Serbia is a multinational country with a rich and complex history. The territory of the current state includes lands that previously belonged to the Hungarians, Turks and other peoples. Its culture was influenced by the influence of the East and West. The capital city of Belgrade, unlike many European capitals, is quiet and calm.
The houses of the cobbled streets of the old quarters are like dollhouses. The new areas with their dilapidated walls remind of Yugoslavia and military aggression by NATO. The nature of the plains and plateaus is rich in greenery and full-flowing rivers.
Tourists will be able to learn more about the events of the Middle Ages, the battles of the Slavs with the Turks, visit Orthodox churches and take a leisurely stroll through the uncrowded cozy districts of old Belgrade. Pleasant features of a vacation in Serbia can be called a large number of Russian-speaking guides and low prices. So, we will tell you what about the most interesting sights of Belgrade and which of them are must-see.
Belgrade fortress
Located in a picturesque place where the Sava River flows into the Danube. The strategically important location determined the fate of the citadel. Like the confluence of two water streams, the economic, political and cultural routes of the East and West converged here.
For the fortification hundreds of times fierce battles were fought, dozens of times its walls were partially or completely destroyed. Today it is peaceful and calm, because now it is one of the most significant historical monuments for the city.
The fortress was built 2 millennia ago from white stone, hence the name of the city. High fortress walls are adjacent to the large, cozy Kalemegdan park. This word is translated from Turkish as "battlefield".
The Turks called the stone fortification "the hill of reflections", which corresponds to the atmosphere of peace prevailing here. The name of the Kalemegdan garden was also assigned to the citadel. Within the walls of the fortress there are 12 gates, the main of which are Istanbul. Walking along the pedestrian street of Prince Mikhail with its bright shop windows, you will find yourself in Kalemegdan.
You can also get there by public transport. The entrance to the territory is free. Not only the fortress is of interest to tourists, but also several museums, operating churches, towers, statues and a Roman well. You can join the tour and learn more about the centuries-old history of this place, its myths and legends.
Residents of the capital have chosen Kalemegdan for recreation. The observation deck offers a breathtaking view of the city. On holidays, concerts and festivities are held in the park, and on weekdays you can sit in a cafe or just eat ice cream.
Kalemegdan park
Heading to the main attraction - the Kalemegdan fortress, you will not be able to ignore the magnificent park of the same name. The landscape and park zone (the oldest park in Europe) is located at the walls of the Belgrade fortress, being the end of the pedestrian street of Prince Michael. In the Ottoman era, there was a military parade ground on the site of Kalemegdan, later the garrison of the fortress was based here.
The floristic design of the territory began in the second half of the 19th century by the decision of Prince Mikhail. Improvement and expansion of the area continued until 1931. The territory covers Small Kalemegdan and the Upper City. Today Kalemegdan is the main city park and a favorite walking place for citizens and tourists.
The beauty of the alleys of age-old trees, gazebos, lawns and lawns is complemented by architectural structures and sculptures. The monument "Gratitude to France" is installed here, symbolizing the gratitude of the Serbian people for their help during the 1st World War. Among the green islets are the buildings of the Military Museum and the Museum of Nature.
Aesthetes are given the opportunity to visit the Art Gallery "Zvieta Zuzorich". Children's attention is focused on the many children's attractions and the zoo. Many climb to the observation deck of the Upper Town to admire the irresistible beauty of the panorama at the confluence of the Sava and Danube - two rivers.
Ruzica Church
A truly sacred object for Serbs - the ancient temple of the Assumption of the Virgin (Ruzica), according to the manuscript, was built in the 13th century. Orthodox shrines were kept in the church: the icon of the Mother of God and the relics of St. Paraskeva Friday. Having conquered Serbia, the Turks converted Ruzica (Rosette) into a mosque and later destroyed it. The shrine was "resurrected" in 1867 under the leadership of Prince Obrenovich.
After the destruction of 2 wars, Ruzica was rebuilt by the whole world. The soldiers of the Serbian army took an active part in the moments of respite from the fighting. The church is rightly considered a historical monument and a symbol of the patriotism of the Serbian people.
Repeated reconstructions did not spoil the pristine view of Ruzica. Even today it gives the impression of an ancient temple. The ivy-covered stone walls reinforce the impression of the shrine's authenticity. Visitors see today a unique chandelier - a man-made masterpiece created from cartridges, cartridge cases, pistol and rifle parts by the hands of soldiers.
