite spot or winter sports enthusiasts. While it receives plenty o snow, it also boasts an average 200 sunny days per year. Kopaonik’s main resort centre is the Konaci Complex (konaci – residences). There are two main roads leading to the complex: one rom Jošanička Banja spa and the other rom Brus, via Brzeće. The resort has 22 ski lits or 23 trails. They include our or children, 12 or beginners, ve or intermediate and two or advanced skiers. Overall there are 44 kilometres o trails, with an additional 20 kilometres designed or cross-country skiing. Kopaonik also oers plenty o activities or summer visitors to enjoy, including hiking, tennis, ootball and basketball.
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WE RECOMMEND: – A summer hike along one o Kopaonik’s many trails – A winter ski trip to Kopaonik – A visit to Raška’s annual spiritual ceremonies
T d Sp O Ršk Nj 1, 36350 Ršk T: +381 36 738 670 E-: c@k-z., k@. www.k-z.
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KRALJEVO
Valley beloved by ments o Balkan architecture rom the rst hal o the 19th century. Today it is home to the Vladika (Bishop) Nikolaj Velimirović Spiritual Centre.
WE RECOMMEND: – Admiring the magnifcent rescoes o the Žiča Monastery – Experiencing the sights and scents o lilacs in the River Ibar Valley – Participating in the Merry Descent rating estivities in Kraljevo
SIGHTS Located close to the conuence o the rivers Ibar and Western (Zapadna) Morava, Kraljevo is 174 kilometres rom Belgrade via Highway E-75. Kraljevo is Serbia’s largest municipality, while the city o Kraljevo is the administrative, cultural and economic centre o the Raška region o central Serbia. Previously known as Karanovac, the city was renamed Kraljevo in 1882 to coincide with the coronation o Milan Obrenović at Žiča Monastery as modern Serbia’s rst king ollowing the end o Turkish rule. During WWII the city suered a great tragedy when 5,750 local citizens were shot in an act o retribution. Walk around Kraljevo and you will nd a memorial park in their honour. Prince Miloš Obrenović drew the rst city plan or present-day Kraljevo by nger in a sand-lled pan. Laza Zuban used this crude sketch in 1832 in his endeavour to convert this settlement into a modern city. The city eatures three main boulevards. A network o perpendicular streets starts at the city square and ans out in our directions. As a result o this structured city grid, Kraljevo is considered a masterpiece o Serbian urbanism. Contemporary Kraljevo is not only a prominent cultural, educational and economic centre, it also draws plenty o visitors. Apart rom several cultural and arts societies, the city’s museum, theatre, library, archives and other prominent institutions oer a host o interesting displays and inormation about the city. Kraljevo also organises several art colonies and estive events, including The Days o Lilacs and the Ibar Merry Descent estivals. Any trip to Kraljevo would not be complete without a visit to the Church o the Ascension o the Most Holy Mother o God. This temple, built by Prince Miloš Obrenović is the most sacred preserved structure in the city. Stroll through the city and discover Master Vasa’s residence. Built in the residence style o the Miloš’s period, it eatures ele-
Explore beyond Kraljevo and tour the exquisite Žiča Monastery near the ertile plains o the village o Kruševica. Located just six kilometres rom Kraljevo, this brick stone and stalagmite monastery is painted a vivid red. I Kraljevo was the city o kings, then Žiča was their temple. The monastery is one o the greatest sanctuaries o the Serbian people. Stean Prvovenčani (Stean, the First Crowned), 1195–1223, the rst king o the Serbian state who was crowned here in 1217, ounded the monastery. According to historical records, the construction o Žiča began when St. Sava returned rom Greece’s Hilandar in 1206. His goal was to complete the monastery beore the crowning o its patron in 1217. The Žiča Monastery complex was built as the seat o the Serbian Archdiocese and as a place o ordination or leading clergymen. The Church o the Ascension o the Lord and the small church dedicated to St. Peter and Paul are the only original structures remaining in the complex, with the other standing structures built later. Žiča’s architecture typies the Raška School. It eatures a single nave church with a semi-circular altar apse on the east side, a dome on the
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west side and an orthogonal reader on the south and north sides o the building. According to experts, the mural inside Žiča was developed in three phases over an entire century (1219–1316). It consists o three distinct parts, diering in style and origin. The monastery includes a mesmerising collection o rescoes eaturing portraits o Stean Prvovenčani and his son Radoslav, who was also crowned here. Maglič is one o the most well preserved ortied medieval towns in Serbia. Unortunately, little is known about the origins o this hilltop ortress 30 kilometres southwest o Kraljevo. I you are traveling to the Kraljevo–Raška region during May, you will be rewarded with a stunning view o the River Ibar Valley’s lilacs in ull bloom. King Uroš I rst planted the lilacs here to welcome his betrothed, Hélène d’Anjou, and to remind her o her native Provence.
STUDENICA MONASTERY Once the political, cultural and spiritual centre o medieval Serbia, the Studenica Monastery is located between Kraljevo and Novi Pazar, close to the town o Ušće. Founded by Stean Nemanja in 1190, the monastery is dedicated to the Ascension o the Most Holy Mother o God. The monastery complex comprises three churches: the Mother o God Church, the St. Joachim and Anna Church, and the St. Nicholas Church. Studenica is an incredible cultural treasure that appeals to spiritual pilgrims, historians and art lovers alike. The monastery has been under UNESCO protection as a world heritage site since 1986.
ACTIVITIES Mataruška Banja spa is located just eight kilometres rom Kraljevo on the banks o the River Ibar. The 15-hectare park is situated in the scenic mountains o Stolovi and Čemerno. With a temperature o 42-51°C, the hot springs are quite sulphuric and are used to treat a range o ailments. Bogutovačka Banja spa, another spa close to Kraljevo, is a peaceul place surrounded by woods and the River Lopatnica. The spa, known or its calming eects, is an ideal holiday destination. Just 20 kilometres or Kraljevo, Goč Mountain eatures a range o sports acilities. Though a popular training site or athletes, the mountain also attracts children or its recreational acilities.
T O Kjv T Spkh k 25, 36000 Kjv T: +381 36 316 000, 311 192 E-: jk@. www.jk.. T I C Kjv T: +381 36 316 000 E-: k@.
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VRNJAČKA BANJA
The Queen of SIGHTS Vrnjačka Banja is Serbia’s best-known spa. Located 195 kilometres rom Belgrade, the spa is accessible via highways E-761 or E-75 (to Pojate). Those heading to Vrnjačka Banja in July and August and eeling adventurous should take the Romantika steam train and hop o at the oot o Mount Goč. Though no one knows exactly when Vrnjačka Banja was discovered, historical records indicate that the mineral waters here were utilised as ar back as antiquity, with sections o ancient bathing pools and an old Roman ountainhead (Fons Romanus) uncovered here back in 1924. That same year saw archaeologists discover 500 Roman coins in the area, some dating back to the time beore Christ, but most rom the 2nd to the 6th centuries. Vrnjačka Banja’s modern name comes rom the village o Vrn jci, where the mineral springs were discovered. According to legend, the medicinal uses o Vrnjačka’s waters were known during the Ottoman period and some believe wounded Turkish cavalrymen came to Vrnjačka Banja or treatment, orcing locals to eed and attend to them during their recovery. In an attempt to avoid serving the Beys (Turkish leaders), some locals apparently tried to bury the springs. Vrnjačka Banja ourished during the time o Prince Mihailo. Since its rst ofcial season opening in 1867, Vrnjačka Banja became an elite summer holiday spot. The resort eatures a number o beautiul 19th and 20th century villas around the spring and perched atop surrounding hills. Today they are the pride o
Vrnjačka Banja. One o these stunning structures is the palace o King Regent Belimarković (1886). Built in the style o a Northern Italian countryside villa, the palace is now a cultural centre and gallery known as the Palace o Culture. The homes on Čajkino Hill are especially beautiul. Priest Jemije Popović built the small church at the very top o the hill in 1856. A great admirer o Vrnjačka Banja’s beauty, he opened the rst spring here in the very same year.
ACTIVITIES Vrnjačka Banja’s symbol is a sparrow sporting Serbian olk
shoes (opanci) and a Serbian national hat (šajkača). Stroll through the city and discover a statue o the sparrow in the very centre o Vrnjačka Banja. I you nd it, it is mandatory to take a photo o yoursel next to it. Everyone else does! Vrnjačka Banja eatures seven beautiul mineral water springs. Four are used or therapeutic purposes and two or bottled mineral water. Topla voda (warm water) is the oldest and most amous mineral water spring. According to archaeological nds, it was used in the Roman period between the 1st and 4th centuries. The 36.5°C water o this spring is equivalent to the temperature o the human body. Jezero is another warm water spring. I you are looking or a rereshing dip, head to Snežnik (17.5°C) and Slatina (14°C), Vrnjačka Banja’s cold water springs. Individuals come to Vrnjačka Banja seeking relie rom diabetes, bile illnesses and a range o gastrointestinal illnesses.
WE RECOMMEND: – Participating in Vrnjačka Banja’s Carnival estivities in July – A dip in the warm Topla Voda spring – Photographing yoursel with the sparrow sculpture in the centre o Vrnjačka Banja
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THE BRIDGE OF LOVE I not or the padlocks that cover its railings, you might not even notice the Bridge o Love in the centre o Vrnjačka Banja. Though it is one o 15 bridges in the town, this bridge with a sad story has become the symbol o the city. Locals tell the story o Relja and Nada, two young lovers who would meet here every night beore WWI. Once the war broke out, Relja, an ocer in the Royal Army, went of to war and never came back. He moved to Greece, married and orgot all about Nada. Heartbroken, Nada waited or him on the Bridge o Love until her dying day. To avoid reliving Nada’s bitter love story, local love struck girls started coming to the bridge every night to secretly “lock up” their boyriends’ hearts with padlocks. They did this with the hope o holding on to their love orever.
Apart rom its healing waters, Vrnjačka Banja oers a variety o cultural events and entertainment. The city is home to the Film Screenplay Festival, which previews the year’s domestic productions and is held every August. The estive Carnival takes place every July and eatures processions around the town, contests, sporting activities, mask shows and other entertainment. The event draws an estimated 200,000 revelers each year. Vrnjačka Cultural Ceremonies are held here every season. I you are the romantic type, head to Vrnjačka Banja on Valentine’s Day or the Longest Kiss contest, which is held on the Bridge o Love.
T O Vjčk Bj Vjčk 6/2, 36210 Vjčk Bj T/Fx: +381 36 611 106, 611 107 E-: c_v@p. www.vjckj.c. T I C Pd T: +381 36 621 900, 611 105
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TRSTENIK, ALEKSANDROVAC
Land of Wine TRSTENIK – SIGHTS Located in central Serbia some 205 kilometres rom Belgrade, Trstenik is accessible via the Pojate–Kraljevo motorway. The town lies at the intersection o the Morava roads that connect this region to Kruševac, Kraljevo, Vrnjačka Banja, Župa and Levča. Trstenik is also accessible via the Stalać–Kraljevo railroad through the Western Morava Valley. You can also y into the town’s small airport. Trstenik’s strength lies in its agricultural viability and, while not culturally notable, it lies in the beautiul, rich and bountiul lands by the Western Morava Valley. The Morava and the ertile land surrounding it, coupled with ideal climatic and ecological conditions, have combined to create the characteristics o this region’s rapid development. Beore WWII Trstenik was reputed as a city o cratsmen, tradesmen and coeehouse keepers. However, ollowing the war it experienced a ash period o economic development that coincided with the country’s overall industrialisation. The construction o the Holy Trinity Church lasted rom 1898 to 1900. The church, located in the centre o Trstenik, was the rst in Serbia built in the Neo-Moravian style. It bears noticeable resemblance to the church o King Milutin in Hilandar. Trstenik’s old town centre is one o the most well-preserved in Serbia. The House o Katić, the oldest preserved structure rom the mid-19th century, is considered one o the most beautiul houses o Moravian Serbia. The house eatures
a national ethno restaurant on the ground oor. The Trstenik Museum is renowned or its permanent ethnographic exhibit. The legacy o native artists in Trstenik is valuable or today’s local artists, who will orever bear witness to the easibility o successul collaborations between the economy and culture. Venture beyond Trstenik and discover two medieval monasteries built by two princesses and dedicated to the Most Holy Mother o God. The 19th-century Ljubostinja Monastery is renowned or its lie-sized rescoes o patrons Tsar Lazar, Princess Milica and their sons Stean and Vuk. Ljubostinja was the cultural centre o the region or centuries and the amous Ode to Tsar Lazar was composed here. Jemija, the rst Serbian poet, wove it into silk. The patron tombs o Princess Milica and Jemija are located inside the church. Jemija’s Days is a poetry event that takes place at the monastery each year in the second hal o June. The Veluće Monastery is the oldest preserved example o a Moravian School monastery. Once known as Srebrenica ater the river o the same name, the region is rich in silver ore deposits (srebro – silver). Even today you may come across prospectors in search o gold and silver along the banks o the Srebrenica.
T O Tk Mcpy Kj Mc , 37240 Tk T: +381 37 715 263 E-: 03@p. T O Akdvc Mcpy Jš Pvć 42, k 11, 37230 Akdvc T: +381 37 3554 404 E-: c@.. www...
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the expansive poljane (felds) – A visit to the House o Katić in Trstenik – A taste o grilled pork or lamb in the village o Veluće
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ACTIVITIES For those trekking around Trstenik, a visit to the vibrant villages o the area is a must! The village o Brezovica, perched along the ridges o Mount Goč, oers an array o recreational activities, while the area also recently became popular or hunting. The village o Veluće is renowned or its excellent roast pork and lamb. The village eatures a pristine mineral water spring yielding crystal clear water that meets global quality standards. Those wishing to see Trstenik by air should head to one o the area’s aero clubs. Visit one o the local tourism organisations or more inormation.
ALEKSANDROVAC – SIGHTS The Municipality o Aleksandrovac is also located in central Serbia. Its western part lies on the edges o the Dinaric mountain range, which includes mounts Goč, Željin and Kopaonik. Grapes and wine are at the centre o lie in this small town. Located in the wine region o Aleksandrovačka Župa, the area includes over 22 vineyard settlements that are largely devoid o human inhabitants known as poljane, or elds. These settlements are mostly clustered around streams or hilltops. The poljana in Pribojevac once belonged to the vineyards o Tsar Lazar. The tsar would drink wine rom Župa beore embarking on hunting trips. Though there are no historical documents to prove it, some believe Tsar Lazar was born near the poljana (eld) in Pribojevac. Some o Župa’s poljane, including Lukarevina, now enjoy state protection as unique ethnological entities.
ACTIVITIES Župa has been traditionally celebrating the harvesting o grapes as a national holiday or centuries and the Župa grape harvesting estivities still take place annually rom late September to early October. During this time a section o the town centre’s pedestrian zone is transormed into Wine Street and the central ountain, with its grape sculpture as the symbol o the birth and longevity o Župa, spouts ree wine to visitors during the estivities.
VENUS Every year Župa crowns a Wine Goddess as part o its grape harvest estivities. The idea or the contest is derived rom the Latin expression: where there is Bacchus, the god o wine, so there is Venus, the goddess o Love.