Everyone admires the graceful gilded carving that surrounds the iconostasis (by Todorovich). The true decoration of the church is the highly artistic painting "Sermon on the Mount of Christ", which is "listened to" by royal persons. A visit to a religious monument leaves a deep impression.
Republic Square
The Central Republic Square was organized in 1866 after the demolition of the Istanbul Gate (the road to Istanbul). They became a symbol of Ottoman cruelty for the Serbs - before them the Turks carried out terrible executions, impaling the guilty ones. After the liberation, the Serbs rushed to destroy the traces of Ottoman tyranny.
Today, Republic Square, surrounded by architectural masterpieces, attracts the attention of tourists. The pulse of life in the Serbian capital beats here, and masses of people flock here. The square is incredibly beautiful, especially in the evening, illuminated by the mysterious light of lanterns. Here is the National Theater, which occupies a magnificent building, built in 1922. A huge collection of various art objects can be seen in the National Museum.
Among the exhibits is the world's largest collection of Impressionist paintings. In front of the museum building there is a bronze monument to the liberator of Serbia - Prince Mikhail Obrenovic. The townspeople come here for dates and friendly meetings. The House of the Press, the Staklenac department store, and the City Cafe enjoy the attention of tourists. Instead of a monument to Soviet soldiers transferred to the cemetery, a Millennium clock has been installed on the square, which arouses the interest of the public.
Monument to Mikhail Obrenovich
The equestrian sculpture of the greatest Serbian ruler has the status of a historical and cultural monument of importance to the state. This is not just a tribute of gratitude to the savior of the nation, but a symbol of the complete liberation of Serbia from the Turks. The opening of the monument in December 1882 was a grandiose event not only in Belgrade, but in the country.
The creator of the monument, the Italian sculptor Pazzi, received a high award - the Order of the Cross of Tacus, 2nd degree. Prince Obrenovic earned honor as a great ruler-diplomat who drove the Turks out of Serbian cities without bloodshed. Their names are marked on the pedestal on which the prince sits majestically.
The index finger of the prince's right hand is directed towards Constantinople (Istanbul). An eloquent gesture means - the Turks "get out of Serbia". The bronze monument consists of 3 components: a base, a pedestal and an equestrian sculpture. Michael holds the reins in his left hand - the embodiment of strong government.
All sides of the pedestal are decorated with symbolic bas-reliefs glorifying the heroism of the Serbs and the Obrenovic dynasty.The side friezes are decorated with garlands of bronze, on which the names of the liberated cities are inscribed in gold. The bas-relief of the obverse depicts the composition "Prince Milos in Takovo".
Bridge over Ada
The grandiose crossing of the Sava River, which connects the old and new parts of the city, is a magnificent sight. The bridge is especially beautiful in the evening, illuminated by a kaleidoscope of lights. It is clearly visible not only from the Kalemegdan fortress, but also from other points of the city. This is the second tallest cable-stayed structure in Belgrade, connecting the communities of Chukarica and Novi Belgrade. It passes over the river. Savoy and the eastern end of the Ada Peninsula, being the first bridge built in the last 40 years.
Powerful steel cables fanning around the pillars of the automobile bridge create the impression of an airy crossing. But at the same time, this 4-span structure is distinguished by a large margin of safety and power. There are many road junctions on the wide bridge bed, allowing a large flow of vehicles to pass through. There are no pedestrian paths on it. The bridge over Ada undoubtedly adorned the Sava River, giving it an urban picturesqueness. It can be admired from afar or up close while cruising along the river.
Zoo
At the walls of the Belgrade Fortress, there is a spacious zoo with the self-explanatory name "Park of Good Hope" During its history, it was subjected to shelling three times: twice in World War II and in 1999 during the armed conflict between NATO and Yugoslavia. In memory of those days, the zoo received its bright name, and its management seeks to keep pets in the most comfortable conditions.
The zoo is home to over 2 thousand individuals of 270 species of animals and birds. At the same time, they are looked after properly: the freedom of pets is practically unlimited, and their cleanliness is pleasantly surprised. Birds walk along the paths of the zoo. In a special pavilion you can play with lambs, kids and others.
The zoo is distinguished from the rest by several of its attractions. Since 1986, special attention has been paid to albinos. Animals with white color are collected all over the world as a symbol of the "white city". In the year of the last shelling, a baby elephant was born in the zoological garden. He was given the nickname Rambouillet after a city in France where peace talks were held regarding the situation in Kosovo.
To avoid confusion, carry local currency cash and do not give food to animals. After the death of the giraffe due to the fault of visitors, the size of the fine for feeding the animals was greatly increased.
Palace of Princess Ljubica
How do you imagine a palace for a princess? In fairy tales, it is described as a tall castle, surrounded by two-meter walls. But in life, everything is a little different. One of the most beautiful buildings in the old town is the palace of the princess (also called princess) Lubica.
A low-rise white house was erected in 1830 by order of Duke Milos Obrenovic on the site of their old dwelling. The new building has 3 floors, one of them is basement. On the second floor, next to the princess's chambers, there was a hammam. During its two-century history, the palace has changed several purposes.
At different times, it housed a lyceum, a court, a boarding school for the deaf and dumb, various museums. At the end of the 20th century, the building was declared a cultural monument and restored. Now the former residence of the wife of Prince Milos is part of the Museum of the capital of Serbia. The palace is valuable because its architecture, layout and interior decoration are an excellent example of the combination of Eastern and European culture of the 19th century.
The collection of the museum consists of pieces of furniture and art, personal belongings of the princess. There are excursions with the telling name "Coffee with Princess Lyubitsa". The curators of the museum will not only tell the history of the palace and the peculiarities of the life of the ruling family, but will also treat you to strong Turkish coffee with Turkish delight.
In the basement, educational lectures on cultural and historical topics and creative evenings are periodically held. The cultural monument is located in the old part of the city not far from the Kalemegdan fortress. The ticket price will be 200 Serbian dinars. There are discounts for students.
Museum working hours: from 9.00 to 18.00. Day off: Monday. It is allowed to photograph the exhibition without using a flash.
Ada Tsiganliya
This heavenly place on the outskirts of the city, so beloved by the townspeople, can be called a local "bounty". The island of Ada, transformed into an accessible peninsula by 2 bulk dams, is the most popular leisure facility for Belgrade residents. But tourists do not ignore it either. It is especially crowded here in the warm season, when you can splash in the river or in Lake Hell, play sports, have a picnic, etc.
The name of the island is of Celtic origin "signalia", meaning underwater lands. The word "hell" was fixed from the Turkish "island" - Ada Tsiganliya. This corner of rich flora and fauna is famous for its ecology, healing microclimate. Serbian princes at the beginning of the 19th century. rated this place as the best for relaxation and recovery.
Clean water, fresh air, a diverse animal world attracted the Serbian nobility here. In 1967, dams were built here, which formed a lake. Later, a suspension bridge was made, which became a ferry between 2 urban areas. The beach on the shore of the lake is a favorite vacation spot for local residents. The lake hosts national and international competitions in water sports: water skiing, polo, surfing, diving.
Many sports grounds allow you to play tennis, volleyball, football, golf, etc. There is a circular bicycle track, along which roller skaters can also ride. The beautiful picnic area is equipped with tables and benches, grill grates, drinking fountains. There is a cafe where you can buy ready-made dishes of the national cuisine.
Aeronautics Museum
While at the airport. Nikola Tesla, you involuntarily pay attention to a modern building made of glass and concrete with a massive round dome. It houses the Aeronautics Museum, which is listed as the best institution in the field of aeronautics. Founded in 1957 by the Yugoslav Air Defense and Air Force, the institution over the years has accumulated a large collection of exhibits illustrating the development of aeronautics for over a century.
Samples of military and civil aircraft, 200 different aircraft, aircraft missiles, engines. Exhibits of aircraft of the 1941-45 war period, which took part in the battles. There are samples of modern flying objects. A real rarity is the Fiat G-50, an Italian fighter that has survived in a single copy. No less valuable exhibits are an analogue of I. Saric's aircraft (1910), the first military aircraft of Serbia Olui-11, etc. There is also Russian aircraft here: MiG-21, Yak-3 fighter, etc.
National Museum of Serbia
The main museum institution of the country has a place in a majestic building located on pl. Republic. The ceremonial facade of the museum building shines with fresh colors after 15 years of reconstruction. Glass domes appeared on the roof. Reconstruction also affected the interior of the 50s of the last century, which are now equipped at a modern level.
Founded in 1844, the museum was transferred here in 1952, and the collections that were increasing every year required re-equipment. Today the funds of the institution have more than 400 thousand exhibits. They are located on 3 floors, occupying an area of 5 thousand square meters. Permanent exhibitions showcase art from the Paleolithic era to the late 20th century.