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BRUS, KOPAONIK
The Heart BRUS – SIGHTS The picturesque town o Brus, the seat o the municipality o the same name, is nestled in a mountain clearing along the River Graševača. The town is approximately 450 metres above sea level, 346 kilometres rom Belgrade and is accessible via Kruševac. Located in central Serbia, Brus Municipality borders the municipalities o Aleksandrovac, Raška, Blace, Kuršumlija, Leposavić and Kruševac. Part o the greater Rasina District, seated in Kruševac, Brus has a good network o regional and local roads and enjoys excellent connections with neighbouring municipalities and beyond. Brus was the seat o the Koznik District rom the late 19th century to 1953. It was here that Serbian Regent Aleksandar Karađorđević, Bulgaria’s King Ferdinand and Montenegro’s Serdar (General) JankoVukotić ormed the Balkan Alliance against the Ottoman Turks.
ACTIVITIES Brus is an air spa rich in warm and cold springs. Whether you are interested in hunting or just looking or a relaxing holiday, Brus is the ideal getaway. Most o the Brus locals make their living rom agriculture, agricultural production and cattle breeding. Pastures comprise just over hal o the total 60,000ha o the municipality’s land. A ew agricultural households also grow raspberries, blackberries, cranberries, plums, apples and grapes. Explore Brus and discover the ruins o the 3rd-century Metođe Shrine and the 15th-century Lepenica Monastery. Just 25 kilometres rom Brus is the village o Kriva Reka on the eastern ridges o mount Kopaonik, home to the beautiul St. Peter and Paul Church, dating back to the early 17th century. You will nd the ruins o Grabovnica – Gradište, a ascinating medieval city, in the hills o Gobelja. The ruined city, which is close to Brus, cuts across two hills connected by a natural beam and wall. The site oers spectacular views o Rasina and is a a-
T O B Mcpy Kj P I , 37220 B T: +381 37 825 185 E-: @p.k. www.zp.c.
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of Rasina vourite tourist destination. The ruins o Zlatari – Gradište are also worth visiting. The city is located on a hill at the intersection o the Gradiško and Suvajsko creeks. Judging by its remains, this medieval city was elliptically shaped and built o broken rock and mortar.
KOPAONIK – SIGHTS The eastern side o Mt. Kopaonik (2017m), including its highest peak, Pančićev Vrh, represents the heart o Brus municipality. Though a sizeable mountain, it is easily accessible via roads once used to mine ore in its surrounding valleys. Kopaonik has a rich mining heritage. Raška King Stean Uroš I brought hired hands, known as Sasi, here to extract ore. Mining settlements had their own coin urnaces and mints. Mining in Kopaonik ourished in the 14th and 15th centuries, during the period o despotism, and the area developed a healthy trade relationship with the then Republic o Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik caravans travelling to Soa and Constantinople used ancient Roman roads to cross Kopaonik and Brus. Remains rom the Roman and medieval period are still evident here today. As the name Kulina (kula – tower) suggests, this was the site o an ancient ortress that is no longer visible. Historians believe these ortresses were used to protect Kopaonik’s mines during the Roman period and again during the Middle Ages.
ACTIVITIES Located between Brus and Pančićev Vrh, the agricultural village o Brzeće is a well-established tourism spot. Along with several other villages in the oothills o Kopaonik, Brzeće oers excellent hospitality and splendid cuisine. You can sample the delectable specialities o the region at one o many establishments across Kopaonik. Visit during late August to experience the traditional Golden Hands o Brus estivities, which see the village women compete or the Golden Hands title. The event takes place o the Main Street in Brus.
NETTLE CUTLETS Nettle cutlets are a culinary speciality o the villages o Kopaonik utilising this herbaceous perennial European owering plant. To prepare this delectable dish yoursel, boil 300 grams o nettles, chop into small pieces and add a thinly chopped leek, two to three cloves o garlic, two eggs, a little boiled rice, two spoons o wheat our, salt, pepper and one bunch o thinly chopped parsley. Mix all the ingredients together, shape into cutlets and ry in oil. Delicious!
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WE RECOMMEND: – A taste o the delicious cranberries o Brus – A visit to the ruins o the Metođe Shrine – A beautiul handicrat item ashioned by the women o the villages o the Kopaonik oothills
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KRUŠEVAC
The Exquisite Beauty SIGHTS Kruševac is located 194 kilometres rom Belgrade and is accessible via the Belgrade–Niš Highway, just 23 kilometres rom the Pojate exit. The municipality borders Aleksinac and Merošina to the east, Blace, Prokuplje, Brus and Aleksandrovac to the south, Trstenik to the west and Varvarin, Ćićevac and Ražanj to the north. Kruševac, today the seat o the Rasina District, has a long and rich history. Its central location has made it a popular Balkan stopover since the Middle Ages. According to legend, the town’s name originates either rom kruška (pear) or the enormous Moravian boulder, krušac, used in the construction o the city’s ortress. The Turks called it Aladža Hisar (colourul town). Kruševac is well known or its Archaeological Park, which comprises Tsar Lazar’s medieval city walls, the Lazarica Church and the National Museum. Tsar Lazar built the town in 1371 as a capital city and military ortress. The building o the beautiul Lazarica Church signalled the beginning o the Moravian School o Masonry. Its vibrant açade eatures alternating layers o stone and brick, bioras (dual-arched windows), relie decorations, rosettes and a redand-white checked pattern. Unortunately, the interior walls o Lazarica are completely bare, with its rescoes having long since disappeared. The church is considered a masterpiece o Serbian ecclesiastical architecture. The nearby Branič-kula (Deensive Tower) is partially destroyed, but nonetheless an impressive 15-metre
structure. Kruševac’s National Museum is considered one o Serbia’s most beautiul buildings. Featuring grand collections that present the history o the town and its surroundings, the museum’s most valuable collection piece is the vestment o Tsar Lazar. The town centre, which dates back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, is located at the heart o the medieval town. The monument to Kosovo’s heroes dominates the town centre and is the work o sculptor Đorđe Jovanović. The building o the present day town hall eatures magnicent mosaics by academic Mladen Srbinović that depict medieval Moravian Serbia. The southern ridges o Mt. Goč are home to the Veluće Monastery, just 22 kilometres rom Kruševac. The monastery was ounded by two noble brothers, who are depicted in the paintings that adorn the walls o the church.
ACTIVITIES Kruševac hosts several estive events every summer. They include the Vidovdan Ceremonies, which take place at the end o June, and the Cultural Summer estivities, which last throughout the summer. Kruševac has a long tradition o theatrical arts and its National Theatre is one o the most respected in the country. Representatives rom theatres across the entire region gather here during the city’s traditional Theatre Days event. This region’s locals have a reputation or being quite cheerul and they also show a great sense o humour. I you are looking or a un experience, head to the Golden Helmet, Kruševac’s annual international estival o humour
WE RECOMMEND: – A walk through the beautiul Lazarica Church – Participating in Kruševac’s Vidovdan Ceremonies at the end o June – An outing to Mount Jastrebac
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of Lazarica
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and satire. Ćićevac lies approximately 10 kilometres rom Kruševac. A ormer marsh area covered with ponds, swamps and backwaters, Ćićevac is also known or the Great Vortex, which was connected to the River Morava by a network o underground channels. Locals called it The Crazy and no one dared bathe in it, believing it to be bottomless. One o the most expansive late Middle Age ortresses lies in Ćićevac municipality close to Stalać. The ortress was built in the 1370s to protect Kruševac, then Serbia’s capital city. Explore urther and discover Varvarin, site o one o the most glorious victories (1810) o the First Serbian Uprising. Even though they were thrice outnumbered, the united Serbian and Russian armies denitively deeated the Turkish orces here. The battle was preceded by a duel, during which megdandžija (combatant) Jova Kursula killed Omer-Aga, a amous Turkish military leader.
ROSETTES Built in the late 1370s, the Naupare Monastery is located 15 kilometres south o Kruševac. Two remarkable rosettes on the monastery’s western side stand out among those on its richly decorated walls. Like other noble churches in the region, Naupare replicates the structure o Kruševac’s Lazarica Church.
T O Kšvc Mjk Jvć 3, 37000 Kšvc T: +381 37 440 332, 445 180 E-: zkvc@p.k. www.zkvc.c
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JAGODINA, ĆUPRIJA
A Resting Place amid with courtyards or caravans) and two mosques.” Jagodina played an important role during both Serbian Uprisings and liberation rom the Turks. In the mid-19th century the rst glass actory was established here and soon ater a brewery began to operate. Jagodina is now a modern city o the Pomoravlje District (the River Morava Valley area). The city’s town centre eatures a number o beautiul historical buildings. The Native Museum o Jagodina is now located in what used to be the old school house. The town centre eatures the 1899 St. Peter and Paul Church, designed by Svetozar Ivačković. The structure is well proportioned, has a developed crossin-square base, ve domes and a separate bell tower. Hajduk Veljko’s residence is located nearby. This historical structure is named ater the hero o First Serbian Uprising, who lived here or a period.
ACTIVITIES The 14th-century Jošanica Monastery is nestled in the hills o Crni Vrh (Black Peak) Mountain, 10 kilometres rom Jagodina. The monas-
NAÏVE ART WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Native Museum o Jagodina – A stroll down Tsar Lazar Street in Ćuprija – Taking a photo in the courtyard o Ravanica Monastery
JAGODINA – SIGHTS Jagodina lies 135 kilometres rom Belgrade and is accessible via the highway leading to Niš. The rst historical document citing Jagodina dates back to the 14th century. Records indicate that Jagodina was a developed town with a state administration. The Turks established a settlement here during the 15th and 16th centuries. Travel memoirs describe it as “a beautiul town with our caravanserais (Turkish inns
Since 1960 Jagodina has been home to the Museum o naïve art. Known as the Gallery o Sel-Taught Painters, it is Serbia’s rst naïve art establishment. The museum ocuses on the systematic gathering, preservation and study o naïve artworks. Jagodina was chosen as the site o the museum because the original collection mostly eatures the works o Janko Brašić, a peasant artist rom the nearby town o Oparice. Located in the very centre o the city, the museum is housed in a beautiul 1929 villa. Today it exhibits over 2,500 pieces by naïve artists, making it one o the largest museums o its kind in the world. Approximately 200 o the most representative naïve artworks were chosen or the museum’s permanent exhibit. tery, ounded by Tsar Lazar, eatures the Moravian style St. Nicholas Church. I you are visiting the area, a stop here is a must!
ĆUPRIJA – SIGHTS Just 13 kilometres rom Jagodina, the town o Ćuprija lies at the conuence o the rivers Ravanica and Great (Velika) Morava. This typical Moravian town is 145 kilometres rom Belgrade and has a population o 22,000. Its main street is named ater Tsar Lazar.
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st Saintly Relics ACTIVITIES Ćuprija is best known or the magnicent Ravanica Monastery. Just 15 kilometres rom the town centre via Highway E-75, Ravanica was ounded by Tsar Lazar, who is buried here. During the great migration o the Serbs across the Sava and Danube rivers, his remains were taken to St. Andrews Church in Hungary and then to Vrdnik Monastery in Fruška Gora. During WWII they were transported to Belgrade’s Saborna crkva (St. Michael the Archangel Cathedral), beore nally being returned to Ravanica in 1989. This magnicent structure, the construction o which began in 1375, eatures a surrounding wall marked by seven towers. The Ottoman Turks repeatedly destroyed Ravanica in 1389, 1436 and 1438, beore it was completely abandoned in 1690 until Monks later returned. Ravanica’s architecture exhibits the oundations o the Moravian School o Serbian medieval masonry. Its design combines elements o the temples built by previous Serbian rulers, with a cross-in-square church base such as those used traditionally in the Mount Athos monasteries’ triconchal bases. With its multiple layers o stone and brick, a large rosette above the western portal and checkered patterns under the domes, the church’s exterior exemplies the Byzantium style. Ravanica’s window rames are richly decorated with shallow relies, while the church’s most exquisite rescoes are the Mother o God with Christ in the altar apse and the Miracles o Christ. The paintings in the narthex date rom the 18th and 19th centuries. The St. Transguration Monastery is located near the River Crnica, just 12 kilometres rom Ravanica. The monastery was named ater its patron, Father Sisoje, a respected spiritual leader. His portrait is partially preserved in a resco depicting him holding a model o the church. The monastery, typical o the Moravian School, once eatured a plethora o rescoes that remain only partially preserved today. The best-preserved rescoes resemble those at Ravanica, which are considered the most beautiul paintings o Moravian Serbia. A visit to Ravanica Monastery will transport you back in time!
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T O Jd Sv Ivvć 2, 35000 Jd T: +381 35 252 983, 282 199 E-: jd@.c www.jd.k. T O Ćpj Mcpy 13. k 7, 35230 Ćpj T: +381 35 8470 248 E-: z@cpj.c www.cpj.c
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PARAĆIN, DESPOTOVAC
Despot Stefan Lazarević’s PARAĆIN – SIGHTS Paraćin is located 160 kilometres rom Belgrade via Highway E-75 towards Niš. The River Crnica passes through the town and ows into the Great Morava three kilometres downstream. The Municipality o Paraćin is part o the rich and ertile Pomoravlje District (River Morava Valley area), which descends rom the Kučaj Mountains in the east towards the Great Morava in the west. The Crnica and Grza rivers transverse this beautiul valley. Historical records indicate the town was probably ounded in the 14th century. Paraćin experienced widespread industrial growth in the second hal o the 19th century, when a number o textile, cement and glass actories opened.
ACTIVITIES The 14th century St. Petka Monastery is located on the right bank o the River Grza at the opening o the Čestobrodica Canyon. The domes above the naos (main body) and the narthex (entrance) resemble the dome o the Ljubostinja Church. The Grza region near Paraćin attracts the most visitors
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the spectacular Resava Cave – A visit to Manasija Monastery – A visit to the Ivkov Ponor (recess)
and you will nd a popular excursion site 17 kilometres along the road rom Paraćin to Zaječar. Another popular getaway destination is the beautiul village o Krivi Vir, which lies 20 kilometres rom Paraćin.
DESPOTOVAC – SIGHTS Despotovac is a small mining town 130 kilometres south o Belgrade. The town’s popular sites include the Manasija Monastery, Despotovačka Banja spa, the Mining Museum in the Senj Mine and the River Resava, which eatures several beautiul wateralls. The Manasija Monastery is one o the key ecclesiastical and cultural centres o Moravian Serbia. The monastery ’s Holy Trinity Church was built as a mausoleum or Despot Stean Lazarević, one o Serbia’s most prominent rulers and the son o Tsar Lazar. Manasija’s exterior was completed in the 18th century. The complex has endured destructions o several wars and all that remains o the old narthex is the beautiul mosaic oor, eaturing white, green-blue and red marble. The oor is similar to the lavish oors o Milutin’s Church at Hilandar. The wall eatures a depiction o Lazarević in his splendid vestments receiving a spear and sword rom winged angels. It was here that Lazarević created the Resava School, Serbia’s most renowned book transcription institute. Manasija’s rescoes are among the most magnicent creations o medieval Serbia.
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Majestic Monastery
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ACTIVITIES Towering at 1339 metres, Mount Beljanica separates Resava rom Homolje. The karst topography here created a series o round karst valleys, pits, ravines and caves. The central plateau is bare, but the hills are covered with beech orests, oak orests and even rainorests in certain places. I you decide to hike in this area you will discover mushrooms, particularly the porcini variety, growing at the bases o large tree trunks. Though the area is strewn with numerous shepherd cottages, no permanent settlements exist. The entrance to the renowned Resava Cave is located in the depths o the Beljanica Mountain, approximately 10 kilometres east o Manasija. This opening was not discovered until 1962, due to the dense vegetation surrounding this natural wonder. The cave has three levels and covers a total length o 2,380 metres. The top two levels are open to visitors and eature an 800-metre long pathway. The lowest level eatures an underground river. The cave maintains a constant temperature o 14°C. Far below the peaks o Mount Sokolica, the Veliko Vrelo River ows across a steep cli to create a spectacular 200-metre waterall. The plunging waters have created a large recess in the karst grounds over time, resulting in the largest single waterall in Serbia. At 156 m in length, Ivkov ponor is Serbia’s largest recess. Come and see this spectacular natural beauty or yoursel! This region is a popular hunting spot. The Južni Kučaj hunting grounds stretch across the territories o Despotovac and Paraćin and hunters are allowed to shoot European deer, doe, wild boar and rabbit. The ox, lynx, otter, wild pigeon, grey alcon, imperial eagle and golden eagle, however, are all permanently protected species. The grounds eature our comortable lodges available or overnight accommodation.
THE VITANOVACA RESERVE The mighty River Resava originates in the Kučaj Mountains, some 1100 metres above sea level, and ends 65 kilometres downstream as it reaches the Great Morava. The Vitanovača Reserve, a natural rainorest located near the upper sections o the Resava, comprises 38 hectares and abounds with majestic beech trees.
T O Pć Mcpy Kj P I 13, 35250 Pć T: +381 35 565 814 E-: zpc@p.k. www.pcz.c T O Dpvc Mcpy Ck 3, 35213 Dpvc T: +381 35 613 672 E-: d@p.k. www.v-.
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SMEDEREVO, SMEDEREVSKA PALANKA, VELIKA PLANA
The Harvest SMEDEREVO – SIGHTS Smederevo lies on the River Danube 46 kilometres rom Belgrade via Grocka. In Serbian history the conquest o Smederevo marked the beginning o three and a hal centuries o Ottoman rule over Serbia. The monumental Smederevo Fortress, the largest o medieval Serbia, dominates the city’s landscape. At one time Smederevo’s bastion walls spanned 500 m along the Danube, 400 metres along the Jezav, and 502 m on its inland side. Twenty-ve massive towers marked its walls. Six were located in the Small Town, with the other 19 located in the Main City. The oundations o a church were uncovered here in the early 1980s. Built between 1851 and 1855, Smederevo’s St. George Church was the rst o several erected in Serbia by Andrej Damjanov, a mason rom Veles. Smederevo’s city commissioners requested that the temple and all prominent buildings in the city be built in the same style as Manasija. Damjanov, thus, constructed a ve-domed church, a combination o a basilica structure and a church plan with a cross-in-square base. The tall, monumental baroque classical bell tower rises high above the narthex. This church is o great signicance to Smederevo, marking the beginning o the city’s urbanisation. Stroll through Smederevo city centre and discover the District Courthouse, which was built between 1886 and 1888 according to a design o Aleksandar Bugarski. Its architecture is a combination o the 19th century Academism and Neo-Renaissance styles. You will also nd Pera Popović’s 1919 Gymnasium school building and 1920s Municipal Hall on the main square. Above its main entrance, the Municipal Hall’s building crown roo eatures our statues depicting Justice, Order, Science and Culture.
ACTIVITIES Modern Smederevo is the seat o the Danube Valley region and
THE SMEDEREVO FORTRESS Smederevo’s trademark is its massive ortress. Spanning 11 acres o land, the ortress was erected as the new Serbian capital at the conuence o the Jezava and Danube rivers during the time o Đurađ Branković. The Residence, a ortied court known as the Small Town, was completed just two years ater construction began in 1428. The terrain also determined the triangular shape o the city, which was built to resemble Constantinople. The brother o Despotess Irina led the construction o the ortress and the so-called Main City was completed in 1439. It ell under Turkish rule in 1459, the year that marked end o the medieval Serbian state and the beginning o several centuries o Turkish occupation.
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of Life the town is well known beyond Serbia’s borders or its wine tradition. Roman emperor Prob brought the grapes that now comprise the vineyards along the Danube in the 3rd century. The Smederevo Autumn estival honours the tradition o wine and grape harvesting every year in late September. Nušić’s Days, a contest or comedy theatre troupes, is held in Smederevo every April. The event honours amous comedian Branislav Nušić, who spent part o his lie in Smederevo. I you are in Smederevo make certain to visit the Plavinac Vineyards, the Obrenović Country House and the Zlatni Breg (Golden Hill) Villa.
SMEDEREVSKA PALANKA – SIGHTS Once known as Bela Crkva, Smederevska Palanka lies 80 kilometres rom Belgrade and 30 kilometres rom Smederevo. This town had many names throughout its history, including Bink Palanka, Jeni Palanka, Velika Palanka and Hasan-pašina Palanka, among others. The municipality is located at the conuence o the Kubršnica and Jasenica rivers and is home to Goša industries, which manuactures wagons, bridges and other types o steel structures. The Holy Transguration Church was built in Palanka between 1865 and 1890. Famous Serbian Romanticist painter Steva Todorović and his colleagues painted the murals and iconostasis o this beautiul temple. Located just 15 m rom the church, the old stone bridge is a vestige o the old Constantinople thoroughare, which once passed through this region. The oldest urban remnant o the city is the Stara Čaršija (Old Bazaar) on Karađorđeva Street, along the stretch rom the church to the stone bridge. The charming Church o St. Petka is located on Kralja Petra (King Petar) Street near the town centre.
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T O Sdv Odk 1, 11300 Sdv T: +381 26 222 952, 614 726 E-: z@p.k. www.d.c, www.vdjv.c T I C Sdv Kj P I . 8 T: +381 26 615 666 E-: cd@p.k. T O Sdvk Pk Mcpy Pv Spk k 2/6, 11420 Sdvk Pk T: +381 26 322 982 E-: @v., zpk@p.k. T d Sp C Vk P Nk Pšć , 11320 Vk P T: +381 26 521 131, 514 538, Fx: +381 26 521 363 E-: cvp@p.k. www.vkp..
VELIKI PLANA – SIGHTS Velika Plana was once considered the largest village along Belgrade–Niš Highway. When in Velika Plana there are two Serbian heritage sites you must see: the Koporin Monastery and the log cabin style Pokajnica Church.
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Smederevska Palanka is rich in thermal and mineral water springs, while locals and visitors alike head to the nearby Kudreč Lake to cool o during the hot summer months.
The Koporin Monastery in the village o Koporin is located just six kilometres southwest o Velika Plana. The monastery’s church honours St. Stean and is closely linked to Despot Stean Lazarević, whose despotic insignia is eatured on the western wall o the structure. A log cabin style church with the symbolic name Pokajnica (pokajati – to repent) is also located near Velika Plana. This quaint church has a unique history, with the orest surrounding the church marking the very place where Vujica Vuličević murdered his godather Karađorđe in 1817. To demonstrate his repentance, Vuličević built the church on the exact spot where he sat down to rest ater removing the clothes, weapons and emblems o honour belonging to Karađorđe. Wooden churches are a specic expression o indebtedness to Serbia’s village areas. They are built o quality oak and can be easily disassembled and moved to another location.
WE RECOMMEND: – Participating in Smederevo’s grape harvest – An outing at Jugovo – A visit to Pokajnica
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POŽAREVAC, KOSTOLAC, MALO CRNIĆE, PETROVAC
Remnants of the POŽAREVAC – SIGHTS Požarevac is located 80 kilometres rom Belgrade and lies at the intersection o roads leading to Homolje and Đerdap. The city, rst mentioned in Tsar Lazar’s charter by its original name, Puporače, is today the centre o the Braničevo District and borders Veliko Gradište to the east, Malo Crniće and Žabari to the south, Smederevo to the west and the municipalities o Kovin and Bela Crkva just over the Danube to the north. Požarevac is accessible by train, via the Belgrade–Bor–Zaječar railway, and by air, via the small Ljubiša Veličković Airport in nearby Kostolac. The 1889 Preecture and Court House Building typiy the Academism style. The 1819 Cathedral Church in the town centre is a single-nave neoclassical structure. Nikola Marković painted the iconostasis in 1870. The National Museum, established in 1895, houses an impressive archaeological collection which eatures exhibits rom the nearby ancient city o Viminacium. The gallery o Milena Pavlović-Barili exhibits the artist’s lie works, which include 600 paintings, drawings and aquarelles. The gallery is housed in Pavlović-Barili’s ormer home and birthplace. The Požarevac Theatre is best known as being the venue or the 1842 Balkan premiere o Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
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WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Milena Pavlović-Barili Museum – Purchasing an item o replica Roman jewellery in Viminacium – A visit to the Ljubičevo Ergela (Horse Farm)
Ethno-park Tulba is one o Serbia’s many ethno-parks. Its setup resembles an 1880s-style settlement and consists o a homestead, a winched well, a log cabin and several homes. Prince Miloš Obrenović built several holiday homes here or himsel and his wie. Serbia’s rst ergela (horse arm) was ounded here in 1853 and named Ljubičevo, in honour o Miloš’s wie Ljubica. The Ljubičevo Equestrian Games and estivities are held here every year during the rst weekend in September. This popular competition consists o ve events: dagger jousting, gallop races and spear, arrow and spiked mace throwing. There are plentiul water sources surrounding Požarevac, oering ideal conditions or the urther development o tourism. This region is home to the Plugovo Regional Nature Park and a range o scenic nature spots in Dragovac, Ljubičevo, Krivaja, Rastova Kosa and Rastovača.
KOSTOLAC – SIGHTS The town o Kostolac, situated near the conuence o the River Mlava into the Danube just 11 kilometres north o Požarevac, eatures the ruins o the ancient Roman city o Viminacium. This Roman ortication, once the capital o the province o Moesia, was originally built as an encampment or the 7th Roman Legion. Viminacium experienced rapid development as a result o its strategic geographical location and Emperor Hadrian granted the settlement city status during his rule. In 239AD it became a colony and was granted the rights to mint its own coins. Viminacium was also the seat o the Emperor’s regent and the harbour o the Danube Fleet. Archaeological digs have uncovered 14,000 graves in the ancient cemetery o this Roman metropolis. Viminacium
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Roman Empire is also home to several memorial structures, sarcophagi, tombs adorned with rescoes and unique gold and silver jewellery. Archaeologists recently discovered two aqueducts that once provided water across nine kilometres to over 30,000 residents o the ancient city. Viminacium is the only ormer imperial Roman city in present day Serbia that did not eventually become a larger modern settlement. Additional historical sites close to Viminacium include Margum, a prehistoric settlement and Roman ornication, the Bronze Age Rukumija and the prehistoric and Bronze Age Malinac. The Bronze Age Velika majka (Goddess Mother) statue, also known as the Idol o Kličevac, was uncovered in nearby Kličevac. It is known across the world as a unique Bronze Age relic. Iba is internationally recognised as a major point in the ight path o migrating birds. Located in the vicinity o Kostolac (Žilova river islet, Stojkova river islet), this is a Ramsar wetland region.
MALO CRNIĆE – SIGHTS The small town o Malo Crniće lies 12 kilometres rom Požarevac and is known or its gorgeous orested areas crisscrossed by a network o waterways. Malo Crniće is also known or its Amateurs-o-Drama Festival, which takes place during May and the rst hal o June.
PETROVAC – SIGHTS Nestled in the Mlava River Valley, Petrovac on the Mlava lies just 36 kilometres rom Požarevac. A visit to two o Serbia’s most signicant medieval monuments is a must i you are in the area! Just 13 kilometres rom Petrovac you will nd a beautiul monastery that includes the Church o the Ascension o the Mother o God, two konak residences, the remains o a cave chapel and the walls o an old ortication. According to popular belie, King Milutin built this monastery in 1257.
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T O Pžvc Vjk Dšvć 25, 12000 Pžvc T: +381 12 542 277 E-: pzvc@p.k., pzvc@.c www.pzvc. T I C Pžvc Dk 1, 12000 Pžvc T: +381 12 544 155, 221 941, 542 277 E-: pc@p.k., pzvc@.c T O M Cć Mcpy Uc Gv 80, 12311 M Cć T: +381 12 280 164 E-: ck@cc., c@ c. www.c. T O Pvc Mv Mcpy Spkh vd 165, 12300 Pvc T: +381 12 326 343 E-: pvcv@.c www.pvcv. The medieval town o Ždrelo, located 14 kilometres rom Petrovac-on-Mlava, eatures tombstones adorned with incredible 14th and 15th century epigraphs.
STIG The city o Stig has its own miniature Holy Mountain (Sveta Gora – Mt. Athos in Greece). The legend and olksong, God Settles all His Debts, is woven into the history o this small settlement and both tell the story o a woman who wanted to cause discord between brothers and their sister. The sister was killed and the woman incriminated her sister-in-law in this terrible crime. She then orced her husband to take merciless revenge on his own sister by killing her. Several pilgrimage sites were established on the site where the ill-ated girls’ body parts were scattered. There are several monasteries in the area that bear their names. They include Zaova (zaova – sister-in-law), Sestroljin in Požarevac (sestra – sister), Rukumija in Kučevo (ruka – hand, because the sister’s hands were allegedly dismembered by horses), and Bradača (brada – chin). The Kusan Spring (kušanje – trial) and Panarija Spring in Petrovac-on-Mlava were also named ater this legend. Panarija Spring, possibly named ater the Panarion, an early-Christian treatise on heresy that ofers remedies or the poison o heresy, has achieved cult status. Bradača, in the nearby village o Kula, and Zaova are traditionally connected to the song and estate-owners (Vlastela) Radić, Pavle and Radul. Pilgrims come to Bradače to cure inertility. In Smoljinac you will nd St. Petka Monastery, which stands amidst glorious poplar trees and a beautiul lake.
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KUČEVO, ŽAGUBICA
Land Dressed in KUČEVO – SIGHTS Kučevo is located in northeastern Serbia 42 kilometres rom Požarevac and 130 kilometres rom Belgrade. Many believe Kučevo, once known as Guduscum, was an ancient Roman settlement and the discovery o gold coins eaturing Emperor Hadrian conrm the presence o the Roman Empire in Kučevo in 128 BC. Hadrian mined gold, silver and steel in the Roman city o Guduscum, where the Kučajska and Pek rivers meet. All that remains o ancient Guduscum today is a small ortied area. Visitors to Kučevo will immediately be drawn to the area’s pristine nature, rich ethnological and archaeological heritage and riendly people.
ACTIVITIES Explore the area around Kučevo and you will quickly discover its incredible caves. I you are interested in caves, a visit to the beautiul and majestic Ceremošnja Cave, which lies 13 kilometres rom Kučevo, is a must. It is a lso accessible via the villages o Kučajne and Bukovske. The cave was created by the 775-metre-long Strugarski Creek, which runs through it. The cave eatures a 431-metre-long visitors’ pathway. The cave’s largest opening, Arena, is one o the most beautiul in Serbia. The 20-metre-high ceiling is dome-shaped and eatures beautiul stalactites. Explore the cave urther and discover the Dveri (doorway) and a small
T O Kčv Mcpy Sv Sv 114, 12240 Kčv T: +381 12 850 666 E-: kcv@p., kcv@.c www.kcv. T O Žc Mcpy Mš T 25, 12320 Žc T: +381 12 7643 657 E-: zc@.c www.zc.
waterall o the Strugarski Creek leading to the cave’s exit, approximately 100 m rom the entrance. Kučevo has plenty more caves, including Ravništarka and the Dubočka Cave, which is an ideal destination or those interested in speleological and adventure tourism. Kučevo is well known or its Homoljski motivi handicrat estival, which takes place every year at the end o May and beginning o June. This estive event, eaturing gold handicrats rom eastern Serbia, was rst held in 1968 and has signicantly contributed to the preservation o the authentic song, dance and customs o this region. It has also played a role in the appreciation o traditional ood, handicrats and ancient skills, including gold rinsing on the River Pek. Kučevo has been a mining region or centuries. Visit the area and you will discover its three gold mines: Blagojev Kamen (Blagoje’s Stone), Santa Barbara and Grabova River. Gold was also ound near the River Pek several decades ago. According to historical records, King Aleksandar Karađorđević was able to extract three tonnes o gold rom the Neresnica area near the River Pek using primitive technology. The more traditional method or nding gold was rinsing: a method which has not changed over time. The simplest approach was to drop a sheep’s eece to the bottom o the river and wait or the gold to collect in it. This method was eective because gold is lighter than sand. The last step was to shake the
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Gold
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GOLD RINSING The River Pek in Kučevo is well known in the region or its gold supply. Though there is some evidence indicating that gold still exists here, locals are more dedicated to agriculture than looking or gold. In the 19th century travel writer Sigmund August Heder described this apparent nonchalance in one o his travel memoirs. He noted that villagers would rinse gold rom the River Pek in passing and only as an addition to their traditional jobs. They would then sell the gold in Čuvatima in Vidin. Though it is a sort o paradox that gold rinsing in Kučevo no longer exists, locals believe that it somehow brings bad luck to the rinser. According to legend, Emperor Trajan broke through the Đerdap Gorge in his quest to nd gold in the River Pek and drained the ancient Pannonian Sea.
WE RECOMMEND: – извор реке Млаве – истражити пећину Церемошњу – купити земљани суд у Жагубици eece and collect the gold. Just 15 kilometres rom Kučevo you will discover the 3rd century Kraku lu Jordan archaeological site and metallurgical complex. This ascinating spot, located in the village o Brodica in the direction o Majdankep, is a orested area rich in small and large bird species.
ŽAGUBICA – SIGHTS Žagubica is 120 kilometres rom Belgrade. The municipality stretches across the upper part o the Mlava River Valley and its tributaries. The area comprises two sections: oothills and a mountain range. The middle portion is composed o the Žagubička basin, who’s lower part is at an altitude o 3 00 metres in average. The highest part o the valley is on the west, north and northeast part. The lower Gornjačke (825 m) and Homolje Mountains (940 m) orm the valley’s natural boundaries. Žagubica is sparsely populated, with inhabitants spread across twenty villages, o which Žagubica is the largest. The Gornjak Monastery lies 26 kilometres rom Žagubica overlooking a steep cli to the north. Tsar Lazar built the monastery with the help o monk Gregory, who arrived in this region rom araway Mount Sinai (1378–1381). The monastery eatures beautiul rescoes painted in 1847 and the remains o St. Gregory Sianit are located in the small chapel above the church. There are also a ew partially preserved rescoes rom the 14th century in the church’s grotto.
ACTIVITIES Visit the area and you will notice its beautiul clay pots, which are richly decorated with gures or ower motis. These beautiul pots are characteristic o the region. The area also boasts colourully painted distas and other wooden objects. Purchase one to remind you o your visit!
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VELIKO GRADIŠTE, GOLUBAC
Where the Danube VELIKO GRADIŠTE – SIGHTS Veliko Gradište lies on the shores o the Danube 114 kilome tres rom Belgrade. This town is an ideal por t o call or ships heading rom the Black Sea to Central Europe and it is here that the River Pek meets the Danube. Thanks to its strategic position on the Danube, Veliko Gradište served as an important export station in the 19th century. The 1856 St. Archangel Gabriel Church, which overlooks the Danube, is one o the city’s key attractions. Built in 1879, Veliko Gradište High School is next to the church, while a stroll to the other side o the church will reveal the beautiul City Hall. The park next to this building eatures several monuments commemorating the victims o WWI and WWII. This part o town is called Gradištanska čaršija (Gradište bazaar). Stop to look at the Danube in Gradište and appreciate just how expansive it is. At a width o nearly two kilometres, it is no wonder this stretch o the river is sometimes called the Danube Sea.
ACTIVITIES Explore beyond Veliko Gradište and you will discover the beautiul Silver Lake (Srebrno jezero). Located just three kilometres rom Veliko Gradište, the lake attracts locals and visitors alike. Though it was once quite insignicant in size, today it is 14 kilometres in length, 100-300 metres wide and 8-9 metres deep. Ostrvo (island) is a beautiul river islet located between the Danube and Silver Lake. The Beli bagrem (White Acacia) recreation zone near the Danube extends south to the road leading to Požarevac. The whole area abounds with beautiul acacia orests, meadows, agricultural lands and a network o channels. I you are a nature enthusiast, head to Jaz. Located just a ew kilometres upstream rom the conuence o the Pek and
RAM Ram is a medieval ortress located one kilometre rom the village o Ram and approximately 15 kilometres rom Veliko Gradište. Bayezid II built Ram in 1483, ollowing completion o the nearby town o Kuliča. Today the ortress is a symbol o Serbia’s rich culture and history. The Ram ortress and archaeological site draw approximately 5,000 visitors per year, who come to admire its architecture and marvel at the view o Vojvodina rom this spot on the Danube. the Danube, it is a perect place to swim, eaturing a small bay ormed when the local hydroelectric power plant was built. The bay quickly became a natural habitat or a number o bird species, particularly migratory birds resting at the river isle in Gradište, near the village o Ram. In autumn these migratory birds y in rom North and Northeast Europe and Northern and Western Asia, all congregating here by the end o January. An international expedition carried out a ew years ago identied approximately 136,000 examples o 25 species o birds here. I you would like to see this phenomenon or yoursel, rent a boat through one o the local hunting associations. I you are interested in hunting, head to the 18,000 hectare Ramski rit (Ram Fen) hunting grounds. The area oers plenty o awn, wild boar, rabbit, pheasant, partridge and even predators like oxes and badgers. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic Eurovelo 6 cycle route that passes through Golubac, Gradište, Zatonje and Ram. There are also plans to establish a erry system, which would transport cyclists across the Danube rom Ram to Vojvodina. The Nimnik Monastery, also known as the Marian Monastery, is located two kilometres rom the village o Kurjače. It
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Resembles a Sea was built to commemorate the transport o St. Father Nikolaj’s remains. The old monastery, which dates back to the 14th century, was the metochion o the old Ravanica Monastery. Historians believe that Tsar Lazar’s Duke Bogoslav was its patron. Though destroyed during the Ottoman occupation, it was later rebuilt by Prince Miloš and is today a women’s monastery.
GOLUBAC – SIGHTS Though located on the Danube, Golubac looks more like a maritime town. It is no wonder! The Danube is almost six kilometres wide here. Golubac is 130 kilometres rom Belgrade on the Belgrade–Kladovo Highway. Perched on the clis o the Danube, the 14th century Golubac ortress is one o the key landmarks in this region. Stean Lazarević built the ortress at this precise spot so he could control river navigation. According to historical records, Duke Jeremija sold the ortress to the Turks or a sum o 12,000 ducats. This impressive structure has nine towers, the largest o which is also the tallest. The ortress is under state protection as a symbol o Serbia’s cultural heritage.
ACTIVITIES Explore beyond the ortress and discover the Đerdap National Park and the Golubački Grad natural resort. The area is rich in
WE RECOMMEND: – A stroll through the quaint Gradište Čaršija section o Veliko Gradište – Sailing on the Danube near the village o Zatonje – Sampling some wonderul perch and other river delicacies in Golubac
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spectacular ora, including acacia, hornbeam, mountain ash, honey oak and beech. Wildlie here is also well diversied. Every January the city o Golubac organises a hunt or badgers in the area’s sandy terrain, while the hunter’s encounter with the wol event is held every February. In May the city celebrates the Days o the Perch at Ram ortress. Dog shows and an ethno estival take place at the end o July. The ethno estival includes the Danube Fair: Heritage o Serbia exposition, the Golubački kotlić (Golubac pot) and Etno sabor (Ethno convention) events. There is also an annual kayaking regatta and sailing championship. The Golubac convention is held on the day o the Ascension o the Most Holy Mother o God. Every September Golubac stages horseracing competitions starting in Golubac and ending at the Tuman Monastery. There is also a beach volleyball championship. Overall, Golubac oers a range o un and activities yearround. Come and see or yoursel!
T O Vk Gdš Mcpy Vjvd Pk 2, 12220 Vk Gdš T/Fx: +381 12 663 179 E-: @v. www.v. T O Gc Mcpy G Tšć-Mčk 1, 12223 Gc T: +381 12 638 614 E-: c01@.c www.c.
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MAJDANPEK, KLADOVO
Beauties of the scend 300 metres down to the waters o the Danube, where the width o the riverbed measures 150-170 m. The nearby Veliki Kazan (big cauldron) Canyon eatures a plethora o whirlpools, some 71 m deep and below sea level. Visit the viewing point at Ploče and east your eyes on this remarkable canyon. The Lepenski Vir archaeological site is located upstream rom Donji Milanovac. The site, which dates back to 6500– 4500 BC, is a cultural monument o great signicance, careully relocated during the building o the Đerdap hydroelectric plant, and later on covered with a protective structure within a contemporary and beautiully arranged visitor centre. Lepenski Vir is one o the most signicant archaeological sites in Europe, boasting extraordinary remnants o culture and art. The discovery o settlements – sanctuaries that date back to prehistoric times is incredible and archaeologists believe that people have lived in this area continuously or over 1500 years.
ACTIVITIES
НЕ ТРЕБА ПРОПУСТИТИ: – видети Трајанову таблу са Дунава – купити риболике фигуре у Лепенском виру – ручак у старом селу Манастирица
MAJDANPEK – SIGHTS The small town o Majdanpek in the Bor District is best known or its mines and the mining tradition has lasted here or 7,000 years. Majdanpek lies 192 kilometres rom Belgrade and visitors to the town will be surprised to see a number o high-rise buildings that are a result o its geographical position on a narrow and short basin surrounded by hills on all sides, which has seen the town develop vertically rather than horizontally. The Danube orms an elbow as it snakes its way through this municipality, with the city o Donji Milanovac situated at its vertex. The Danube here is 1,800 metres wide and quite calm, making it an ideal spot or a boat ride or water sports. Donji Milanovac was built ollowing the construction o the Đerdap hydroelectric power plant. The town was built on an manmade plateau and eatures old buildings relocated rom the town o Stari Milanovac. The Đerdap National Park and gorge are located nearby. The Đerdap Gorge in the Municipality o Majdanpek is considered the most beautiul on the Danube. Its sheer walls de-
There are approximately 110 caves in the vicinity o Majdanpek. The Rajkova Cave, which is just 2.5 kilometres rom the city, is considered the most extraordinary and is open to visitors every day. Explore beyond Majdanpek and discover the impressive Miloš Tower, which is located near the Porečka River Valley just o the road rom Donji Milanovac towards Rudna Glava. The remains o 14th-century town walls are located seven kilometres rom Rudna Glava. The Rudna Glava archaeological site is located in the village o the same name. The site eatures one o the oldest prehistoric metal mines, which historians believe dates back to the period between the Stone Age and the Bronze Age. A stop at the scenic Miroč village and mountain is a must i you are visiting the area. The nearby Gradašica Cave eatures a number o round karst valleys, hollows, depressions and abysses. The remains o the ancient Roman Gerutalis Fortress are also worth visiting. The Đerdap National Park oers stunning view o its valleys and canyons. Though access to some o the park’s locations can be a little challenging, we recommend you take one o two roads which cut through the park. The rst is rom Donji Milanovac heading to Oman and then Majdanpek. The second is rom Donji Milanovac heading to the village o Miroč. I you are interested in hiking, the park oers a well-developed network o trails that eature the best views o the breath-taking scenery.
KLADOVO – SIGHTS I you happen to visit Kladovo (243 kilometres rom Belgrade), take a moment to gaze across the banks o the Danube and don’t be surprised i you think you are at the seaside! The mighty Đerdap Gorge ends at the outer edges o Majdanpek municipality. Explore this area and discover the 16-km Orşova Valley and 6.5-km Sipska Canyon at the exit to the Mali Kazan. The quaint town o Kladovo eatures a number o well-pre-
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Đerdap Gorge served structures and settlements along the banks o the Danube. A number o buildings here, including the Archaeological Museum o Đerdap, are under state protection. The Kladovo promenade eatures a beautiul 900-metre-long beach overlooking the Danube.
ACTIVITIES I you are looking to see a unique historical monument in the area, head to the ancient Roman city o Dierne (now known as Orşova) on the let bank o the Danube. You will discover the gure o Dacian King Decebalus carved into a rock at the conuence o the Marakonija and Danube rivers. Tekija was the rst settlement in the Kladovo municipality. Located in the western corner o the municipality near Kazan, Tekija is a typical shing town and is home to the Zlatna Bućka (Golden bućka) competition to catch the best catsh in Europe. Today access to the amous Trajan Plaque, Tabula Traiana in Latin, which lies near the Đerdap Highway, is only possible by boat. This important cultural monument dates back to the beginning o the 2nd century. Trajan’s Bridge is located our kilometres rom Kladovo in the village o Kostol. The architect Apolodor built the bridge in the period between the years o 103 and 105. Together with the adjacent ortication called Pontes, it is a signicant Roman period monument in this part o the world. Diana, a Roman and early-Byzantine ortress that dates back to the period between 102 and 103, is located on the banks o the Danube. It is one o the world’s largest Roman-Byzantine ortresses. Kladovo has a small ethno-zone comprising our villages. I you visit this unique spot you will note traces o traditional village architecture, customs and mannerisms. Make certain to sample some o the delectable traditional dishes here.
FISHY FIGURES The prehistoric site at Lepenski Vir is home to some o the most unusual sculpted sh-like gures in the world, representing the oldest monumental gures in Europe. The settlement is laid out in a horseshoe shape and is a testament to the builders’ knowledge o mathematics.
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T O Mjdpk Mcpy Kj P I , 19220 Dj Mvc T: +381 30 590 184, 596 184, 596 185, Fx: +381 30 590 184 E-: c@. www.. T I C Dj Mvc Kj P I T: +381 30 591 400 E-: c@., jkv.pc@. T O Kdv Mcpy Dvk 16, 19320 Kdv T: +381 19 801 690 E-: kdv@.c www.kdv. T I C Kdv T: +381 19 801 773
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BOR, NEGOTIN
An Oasis of Tranquill
WE RECOMMEND: – Sampling a glass o Bukovac tamjanika wine – Seeing the amazing stone gates at Vratna Monastery – Visiting Lazareva Cave
BOR – SIGHTS
ACTIVITIES
Bor is located in eastern Serbia 230 kilometres rom Belgrade. According to historical records, the town dates back to the 18th century. Several majestic mountains surround Bor, including Stol (1165 m), Veliki Krš (1148 m) and Crni Vrh (1043m).
Explore beyond Bor and you will discover the Lazareva Cave, which was opened to visitors in 1953. The cave, ormed rom the sot soil o the River Lazar, eatures a spring near its entrance. Historians believe there were settlements near this cave in the Bronze Age. A collection o woodworking chisels, awls, knives, axes and decorative objects dating back 5,000 years was discovered here, suggesting the existence o a prehistoric metal workshop. The Vernjikica Cave, which lies just one kilometre rom Lazareva, is also worth seeing.
Though there are several archaeological sites that suggest the existence o settlements during the Bronze Age, the rst real town was established here during the Roman period. Following liberation rom the Turks, Prince Miloš Obrenović hired Baron Herdera to explore the natural resources o Serbia. The baron discovered the healing mineral waters o Brestovica, not ar rom Bor, and in Bor itsel he ound something even more signicant: mineral resources. Prince Miloš built a konak residence near the mineral spring, while the opening o the mine would ollow later. Đorđe Va jert, one o Serbia’s wealthiest individuals at the beginning o the 20th century, was on a quest to extract mineral resources. He successully excavated the mine in 1903 and thus became the owner o the biggest copper mine in Europe. Bor’s Museum o Mining and Metallurgy displays more than 15,000 articles, more than any o its kind in Serbia.
In 1953 a dam was erected at the oothills o Crni Vrh just 16 kilometres rom Bor. This created an articial lake sourced rom three mountain rivers. Though the lake was originally intended to be used by the nearby mine, the water was so pure that it became an ideal spot or swimming. I you are an outdoors enthusiast, head to Crni vrh and take advantage o the campsite and other acilities near the lake. At the edge o Bor you will nd one o the biggest and deepest open mine pits in Europe. The mine, which is no longer in operation, draws a number o visitors every year.
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ity and Purity MOKRANJAC Stevan Stojanović Mokranjac was a amous composer who hailed rom Negotin. Considered Serbia’s greatest composer o all time, Mokranjac dedicated his ourth Rukovet (artwork) to his hometown. His 15 works are considered the highest achievements o Serbian music. Today the house Mokranjac was born in has been converted into a Museum. Every year the city hosts the Mokranjac Days music estival in his honour.
NEGOTIN – SIGHTS Negotin is the centre o the Negotin Krajina area that orms Serbia’s border with Romania and Bulgaria. It is 250 kilometres rom Belgrade, 70 kilometres rom Romania and 13 kilometres rom Bulgaria. The old town o Negotin comprises the Čaršija (bazaar), several buildings, monuments, ountains and a nearby park. This area is protected by the state as a cultural heritage site. It includes the birth house o Stevan Mokranjac and the residence o Prince Todorče, the oldest preserved Negotin town house, which is today home to the Museum o Hajduk Veljko. The area under protection also includes the 19th-century College o Education building and the 19th-century Holy Trinity Cathedral. The 14th-century Negotin Fortress, called Baba Finka, is also a highlight o the old town.
ACTIVITIES Negotin Krajina includes approximately 1000 hectares o vineyards. The autochthonous grape varieties grown here include bagrinja, začinak, prokupac, vranac and smederevka. Negotin Krajina, however, is best known or its tamjanika grape variety. Head to the cellars o the Agriculture School to sample its amous wine!
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Negotin’s pimnice (wine cellars) are representative o the region’s 18th and 19th century ethnological wine cellars ound in several Timok villages. Along with the old cemeteries in Rajac and Rogljevo, they are protected by the state as symbols o Serbia’s heritage. The right mix o traditional methods o vineyard planting, pruning, processing and producing wine, together with a avourable altitude and pristine environmental conditions, usually ensures yields o the highest quality wine. The pimnice o this region were built o pure stone and dug one metre deep, in order to accommodate several 5000-litre barrels. Built in the second hal o the 18th century, the Rajac pimnice are located near the village o Rajac. The piminice are unique in that they represent Serbia’s small stone town o wine, or as it is called – Serbian St. Stean. The piminice are so popular that several domestic lms were shot here. I you are intrigued and want to see more, head to nearby Rogljevo, Smedovac, Štubik and Tamnič, which eature several large pimnice. Explore this area urther and discover the ancient Romanperiod sites o Vrelo Šarkamen and Ad Akvas. The nearby Vratna Monastery is located close to the River Jabuka. This beautiul monastery eatures several stone gates that have been contorted by natural elements over the years. The gates are known as Veliki Prerast, Mali Prerast and Suvi Prerast. A cornucopia o rivers and orests surround the beautiul Vratna complex, which is one o the most attractive spots in this region. The Stevanske meadows are some o the most scenic air spas in Serbia and are also popular with local hunters. Badnjevo Hill in the vicinity o Negotin is a avourite excursion site or locals in the area.
T O B Mcpy Mš Pjd 19, 19210 B T: +381 30 459 020 E-: @p., 030@p.k. www.. T O N Mcpy Vjvd Mšć 25, 19300 N T: +381 19 547 555 E-: @.c www...
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ZAJEČAR, BOLJEVAC
Rich Nature’s ACTIVITIES Zaječar is home to a number o estive events throughout the year. These include the Gitarijada international youth guitar estival, which has become one o the most popular music events in Serbia, Theatre Days o Zoran Radmilović, the Summer School o Philosophy and Days o Hajduk Veljko. Explore beyond Zaječar and discover the Suvodol Monastery in the Selačka area near Manastirska Glama Mountain. According to olk legend, the monastery is closely connected to Tsar Lazar. Some say the monastery bears a strong resemblance to Žiča Monastery. The nearby St. Peter and Paul Monastery, close to Grlišta, was one o the centres o the Crna Reka uprising. Gamzigradska Banja spa is located 11 kilometres rom Zaječar and eatures a number o hot springs and sports acilities. Head eight kilometres to north and you will nd the Nikoličevo thermal spring. Though research has suggested the springs here have therapeutic benets, a spa has yet to be built. Nevertheless, the site draws a great number o visitors every year.
ZAJEČAR – SIGHTS Zaječar is located at the conuence o the Crni Timok and Beli Timok rivers. The town, which is 250 kilometres rom Belgrade via highways E-75 and E-761, lies just 11 kilometres rom Serbia’s border with Bulgaria. Though it lies in the heart o the Timočka Krajina region and is the largest town in the area, Zaječar is a relatively young town. It became part o the principality o Serbia in 1833 and, thanks to the diligence o its inhabitants and its ertile land rich in orchards and vineyards, very soon became the country’s second most prosperous town ater Belgrade. Zaječar is the homeland o amous Serbian gures Nikola Pašić, Ljuba Didić, Zoran Radmilović and Hajduk Veljko. Svetozar Marković, a revolutionary and key proponent o socialism in the Balkans, was also born here. There are several prominent sites you should see i you are visiting the town. The beautiul Radul-Bey residence on Ljube Nešića Street is the traditional house o a wealthy amily rom the early 19th century. You can purchase a variety o traditional regional souvenirs on the ground oor o the building. Make certain to stop by the permanent (Old) Stari Zaječar exhibit on the rst oor. The Zaječar National Museum is also worth visiting and eatures a wide range o excavations rom the Gamzigrad archaeological site, including the head o the Galerius statue. Stroll through the town centre and discover the e xtraordinarily beautiul High School and 1911 Municipal Seat buildings. The main square, named ater Yugoslav Prime Minister Nikola Pašić, eatures a monument by sculptor Antun Augustinčić dedicated to the victims o the 1912–1918 wars.
Zaječar Municipality has three scenic manmade lakes. Though the Grliško Lake was created to supply the town with drinking water, it eventually became a popular excursion spot. Rgotsko Lake was ormed by underground water and rain that collected during excavations o quartz in the village o Rgotina 11 kilometres rom Zaječar.
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Zaječar National Museum – Taking photos at the Felix Romuliana Palace – Collecting herbs on Mount Rtanj
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Gifts
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Rtanj also boasts a variety o herbs and is a avourite spot or herbalists. The amous Rtanj tea is made rom the native violet that grows here and can only be ound in the central part o the mountain when it blooms in August. Herbalists rom all over Europe come here to gather it. I you are visiting Mount Rtanj it is worth stopping at the mid-14th-century Lozica Church, located on one o its ridges. The 1501 Lapušnja Monastery and Church o St. Elijah in Boljevac are also worth visiting.
T O Zjč Svz Mkvć 2, 19000 Zjč T: +381 19 421 521 E-: z@p.k. www.zjc.c. T O Bjvc Mcpy Kj Akd 17/1, 19370 Bjvc T: +381 30 463 593 E-: jvc@p.k.
GAMZIGRAD The ruins o the Felix Romuliana Palace are located in Gamzigrad not ar rom Zaječar. Roman Emperor Galerius named the palace in memory o his mother Romula. The structure is considered one o the most grandiose achievements o Roman architecture and historians believe Emperor Galerius’s remains were cremated and placed in the nearby tumulus.
BOLJEVAC ACTIVITIES Boljevac Municipality eatures the beautiul Crni Timok River Valley between the Kučaj, Rtanj, Tumba, Slemen and Tupižnica mountains. Rtanj Mountain is a genuine oasis or nature lovers that it is easy to all in love with. I you are an outdoor sports enthusiast, this is the perect place or you. The mountain is ideal or ree climbing, mountaineering, hunting and shing. I you are hiking on the ridges o Rtanj Mountain, you can easily spot the surrounding Jastrebac, Malinik and Kučaj mountains, as well a good part o the Boljevac region.
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SOKOBANJA
Restorative Thermal
WE RECOMMEND: – A stroll through Soko Grad – A drink rom one o Jošanica’s ountains – A visit to the Ripljanka Waterall
SOKOBANJA – SIGHTS Sokobanja lies 30 kilometres rom Aleksinac and is accessible via road and rail routes rom Belgrade (235 kilometres) towards Niš, Thessaloniki and Istanbul. Sokobanja was Serbia’s rst ecologically oriented municipality, with tourism and agriculture comprising most o its economic activities. The municipality is located beside the River Moravica between Ozren and Rtanj Mountains, some 400m above sea level. Today Sokobanja is one o the most popular spas in Serbia. Its ideal climate and restorative thermal and mineral springs are among some o the best in this part o Europe. Sokobanja has attracted visitors or over 150 years. The spa’s healing medicinal springs appeal to those suering rom chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, psychoneurosis, high blood pressure, chronic rheumatism, exhaustion and a number o other ailments. You can also certainly come here i you in perect health. Take the opportunity to relax and breathe in the cool mountain air. Though Sokobanja has been popular since ancient times, it was Prince Miloš Obrenović who developed the spa into a modern town. He built a konak residence, a Serbian Orthodox Church, a Turkish hamam bathroom and ountain in the town centre. Visit Sokobanja to see these structures that are still standing.
The beautiul Turkish hamam is still in use and you can take a tour o the beautiul Milošev konak. Traditional village residences surround the quaint 1884 church. Stroll through the town centre and see the National Museum, which is housed in a traditional building typical to this region o Serbia. The town was named ater Soko Grad (Town) Fortress, which is located two kilometres rom the centre o the spa near the River Moravica. Built in the late Middle Ages on the site o ancient Roman remains, the ortress is perched on a spectacular cli. Sokobanja resembles a large lush park and its most beautiul part is undoubtedly the Čuka Dva Forest. There are two rehabilitation centres on the ridges o Ozren Mountain near the Ripljanka Waterall, which is the tallest in Serbia. The nearby articial Bovan Lake is rich sh, boasting the most sh o any lake in Serbia.
ACTIVITIES The temperature o the Sokobanja thermal springs ranges rom 28 to 45 degrees Celsius. According to experts, the springs emit gasses that are extremely benecial to the human body’s respiratory organs. Come and experience the restorative powers o these springs or yoursel! Apart rom Sokobanja, you can visit the nearby springs o Sonda Park, Bunar Preobraženje, Banjica Bazen I, Banjica II and Pijaca. Some say that Nobel Prize winning novelist Ivo Andrić would
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Springs
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ACCORDION
visit these springs every year, including the year he wrote the world-amous Bridge on the Drina. Stevan Sremac, the writer who brought southern Serbia to lie through his work, also requented these springs. In act, he spent the last ew days o his lie here. Writer Isidora Sekulić and geographer Jovan Cvijić also visited Sokobanja, reerencing the spa in their work. Some seventy years ago well-known comedy writer Branislav Nušić, a regular guest to Sokobanja, penned the amous expression, “Sokobanja, Soko Grad, come here old and leave young”. There are a number o religious gures that appear in various nature spots around Sokobanja. The gure o the Holy Mother o God and Christ is outlined in one o the clis on Ozren Mountain. The small Armenian St. Archangel Church appears in the relie o the mountain. Here you will also nd the Hajduk Veljko Cave in the orest just o the road leading to Soko Grad. The Ascension o the Most Holy Mother o God Church, which is located in the vicinity o Sokobanja, eatures highly unique rescoes: Jesus depicted as a child, a young man and, nally, as an adult. The mountainous terrain surrounding Sokobanja and the Lepterija excursion site are also worth visiting. I you are in the area, make certain to stop at the village o Jošanice, which eatures several thermal springs. The highlight o the town is easily its ountain, which sources water rom six dierent thermal springs!
Sokobanja has staged the International Accordion Festival every summer or the past ve decades. Over the course o three days, accordion maestros rom Serbia and the Diaspora come here to compete in seven categories. They include the youngest and oldest accordion players and duets. The winners o each category are announced during a estive cultural and artistic programme on the third day o the estival, which is also the Sokoban ja Day o Hot Springs.
O C, T d Sp Skj T đj 2, 18230 Skj T: +381 18 833 988 E-: k_kj@. www.k.. T I C Skj T: +381 18 833 978, 833 988
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NIŠ, NIŠKA BANJA, ALEKSINAC
Homeland of Constant NIŠ – SIGHTS The city o Niš lies on a ertile plain surrounded by mountains at the conuence o the Nišava and Southern (Južna) Morava rivers, which comprise the two main river travel routes in the Balkans. Since ancient times these routes have led to Soa, Constantinople (Istanbul) and Thessaloniki. The two waterways merge near Niš beore continuing to Belgrade and on to Central Europe. Niš is 238 kilometres rom Belgrade via a direct highway link. Sometime beore the birth o Christ, the Romans conquered this town and named it Naissus. It is the birthplace o Roman Emperor Constantine the Great and Niš ourished during his reign rom 312 to 337 AD. During the Middle Ages this region was part o Byzantium, Bulgaria and the Kingdom o Hungary. For almost 400 years thereater Niš ell under Turkish rule. In the period rom 1719 to 1723 the Ottomans built Niš’s amous ortress on the right bank o the River Nišava. Today the structure has been adapted to meet modern needs. The Artistic Pavilion is now located in the 1857 Arsenal building, Salon 77 is inside the ormer Bali-Bey Mosque and the Pasha’s residence now houses an administrative ofce. The ancient
WE RECOMMEND: – A drink at one o Niš’s Kujundžijsko sokače caes – Admiring the mosaics at the Mediana archaeological site – A taste o Aleksinac’s delicious ćevapčići
prison is n o w h om e to the Niš Investigation Centre. In 1975 the City erected a large stage in one part o the ortress and today it is the venue or the Festival o Theatre Achievement, several choir estivals and the Nisomnia Summer Music Festival. The city has developed along the let bank o the river since the 14th century and there are ve main roads that branch out rom the city centre’s Liberation Square. At the end o the 14th century a mosque was built on this bank o the Nišava and a large open space was created when the mosque was later demolished. This space eventually became the city square and soon blossomed into a lively pedestrian zone eaturing a number o beautiul buildings. Built in the 1960s, the city centre’s Hotel Ambasador was Niš’s rst high-rise building. Stroll to the centre o the square and you will nd the monument by Antun Augustinčić dedicated to the liberators o Niš. You will also discover a beautiul building in the direction o the river and central park that is used by the city’s mayor. Obrenović Street, which was once a covered bazaar, is now the city’s main commercial street. It stretches rom the central square to the southern parts o the city. This vibrant street is now a pedestrian zone dotted with an array o shops, caes and restaurants. Enjoy a Kujundžijsko sokače brass band at one o the caes here. Explore urther and discover the beautiul Stambolijski Family Residence, one o the most stunning examples o Turkish residential architecture. Today the building is home to a popular restaurant. The Niš Orthodox Church is located on the southern outskirts o the old town in a ormer Christian neighbourhood known as Crkvena mala. Ćele kula (Skull Tower) is easily one o Niš’s most important sights. Located two kilometres rom the centre o town, it was erected ollowing a gory battle at Čegar between the Serbian army and the Ottoman Turks. Ater the battle Turkish Commander Hushid-pasha ordered his soldiers skin every head o a allen Serbian soldier, ll it with hey, send it to the Sultan o Istanbul and stack the skulls into a tower which would serve as a permanent warning to the Serbian people. O the total 852 skulls that were used to build the tower,
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ine the Great 58 are preserved today. Venture out o town in the direction o Niška Banja and discover the renowned Mediana archaeological site. Built by Constantine the Great as his summer residence in around 330AD, the remains o the palace include a baptistery, granary, thermaes and pagan temple. You will see some o the most extraordinary mosaics here. These stunning works depict gorgons, Medusa and the God o Water, as well as a range o beautiul geometric patterns.
NIŠKA BANJA ¬ACTIVITIES For centuries suerers o cardiac and cardiovascular diseases, rheumatism and sciatica have ocked to Niška Banja spa, which lies 10 kilometres rom the city at the oot o Mount Koritnik. Radon thermal springs, which have an average water temperature o 37 degrees Celsius, were renowned during the Roman and Byzantine times. The opening o a tramline connecting the spa to Niš greatly boosted its development between WWI and WWII. The spa contains peloid, a natural therapeutic mud recommended or suerers o rheumatism. Another spa, Banja Topilo, lies 25 kilometres rom Niš. I you are a nature enthusiast, head to the spectacular 17-km-long Sićevačka Gorge and River Nišava. The area is dotted with more than 30 churches and monasteries. Thanks to its extraordinary beauty, the area has received special status as a nature resort. The Jelašnička Canyon, which also enjoys this special status, is just 15 kilometres away.
ALEKSINAC – SIGHTS The River Moravica joins the Southern Morava at Aleksinac, which is 30 kilometres rom Niš via Highway E-75 towards Belgrade. Interestingly, Aleksinac was the rst town to be connected to Belgrade by telegraph. Traces o ancient civilisations are evident at every corner here. Explore the town’s surroundings and you will discover several amazing ortresses, including Bolvan, Petrus, Lipovac, Gradac, Kulina and Korman. According to historical records, Aleksinac was one o the most prominent towns in the area during the rule o Prince Miloš Obrenović. Its
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T O Nš Vžd Kđđ 7, 18000 Nš T: +381 18 521 321, 523 118, 524 877, 250 222 E-: 1@p.k., 2@p.k. www... T I C Nšk Bj Sđćv 3B, 18205 Nšk Bj T: +381 18 4548 588 O T d Sp „OTIS“ – Akc Dš Tvc 54, 18220 Akc T: +381 18 804 025 E-: kc@p.k. rich traditions, resources and architecture are still evident here today. I you are visiting the area it is worth stopping at Deligrad, the site o several battles and victories during the First Serbian Uprising against the Turks.
ACTIVITIES The people here are proud o their customs and have worked hard to preserve them. Since 1965 Aleksinac has staged the Old watermill on the River Morava event. Every September the town o Rutevac hosts the Convention o the Paprika, while Bakers’ Day takes place every October. Aleksinac is also known or preparing the perect ćevapčići, a local grilled minced meat delicacy.
VRONSKY The Holy Trinity Temple in Gornji Adrovac near Aleksinac was erected on the very spot where Colonel Rayevski was killed. The character Vronsky in Tolstoy’s Ana Karenina novel was based on Rayevski and some believe he was also buried here at one time.
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KNJAŽEVAC, SVRLJIG
A Toast to Roma quarter). Though it is a vibrant and modern neighbourhood brimming with artisan and commercial shops, it still preserves the authentic architecture and spirit o olden times. The stone bridge in Knjaževac was built in 1913 and is one o the key symbols o the town. Visitors enjoy photographing the bridge with the old town and avenue o chestnut trees in the background. The town centre lies on the banks o the Svrljiški Timok River. The picturesque Ace Stanojevića Street aces the river and is dotted with colourul houses and bridge motis. The street runs parallel to Nemanjina Street, where you will nd the town museum located in the ormer home o Aca Stanojević, one o the leaders o the Timok rebellion. The interior o Knjaževac’s late 19th-century town hall has been completely preserved.
KNJAŽEVAC – SIGHTS The town o Knjaževac was built on the conuence o the Svrljiški and Trgoviški Timok rivers, which together orm the River Beli Timok (White Timok). Knjaževac is located o the Niš– Zaječar motorway and is 40 kilometres rom Zaječar and 173 kilometres rom Belgrade. According to historical records, there once was a Roman se ttlement here called Timacum Maius (Big Timok). The name Gurgusovac rst appeared in the 17th century and the settlement was known or the Gurgusovac Tower, which Prince Aleksandar Karađorđević used as a prison or political oenders. When Aleksandar ed in 1869, Prince Miloš had the tower burned to the ground in an eort to do away with this symbol o previous power. The inhabitants o Gurgusovac renamed their town Knjaževac in honour o Prince Miloš. Today the old part o the town is known as Cigan mala (the
Stroll to the other side o the riverbank and you will discover the National Museum, which is located in the luxurious 1906 home o the Sibinović amily. I you are in the town centre you will see the amous Džervin Villa. This beautiul house, owned by Đoko Cvetković, was built to replicate the villas o a Czech spa. You will nd the oldest vineyards in the region on Džervin hill. The Knjaževac vineyards grow autochthonous grape varieties, including prokupac, vranac and plovdin. The owners o the vineyards also host an annual Smoked Ham, Wine and Cheese Fair. The Knjaževac Wine Fair takes place every May. The village o Donja Kamenica is 15 kilometres south o Knjaževac. Mihailo, a Bulgarian estate owner, built the town church at the start o the 14th century. The west side o the church is adorned with two unusual spiked towers that shield the view o the dome behind them. The beautiul rescoes here depict the church’s patron with his amily and saints riding horses. Explore urther and discover the Gornja Kamenica village and monastery. Despot Lazar, son o Đurađ Branković, built this simple, unadorned and unpainted structure. Eight kilometres rom Knjaževac, the village o Ravna is home to Timacum Minus, a Roman Era archaeological site.
T O Kjžvc Mcpy Mš Oć 1, 19350 Kjžvc T: +381 19 735 230, 730 988 E-: kjzvc@p.k. www.kjzvc.. T I C Kjžvc Kjz Mš 37, 19350 Kjžvc T: +381 19 735 230, 730 988
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Džervin Wine
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Here you will nd excavated monuments, tombstones and ancient residences. Stroll through Ravna and you will discover a small wine museum. The village is also known or its collection o double threaded woollen socks. Along with Ravna, the other villages o the Timok Valley are well known or their well-preserved traditions and motis.
ACTIVITIES I you need to rest and unwind, head to one o Knjaževac’s two amous spas: Rgoška Banja and Bazen Banjica. Relax in the soothing hot waters o the spas, which also include a range o amenities and sports acilities. Tupižnica is located on the outskirts o Knjaževac and marks the highest point in the vicinity o the town. Locals oten come here or excursions and, as an area rich in game, it is a popular spot or hunters. Every May the village o Balta Berilovac, which lies 35 kilometres rom Knjaževac, is home to the Molitva pod Midžorom (Prayer under Midžor Mountain) event, which consists o various rituals and regional customs. Visit the village and discover the beautiul watermill on its creek. Knjaževac is renowned or its traditional cheese-making methods and cheeses rom this region are well known throughout Serbia and beyond.
SVRLJIG – SIGHTS The small town o Svrljig lies on the Knjaževac–Niš motorway between Svrljig Mountain and the town o Tresibaba on the River Timok. Svrljig’s economy and administration are largely dependent on Niš and the surrounding area is part o the larger Svrljig Timok River basin. The Svrljig Valley is one o the most important passageways between the Carpathian Mountains and the rest o the region’s mountains. The area is a popular spot or local shermen and this scenic area oers a range o possibilities or the urther development o mountain and rural excursions.
WE RECOMMEND: – Sampling some delicious wine in the village o Ravna – Tasting some delicious sausage at the Kamiondžije Restaurant in Svrljig – An excursion to Balta Berilovac
ONE-METRE SAUSAGE Svrljig’s Kamiondžije (Trucker) Restaurant is well known or serving sausage and pork steak by the metre. I you are hungry or some traditional ood, Svrljig ofers a range o delectable cuisine, including roast lamb. Stop by one o the town’s restaurants to discover they eature an epithet o the town tavern, a plaid tablecloth and a estive old-time atmosphere.
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PIROT, STARA PLANINA
Traditional Rugs and PIROT – SIGHTS Nestled between the Pannonian basin in the Danube River Valley and the Timok basin at the eastern e dge o Europe, Pirot is located at the heart o the Balkans. This beautiul area, which is one o Serbia’s largest municipalities, is halway between Niš and Soa in the Nišava River Valley. The ancient settlement o Tures (Latin or towers) was rst cited in the Tabula Peutingeriana, a 4th century Roman map, and today comprises the area o contemporary Pirot. The original settlement was established to control and protect the main road in this part o the Empire and travellers would stop to rest and change horses and carriages. Since Tures was not mentioned again in the centuries that ollowed, very little is known about the region during that time. It was not until the 15th century that written records reerencing Pirot began to appear. The town was originally known as Pirgos, which originates rom Greek. Several dierent armies conquered the region and, judging by the architecture o the monasteries in the region, Pirot was part o Serbia’s Stean Nemanja state. In 1877 it was liberated ater more than ve centuries o Turkish occupation. Explore Pirot and you will discover the Pirot Fortress perched on a hill overlooking the city. Some believe the ortress once belonged to Duke Momčilo, as described in an epic poem. The walled ortress, once called Momčilov Grad (Momčilo’s Town), was in use rom the 14th century until the end o WWII. The River Nišava divides Pirot into two parts: Pazar, on the let bank o the river, was a mixed community o Turks and Serbs: Tijabara, on the right bank, was an exclusively Serb community. I you visit the area you will discover the two neigh-
bourhoods each have an orthodox church dating back to the period o Turkish rule. The oldest, built in 1834, is in Pazar. The church in Tijabara dates back to 1869. Interestingly, both churches eature icons that are believed to have healing powers. The 1848 House o Hristić is located in Tijabara. One o the most beautiul 19th-century Balkan townhouses, it has been converted into the Museum o the Nišava River Valley. Visit the museum and marvel at the rich collection o traditional costumes, Pirot rugs and pottery. Just a ew steps away you will nd the beautiul Bela Mačka (White Cat) building, named ater the tavern that once stood on the same site. Stroll down Srpskih vladara Street, once part o the road heading to Constantinople (Istanbul), and discover several stunning structures built ollowing the end o Turkish occupation. Walk down Dragoljub Milenković Street and you will discover the 1907 high school and the L-shaped town court building.
ACTIVITIES Pirot’s rug making tradition dates back several centuries. The locals specialise in making these original woven rugs, which were highly valued by the Turks. Sheep arming was a key actor in the development o the rug industry in Pirot. The high quality wool used to create the rugs is sourced locally. As opposed to the Persian rug, the Pirot rug is silky on both sides, eatures contrasting colours, patterns and shapes. Red is the prevailing colour o most o Pirot’s rugs. The various patterns have specic names, including gugtce na direci (turtledoves on pillars), zvezda (star), đulovi (round owers), venci (wreaths), bombe (bombs) and grozdovi (clusters o grapes). The weaving process is quite laborious. The weaver assumes a sitting position to create the rugs on the Pirot loom. I you visit Pirot make certain to take the opportunity to observe this centuries-old tradition.
WE RECOMMEND: – Observing the work o a Pirot weaver – Sampling some delicious cheese and Vurda (a type o cream cheese with peppers) on Stara Planina Mountain – Marvelling at the view rom Babin kuk (Grandma’s hip)
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their Secrets STARA PLANINA – SIGHTS
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CHRIST
The national border between Serbia and The 13th-century St. Peter and Paul Bulgaria is ormed by the natural boundary Church is located inside a cave in Kamik o Stara Planina Mountain. This hundred-kiHill not ar rom the village o Rsovci. lometre stretch rom Zaječar to Pirot arches This exquisite church, 22 kilometres rom slightly beore it continues on to Bulgaria Pirot near Stara Planina Mountain, is and this old mountain is also known as the known or its unique resco o Christ deBalkan Mountain, which inspired the name o the peninsula. picted as a bald young man on its north The area surrounding the mountain is wall. rich in sediment rom various periods in history. The Bigar Spring Valley ollows the Temštica, while the Midžor and Babin Zub (Grandmother’s tooth) mountains are located nearby. The eye-shaped Jelovička spring is the largest in the region and eatures a small pool. More than 1190 plant species have been identied on Stara Planina, making it one o the most important regional centres o native plant species. Specic plants include the krilasti zvončić (winged bell) a nd the Pančić common groundsel, which grows only on Stara Planina. The mountain bog can be ound on Jabučko plateau, Babin Zub Mountain and the territory o Arbinje. There are 116 species o butteries, 18 species o amphibians and reptiles, 203 species o birds and over 30 species o mammals on Stara Planina. The mountain is the natural habitat o the longlegged buzzard, skylark and woodcock. The Stara Planina II hunting ground, which stretches across 40408 hectares, is located on the southeast side o this mountain. It is rich in deer, roe deer, wild boar, bear, wol, rock partridge and wild wood pigeon. Explore beyond Stara Planina and discover a number o cultural monuments in the area. These include the 14th-century St. John the Theologian Monastery and the 16th-century St. George Monastery. Zavojsko Lake and the rivers Visočica and Toplodolska are all well stocked with trout and are ideal or shing. The cheese rom Stara Planina and Pirot is renowned across the region. It is made rom sheep’s milk and produced according to a local tradition. Vurda is a type o cream cheese made rom sour milk that is ermented or a month and mixed with peppers. Vurda is one the region’s top quality dairy products. Sample these delicious dairy delicacies or yoursel! I you are looking or a place to relax, head to the popular Zvonačka Banja spa 30 kilometres rom Pirot, which enjoys ideal climate conditions. The nearby Asenovo Kale Cli is the one place in Serbia where you can still see the nest o a golden eagle.
T O P Mcpy Spkh vd 77, 18300 P T: +381 10 320 838, 320 839 E-: p010@p.k. www.p.c
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VLASOTINCE, BABUŠNICA, DIMITROVGRAD AND
The Enchanting Lomnica and Skrapež. For more than 45 years the town has organised the Wine Ball event, which is dedicated to wine production in this region. This estive gathering, which takes place each August on the banks o the River Vlasina near the Nešić quay, includes the crowning o the Goddess o wine and the Prince o the estival by the Independent Principality o Vlasotince. I you are visiting during the event, you will have several opportunities to sample some o the best wine the local vineyards have to oer. There is also plenty o entertainment, culminating with a parade eaturing the Prince o the estival. The Wine Ball also eatures an artists’ colony whose motis are always grapes and wine. Explore beyond Vlastonice and discover the mountains o Suva Planina, Čemernik and Čobanac. This scenic splendour eatures diverse ora and auna. Come here to enjoy exceptionally rereshing mountain air!
BABUŠNICA – SIGHTS
VLASOTINCE – SIGHTS Vlasotince Municipality is located in southeast Serbia at the conuence o the Vlasina and Great Morava rivers near Suva Planina Mountain. Situated in the eastern part o the Leskovac Valley, Vlasotince is just ve kilometres rom the Belgrade–Skopje Highway, 294 kilometres rom Belgrade. Historical records rst cite Vlasotince in the 16th century. I you are visiting the town, a stop at the National museum, which eatures some o the most unique 16th to 19th century graphic art, is a must! Apart rom the museum, the town has a rich array o cultural and historical monuments, including Giga House, which today houses the Town Library, the Popović Mill and the Sokolski Centre. The old market and memorial graveyard are exceptionally well preserved and authentic. Stroll down to the River Vlasina and you will come across a monument honouring the soldiers o WWI and the Balkan wars.
ACTIVITIES Vlasotince specialises in winemaking and the city’s wine producers established a cooperative in 1923 that today comprises producers rom the towns o Dadince, Šišava, Donja
Babušnica Municipality neighbours Pirot and Bela Palanka municipalities to the north, the Bulgarian border to the east, the Vlasotince and Crna Trava municipalities to the south and Gadžin Han to the west. Babušnica is located on the E-9 Highway (Leskovac to Pirot), which connects to highways E-75 and E-80. Babušnica lies at the heart o the Lužnica River Valley, which has an altitude o 520 m. This pleasant town on the ridges o Stara Planina is well known or the Komarički wateralls and watermills scattered around the springs o the River Lužnica. A dam is currently being built close to the Skokovi wateralls which will create a manmade lake on the River Raljinska, a tributary o the River Murgovića. When completed, the lake will measure 200 metres in length and will undoubtedly oer plenty o un and recreation.
T O Dvd Bkk 7, 18320 Dvd T: +381 10 360 873 E-: dvd@p., dvd@yh.c www.dvd..
CRNA TRAVA BELGRADE
Allure of Nature ACTIVITIES Zvonačka Banja spa, which lies 28 kilometres east o
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Babušnica, is a popular tourist destination. The spa is located at an altitude o 680m and oers beautiul mountain scenery. Come here to relax and take advantage o the spa’s healing waters.
stone and limestone. Though the monastery’s patron remains unknown, experts o Byzantine art concur that the icons here are some o the most valuable in the world. The most exquisite are the Miracle in Latom and Christ Pieta icons. The monastery has enjoyed state protection since 1949 and since 1979 has appeared on the list o world cultural heritage sites.
DIMITROVGRAD – SIGHTS
CRNA TRAVA – SIGHTS
Just ve kilometres rom the Bulgarian border, Dimitrovgrad has had many dierent names over the years and prior to WWII was known as Caribrod. This picturesque town eatures plenty o beautiul nature spots and with a wealth o cultural and historical monuments. Wander through the town and visit the Birth o the Most Holy Mother o God Church, built in 1892 and reconstructed in 1997 by the citizens o Dimitrovgrad. Just outside the town you will nd the St. Dimitrije Church, also known as Manastirče, which was reconstructed in 1996. There is a winter sports acility here that is a avourite excursion spot or Dimitrovgrad locals.
The small town o Crna Trava has a population o 2,500 and is 43 kilometres rom Vlasotince. It is not surprising that the town was once known as Vilin Lug (Fairy’s Grove), since splendid nature spots surround the town. It eatures a manicured town centre and several beautiul bridges across the River Vlasina. Crna Trava has always taken advantage o its beautiul surroundings and even when it was a monastery metochion it en joyed complete autonomy and received town status long beore many o its larger neighbours. Overall the town’s lush hundred-year-old orest, numerous trout-rich rivers and hospitable people make Crna Trava an ideal getaway.
ACTIVITIES The St. John the Theologian Monastery, known as Poganovski Monastery, lies 15 kilometres rom Dimitrovgrad in the Jerma River Valley. The monastery was built at the end o the 14th century during the Turkish invasion, just as areas o Serbian rule were slowly disappearing. The Moravian style structure is made o broken brown-
LACE The most stunning eature o the Birth o the Most Holy Mother o God Church in Dimitrovgrad is its iconostasis. Artists rom the Samokovska School crated this beautiul piece rom box wood using the lace method.
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the Vlasotince Principality – Admiring the icons o St. John the Theologian Monastery – Fishing on the small rivers o Crna Trava
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LESKOVAC, LEBANE, BOJNIK
Masters of the LESKOVAC – SIGHTS The City o Leskovac is located on the River Veternica, not ar rom its conuence with the Southern Morava. It borders the municipalities o Doljevac, Gadžin Han, Vlasotince, Vranje and Kosovska Kamenica. Leskovac is 45 kilometres rom Niš and 298 kilometres rom Belgrade. In the mid-12th century, Byzantine Emperor Manuel I Komnenos handed over this region to Stean Nemanja, though the Ottoman Turks captured the city in 1454 and made it the seat o their sandžak (district). Leskovac developed into an important trade city in the 18th century. In 1877 the city underwent a sudden transormation ollowing its liberation rom the Turks. Capitalising on its hemp growing and production, Leskovac developed a robust textile industry. Between WWI and WWII products made in the city were sold across the world and, as a result, Leskovac became known as the Manchester o Serbia. Though most o the town centre was rebuilt in the modern style ollowing WWII, there are still a ew buildings on the main street whose size and beauty are reminiscent o the golden age o Leskovac. The old house o Šop-Đokić is located on Liberation Boulevard and eatures a splendid, wide courtyard. This structure, a prime example o 19th century urban architecture, today houses the Tourism Organisation o Leskovac. I you stroll past Šop-Đokić house you will notice the town’s Old and New churches. The Old Church, Crkva odžaklija (Chimney Church) dates back to the start o the 19th century and has a
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to (Caričin grad) Empress Town – A visit to Odžaklija, the Old Chimney Church in Leskovac – A meal o Leskovački voz, a grilled meat speciality, at one o the local restaurants in Leskovac
very unusual history. Because the Turks orbade the locals rom building a church here, the people announced they were building a house or the priest, even adding a non-unctioning chimney to make it appear more convincing. Six steps lead down to the area underneath the church’s arcades, indicating the depth o the structure. The interior is very dark, with just a ew streams o light seeping through a ew small windows. Next door the New Church is the architectural opposite o the Old Church. This ve-dome structure eatures splendid decorations inspired by a variety o styles rom Serbian medieval heritage. The church was erected in 1931 with the help o Jacques Conn, a amous doctor and prolic writer who was dubbed the Serbian Chekhov. Leskovac is steeped in a rich cultural and historical heritage. The villages in the area boast numerous remnants dating back to the Neolithic period and the Middle Ages. The village o Skobaljić on Kukavica Mountain just above Vučjanka Canyon is a perect example o this. The Textile Industry Museum in Strojkovac showcases the determination o the people o Leskovac to succeed in textile production. You will nd the museum on the road between Leskovac and Vučje. The 1902 Power Plant, today a museum, is a beautiul 19th-century building on the River Vučjanka that still generates power. The monumental Cathedral Church o the Holy Trinity was modelled ater Gračanica Monastery in Kosovo. The church’s holy day coincides with Leskovac’s saints day (slava). Nearby Rudar is home to the St. Petka Temple, whose origins are unknown. Parts o an early Christian basili-
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Skara Barbecue
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nival to showcase traditional olk music and dance. It includes doodle, a ritual song and dance perormed by girls during the dry summer season, and koledare, songs usually perormed by men visiting village homes during Christmas Eve, as well as an array o olk dances.
LEBANE – SIGHTS
A PLJESKAVICA (HAMBURGER) FOR THE RECORDBOOKS Every year see contestants at Leskovac’s Roštiljijada Barbecue Festival compete to see who can make the largest hamburger. The current record holder is Dejan Cvetković. The hamburger he grilled in 2008 weighed an astounding 45 kilograms and measured 120 cm in diameter. ca have also been preserved here. The ortied Hisar Hill, which overlooks Leskovac, is the site o the Monument and Memorial o the Unknown Hero, which honours those who died in WWII. The area surrounding Leskovac is a nature lover’s dream come true. I you are looking or some beautiul scenery, head to the Kukavica and Radan mountains. The Pašina česma, a great excursion spot, is accessible via Bojnik. Babička Forest eatures a range o auna, while Brestovačko Lake (Radansko Lake) is brimming with sh. The pristine Lake Borje on the River Veternica near Kukavica Mountain is one kilometre wide and nine kilometres long.
ACTIVITIES Leskovac has a tradition o red pepper production. In act, it is one o the symbols associated with the town. Leskovac, however, is best known or its amous barbecue – skara, which sees meat prepared on a specic type o grill used in this region. Though you can enjoy this culinary speciality throughout the year, the best time to sample it is during the Roštiljijada Barbecue Festival, which takes place in Leskovac each September. The best grill ches rom across Serbia, Bulgaria and Macedonia congregate in Leskovac or the estival. The people o Leskovac have patented their special recipe or the preparation o pljeskavica (hamburger). The Leskovački voz (Leskovac train) is a amous speciality that consists o various types o grilled meat served in small portions with salad. Leskovac Summer is another o the city’s estive events. This estival eatures activities or all age groups and lasts until the end o July. The people o Leskovac also organise their own car-
Lebane is located in the Jablanica District 27 kilometres rom Leskovac. The town was established in 1878 next to the village o the same name. Today Lebane is a small and pleasant town that oers ideal areas or hiking and recreation. (Caričin grad) Empress Town is situated six kilometres rom Lebane. Its name is associated with the ancient town o Justiniana Prima, named ater Justinian, the Eastern Roman Emperor born in the nearby village o Taurezium. The area is an archaeological site that spreads across several hectares and includes a ortied upper city (acropolis) and lower city. The acropolis, the highest point o the city, is also the site o the ruins o a cathedral church. To the East, the Crypt Basilica was used or the burial o important church dignitaries. Evidence discovered at the site suggests that Justinian wanted to build a large city here.
BOJNIK – SIGHTS Bojnik lies on the River Pusta approximately 20 kilometres north o Leskovac. A very old settlement whose economy is based on agriculture and ruit production, particularly grape growing, the ancient city o Kosturan was once located near Bojnik. The village’s main square eatures a monument that honours the 500 people, mostly children, women and the elderly, who were killed here by German occupiers during a one-day massacre in February 1942. The Brestovac Accumulation Lake is located just outside the city.
T O Lkvc Mkv , 16000 Lkvc T: +381 16 233 360, Fx: +381 16 233 361 E-: kvc@yh.c www... T O L Mcpy C Dš 55, 16230 L T: +381 16 847 160 E-: @.c www... Bjk Mcpy T d 1, 16250 Bjk T: +381 16 821 139, x. 117, 821 214 E-: .jk@v., c@jk..
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PROKUPLJE, KURŠUMLIJA
Exotic Natural PROKUPLJE – SIGHTS
ACTIVITIES
The town o Prokuplje is 250 kilometres rom Belgrade and 31 kilometres southwest o Niš. Though this small town on the River Toplica projects a modern air, archeological excavations have revealed remnants o ancient civilisations that suggest settlements existed here as ar back as the seventh millennium BC.
Excavations on the outskirts o the town date back several centuries and reveal customs that can be traced to several cultures and civilisations. The Hisar Fortress, which consisted o a lower and upper town, is perched on Hisar Hill overlooking the town. An extraordinary monument, it dates back to when Prokuplje was known as Hammemum. A river surrounds the site on three sides. At one time this natural barrier was critical to protecting the main road between the Morava River Valley and Kosovo. The Turks conquered the ortress in 1454, during the same period that they took over the city o Kruševac. The JugBogdan Tower is the only structure that remains o the ortress. According to historical records, it once supplied water to the town rom Toplice. According to legend, the abled Jug-Bogdan, his wie and their nine sons all hail rom Prokuplje. I you are visiting the town, you will notice that many places are named ater him. Remains o old civilisations are on display in Prokuplje’s National Museum, located in the town square.
The St. Prokopije Church at the bottom o Hisar Hill is one o the town’s most important sites. The temple’s core dates back to the 9th century, when it was a three-nave basilica. With subsequent rebuilding, it was transormed into a venave basilica. The basilica is the resting place o St. Prokopije’s remains, which were brought here rom Niš. The town bears this saint’s name. Explore Prokuplje urther and discover the remains o an ancient temple and early Christian church. The Latin Church, known as the Jug-Bogdan Church, is near St. Prokopije Church. This 14th-century structure, which was modelled ater a Roman sanctuary, is likely to have been dedicated to Hercules. The inhabitants o Dubrovnik once had a large commercial colony here and oten worshiped in this onenave church. As a result, it came to be known as the Latin Church. A tragic event occurred in Prokuplje during WWI When the massive Toplica rebellion took place during the Bulgarian occupation o 1916. Some 20,000 people were slaughtered when the rebellion was ultimately crushed.
KURŠUMLIJA – SIGHTS Kuršumlija lies 32 kilometres southeast o Prokuplje. Once the site o the ancient Roman town o Ad Fines, Stean Nemanja – oreather o the Nemanjić Dynasty – spent some time here during the 12th century. Several members o this royal am-
WE RECOMMEND: – A walk up Hisar Hill and to the St. Prokopije Church – A relaxing body treatment at Prolom Banja spa – A visit to the Đavolja Varoš rock ormations
BELGRADE
Formations
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ily were canonised as saints and Nemanja built both the Most Holy Mother o God and St. Nicholas monasteries, which eatured lead roos that once glittered in the sun. The town bore the name o these churches or some time. It was also called Toplice, probably due to the mineral water springs that this region is amous or. The Turks eventually named the town Kuršumlija ater its lead-rooed churches. The region is also known or the numerous legends originating rom the River Radun, one o which proclaims that rivers here ow upstream.
ACTIVITIES The village o Viče near Kuršumlija is the site o an ancient spa sanatorium dating back to the third millennium BC. It is considered the world’s oldest spa. In act, the area is dotted with beautiul spas, including Prolom Banja spa, which lies 23 kilometres rom Kuršumlija. This spa eatures a range o therapeutic mineral waters and is one o Europe’s top spa destinations. Prolom’s bottled water is particularly eective or those suering rom kidney and urinary tract inections. Lukovska Banja spa lies 35 kilometres rom Kuršumlija and is a popular destination or suerers o rheumatism and spinal ailments. The thermo-mineral waters range in temperature rom 59 to 69 degrees Celsius and ow at nearly 100 litres per second. Visitors interested in seeing an unusual natural phenomenon should head to Đavolja Varoš (Devil’s Town), which lies at the base o Radan Mountain not ar rom Kuršumlija. This unique rock ormation, which was a nominee or one o the seven wonders o Nature, is comprised o 202 dierent rock pyramids (or towers). These stone-capped towers, created by erosion, are approximately 20 m high and are mostly grouped in rows. It is difcult to know the exact number o towers at the site, as new ones are continuously being created while old ones all away. Each pyramid tower has its own unique ever-changing shape. Though there is a range o theories on how this incredible rock ormation was created, two stand out in particular: one legend claims that the towers are actually stone children who
T d Sp C Pkpj Zj Jv , 18400 Pkpj T: +381 27 329 919 www.cpk.c T I C Pkpj Rk Pvvć 84, 18400 Pkpj T: +381 27 329 901 E-: cpk@. T O Kšj Mcpy Ph c 15, 18430 Kšj T: +381 27 380 963, 385 881 E-: kj@p.k., @kj.
outsmarted the Devil during a bet; the other claims that the towers were ormed to prevent the Devil rom carrying out a wedding ceremony between a brother and sister. To thwart this sin, an otherworldly orce turned all the guests to stone. When the wind blows among these pyramids, it creates a howling sound that contributes to its haunting atmosphere. Đavolja Varoš is accompanied by two dierent natural springs. The rst, Đavolja voda (Devil’s Water), is highly acidic and possesses a signicant concentration o minerals. The second natural spring is called Crveno Vrelo (Red Well).
GEYSER The Sijarinska Banja spa lies on the banks o the River Jablanica in southern Serbia. The spa eatures 18 mineral water springs ranging in temperature rom 32 to 72 degrees Celsius. Visitors to the spa will notice its remarkable geyser, the only one o its kind in Europe, which shoots hot water eight metres into the air. The spa also eatures a geyser that erupts every ten minutes.
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SURDULICA, VLADIČIN HAN
Delightful Forests and CARNIVOROUS PLANTS The Vlasinsko Lake area is rich in diverse ora and auna. The humid air, extremely cold temperatures and volcanic soil have created the perect conditions or carnivorous plants and other rare auna. Head to the oating isle at Vlasinsko Lake and discover them or yoursel!
WE RECOMMEND: – A visit to the oating isle at Vlasinsko Lake – A drink rom the spring near St. Petka Church (Latin Church) – Enjoying the sound o trumpet music during the Vlasinsko Leto summer estival
SURDULICA – SIGHTS Surdulica is located 348 kilometres south o Belgrade, just 10 kilometres rom the Highway E-75. The town dates back to the Roman era and its name originates rom the Vlach people o Surdulica. In the Middle Ages it was part o the Serbian Nemanjić state, while during Turkish rule Surdulica was largely a mining community. It nally gained town status in 1878. Today Surdulica is a modern town that eatures a beautiul centre and developed inrastructure. One o its main eatures is a modern complex o swimming pools, while its ideal location has made the city a popular air spa. Surdulica is well known or its pure drinking water. It also oers plenty o streams, rivers and lakes. Explore the area and discover the River Vrla and its seven beautiul streams. The river also eatures two large shponds rich in trout. Trout is armed in one o the ponds and is used to stock Vlasinsko Lake as well as several nearby rivers.
ACTIVITIES Vlasinsko Lake is 1200m above sea level and 12 kilometres rom Surdulica. This manmade lake was created in 1949 with the construction o a dam on the River Vlasina. Explore the area around Vlasinsko Lake and discover stunning mountain peaks, clis, springs and rivers. The Palja Monastery and
church in the village o Božica lie on the banks o the lake. You will also nd clusters o beautiul traditional villages in the area and the tourist centre is located on the northeast banks o the lake.
VLADIČIN HAN – SIGHTS Perched on the Grdelica Cli, Vladičin Han is one o the newest settlements in the area. The town was named ater a standalone han (house) that once stood on the imperial road and oered lodgings to caravans. A man known as Stephen the Greek built this 19th century han and later sold it to Skopje’s Metropolitan Bishop Pajsije who renamed the house Vladičin Han (Bishop’s House). A settlement with the same name soon emerged around the house. In 1930 the town was home to approximately twenty merchants who exported cattle, apples and pears. It also eatured a number o watermills and was home to a handul o cratsmen.
BELGRADE
Sparkling Springs T O Sdc Mcpy 5. p 27, 17530 Sdc T: +381 17 813 712 E-: c@dc. www.dc. C C Acv, T d Lhp Vdč H Nk T 2, 17510 Vdč H T: +381 17 473 824 E-: ck@vdch.. www.vdch.. Today the town’s main economic activity is industrial ruit processing. This picturesque town is surrounded by mountains and lies at the conuence o the Vrla and Southern Morava rivers.
ACTIVITIES The Mrtvica village lies 14 kilometres rom Vladičin Han at
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the Grdelica Cli exit. Visitors to the town will discover a beautiul 5th-century monastery o the same name. The monastery is perched high on a plateau hardly larger than its base. The structure’s unusual shape is a result o various phases o construction. Take a ew minutes to marvel at the hand-painted Byzantine-style icons here. Explore urther and discover the St. Elijah Monastery and church in the village o Kacapun, just 13 kilometres rom Vladičin Han. This 13th-century structure also eatures handpainted Byzantine icons. The nearby ascetic St. Petka Church is eight kilometres rom Vladičin Han on the old road linking the town to Vranje. St. Petka is also known as the Latin Church, since many believe it existed beore the arrival o Slavic tribes. The altar looks westwards and the church eatures two openings: one side is lined with candles, while the other overlooks a reshwater spring believed to improve sight and heal headaches.
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VRANJE, BUJANOVAC
The Hot Blooded VRANJE – SIGHTS Located 35 kilometres rom the Macedonian border, Vranje is Serbia’s southernmost town. It is 345 kilometres rom Belgrade via Highway E-75. Anna Conmena rst reerences Vranje in 1093 in the amous Alexiad, but it was King Milutin who annexed Vranje to the Serbian medieval state in 1282, the same year he acceded to the throne. Vranje consequently became the centre o the local župa (a small administrative division). Stroll through the centre o Vranje and you will nd the Orthodox Church o the Holy Trinity in the main square. Though completed in 1841, its imposing size provoked a Turkish rebellion and it was burnt to the ground. A new church was subsequently built on the same site with a number o eatures and characteristics rom the old structure. The new building, however, was dug lower into the ground and had lower domes with no openings and no belry. Arcades surround the structure on three sides. Local artists engraved the iconostasis with ora and auna motis. The most prominent are the icons painted on the iconostasis in 1859 by Dičo Zogra, the most talented icon painter o the Vardar River Valley in Macedonia at the time. A 1922 obelisk located in the square in ront o the churchyard is dedicated to the victims o the Bulgarian occupation o WWI. Stroll down Kralja Steana Prvovenčanog Street and discover Baba Zlatina Street in the old residential part o town. In accordance with Turkish custom, the area was enclosed with high walls on all sides. This picturesque part o town is named in honour o the grandmother o amed local writer Bora Stanković. Zlata’s and Bora’s house is located at 7 Baba Zlatina Street and today houses the Museum o Bora Stanković, who put Vranje on the world map with his novel and characters like Koštana o the Impure Blood. A courtyard ull o owers, which was characteristic o Turkish towns, surrounds the house where Bora was born in 1875. The house was built 90years prior to Bora’s birth and is a Southern Moravian-style structure that eatures a large
T O Vj 29. v 2, 17500 Vj T: +381 17 417 545 E-: vj@yh.c www.vj. T O Bjvc Mcpy Kđđ Pvć 115, 17520 Bjvc T: +381 17 651 013, Fx: +381 17 651 044 E-: yc@jvc.
yard and is typical o a middle class amily home o the time. Head down to Vranje’s busy pedestrian zone to discover Pasha’s residence on Pionirska Street. The complex comprises two buildings erected by Rai Bey Džinić in 1765 as his residence. Its architecture is representative o the period. The daughter o the last pasha sold it to the local metropolitan bishop, who converted the building into Vranje’s rst high school in 1881. The building’s ront residence, the selamluk, was reserved exclusively or men. It aces the s treet and was used by the pasha and his male entourage. The sheltered rear residence, the haremluk, was reserved or women. Today
WE RECOMMEND: –Enjoying the view o Vranje rom the Markovo Kale ortress –A visit to Vranje’s Beli Most (White Bridge) –An indulgent mud treatment at Bujanovačka Banja spa
BELGRADE
South the ront residence is a National Museum that eatures a collection o Roman excavations, medieval coins, traditional costumes and cratwork. Vranje’s pedestrian zone ends at Republic Square, where you will nd the 1878 monument honouring the liberators o Vranje. The piece is the work o sculptor Simeon Roksandić. However, the monument, which shares the unortunate destiny o the town, was demolished twice. Look closely and you will notice that the Serbian soldier eatured in the monument is missing a hand. Vran je’s residents like him just the way he is and have lovingly named him Čika Mita. Behind the monument you will nd the magnicent old Municipality Seat building. It is considered the best work o architect Petar Popović. Cross the town river and you will discover the 17th century hamam (Turkish bath). Head our kilometres north o Vranje and discover the ruins o the Markovo Kale Fortress. Many people believe the ortress is linked to Marko Kraljević, the greatest hero o Serbian epic poetry. However, all that remains o the structure are a wall and two tow-
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BELI MOST Beli Most is located close to Liberty Square in Vranje’s upper town. As stated in a plaque written in Arabic, this intricate bridge was built by Aisha to compensate or her sins and those o her parents. According to legend, however, Aisha – a Muslim who ell in love with a Serb named Stean – was accidentally killed by her ather. He consequently built the bridge to mark this tragic event. The St. Nicholas Church, Vran je’s oldest temple, is located next to the bridge. The Bagaša, a noble 14th-century amily, built this beautiul structure. along its banks protects the valley rom the harsh mountain winds, creating a constant mist, while the mineral waters here range in temperature rom 96 to 100 degrees Celsius, making this one o the hottest springs in Europe. The water in the spa is cooled to 43 degrees Celsius. Archaeological research o the site has revealed that these waters have been in use or centuries. Come experience them!
ers. Kale oers a beautiul view o Vranje. The Days o Vranje (Dani Vranja) event is the city’s most estive celebration and takes place every year in September. Explore beyond Vranje and discover the Prohor Pčinjski Monastery, which is 32 kilometres rom the city near the Macedonian border. The monastery was dedicated to Slav Prohor, who spent his ascetic days in this region. Today the old church is located northwest o the new one. Here you will nd the relics o St. Prohor and beautiul 15th-century rescoes. The main building o the monastery residence is considered one o the best examples o 18th-century olk architecture. In 1944 Macedonian communists conerred here to pronounce Macedonia the Republic o a new Democratic Federal Yugoslavia.
ACTIVITIES The hot, healing mineral waters o Vranjska Banja spa originate in the stony bed o the River Banjštica. The deciduous orest
BUJANOVAC – SIGHTS Bujanovac is a small town in the ar south o Serbia that is accessible via the highway to Skopje. The town is best known or the Bujanovačka Banja spa, which has water that’s 43 degrees Celsius and is renowned or its healing mud. The Church o St. Archangel is located in the village o Lopardinci our kilometres north o Bujanovac. Though there is no written historical data about the structure, researchers believe it was built in the 16th century. The beautiul rescoes in the naos and altar area depict scenes o important religious holidays and the suering o Christ.
52 Weekends in Serbia Publisher: National Tourism Organisation o Serbia 11000 Belgrade, Čika Ljubina 8 Tel: +381 11 6557 100 Fax: +381 11 2626 767 E-mail: o
[email protected] www.serbia.travel www.acebook.com/serbia.travel For publisher: Gordana Plamenac, CEO/Managing Director Editor: Olgica Miljković Text: Gordana Bulatović Text rened by: Branka Jikić Translated by: Ilijana Šaša, Zorana Bjeličić, Tamara Mandić Language Editor: Mark Pullen Photographs: Dragan Bosnić, Dragoljub Zamurović, Nebojša Babić, NTOS archive & Local TO: Sremski Karlovci, Kikinda, Vršac, Irig, Zlatar, Oplenac, Bajina Bašta, Gornji Milanovac and Šabac Front page design: Marijana Markoska Design: Marijana Markoska Prepress: Nina Todorović Printed by: Komazec d.o.o., Inđija Sixth edition in English, 2012 Circulation: 8.000 ISBN ISBN 978-86-6005-230-0 COBISS.SR-ID 191310604
This publication is made possible by the support o the American people through the United States Agency or International Development (USAID) and does not necessarily refect the views o USAID or the United States Government.
CIP - Каталогизација у публикацији Народна библиотека Србије, Београд 338.48(497.11)(036) BULATOVIĆ, Gordana, 196452 Weekends in Serbia / [text Gordana Bulatović ; translated by Ilijana Šaša, Zorana Bjeličić, Tamara Mandić ; photographs Dragan Bosnić, Dragoljub Zamurović, Nebojša Babić]. - 6th ed. - Belgrade : National Tourism Organisation o Serbia, 2012 (Inđija : Komazec). - [108] str. : otogr. ; 30 cm Izv. stv. nasl.: 52 vikenda u Srbiji. Podatak o autoru preuzet iz koloona. - Tiraž 8.000. ISBN 978-86-6005-230-0 a) Србија - Водичи COBISS.SR-ID 191310604
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