The core of the museum collection is made up of paintings and prints by famous artists from the world and Europe. Here you can see French painting (250 paintings of the 16th-20th centuries), Italian (230 paintings of the 16th-18th centuries), Yugoslavian (6,000 works). There are small collections of works by artists from Germany, Austria, England, America, Russia, Austria.Artistic masterpieces of famous masters: Cezanne, Degas, Renoir, Rubens, Titian, Caravaggio, Modigliani and many others excite the imagination of visitors.
Church of St. Sava
In the capital of Serbia, white is the unofficial symbol of the city. On the Vracar hill in the center of the Serbian capital rises the majestic temple of St. Sava of Serbia, built of white marble. According to Christian canons, the sanctuary is not a cathedral, but due to the impressive size of the temple, this name was fixed among the people.
This is one of the largest Orthodox buildings in the world. Its height is 82 meters, the bath is crowned with 18 crosses, 49 bells fit in the bell tower. Inside the room, 10 thousand believers can be simultaneously, the choir is designed for 800 singers.
The attraction does not have a centuries-old history, but a monument was erected at the site of the burning of the relics of St. Sava, based on the prototype of the St. Sophia Cathedral in Constantinople. The planning of the building began in 1894, and the "first brick" was laid only 40 years later. Since 2004, the temple has been considered open to parishioners; the interior decoration has not yet been completed.
It is worth visiting for the huge and amazing mosaic of Jesus Christ located under the central dome. Finding the Cathedral of St. Sava will not be difficult. It is located in the center on a hill and majestically rises above the city. There is a cozy park around the temple, and the National Library of Serbia is located nearby.
Nikola Tesla Museum
Each nation has its own heroes. The Serbs are proud of their great compatriot, the scientist, whose works have had a colossal significance in the development of science. The only official museum of Nikola Tesla is located in a small mansion. Even if you have no idea who this person was and why he is considered a great physicist, be sure to visit the museum.
Every hour there is an excursion here, the first part of which consists of a short video and a short story by the guide, the second part is much more interesting for the demonstration of the experiments once conducted by the inventor.
During the experiments, everyone can feel like a Jedi and an illusionist. The glowing "sword" and lightning from touching the Tesla coil are real phenomena that were later shown in films and computer games. In addition to the display of various experimental equipment, the exhibition has a collection of personal belongings and original documents belonging to Nikola Tesla. Among other exhibits, there is an urn with the ashes of a scientist.
Museum working hours: from 10.00 to 18.00 from Tuesday to Sunday.
Located in the central part of the city at the address: st. Krunska, 51.
House of Flowers
The House of Flowers is indirectly related to floristry, in fact it is a mausoleum in which the bodies of the former leader of Yugoslavia Josip Broz Tito and his last wife are buried. The memorial complex was originally a greenhouse at the marshal's residence. In his free time from government activities, Tito loved to plant flowers and take care of the garden.
Now in the pavilions there is silence and tranquility, trees grow, there are fancy statues. You will not find an open coffin with an embalmed body, only a memorial plate. The tomb houses a small museum of Josip Tito. His collection includes some personal items and numerous gifts received by the former president from officials.
The mausoleum is often not crowded. On the birthday of the father of the people on May 25 and on the day of his death on May 4, the family, friends and comrades of Josip Broz Tito visit the memorial complex. The House of Flowers is located on the outskirts of the city. The Museum of the History of Yugoslavia is located nearby. You can get to them by trolleybuses on routes 40 and 41.
Opening hours: from 10.00 to 18.00. Day off: Monday.
Skadarlija quarter
Visiting the museums, having seen enough of the various sights of the capital of Serbia, it is pleasant to stroll along a quiet street, sit in a cozy restaurant. In Belgrade, its old part, there is a small district of Skardalia, which is considered bohemian, and travelers compare it with Parisian Montmartre, Odessa Deribasovskaya, with Moscow's Old Arbat.
The street with a stone pavement is deserted during the day. Towards evening, street artists, musicians appear here, souvenirs and trinkets are sold from stalls. There are antique shops in Skardalija, where you can immerse yourself in the culture of the Serbs. The oldest restaurants in the city are also located here. With live music in a cozy atmosphere, you will get acquainted with national cuisine, hearty and varied.
Initially, the area was inhabited by people of creative professions, they were attracted by inexpensive apartments and delicious food in neighboring cafes. Writers, poets, actors and dancers have created an atmosphere of constant celebration in the quarter. This light mood is still in the air.
The brick walls of the low houses are painted like canvases and decorated with fresh flowers. The Skardalia Quarter is easy to find in the Stari Grad community near the Republic Square. Tourists are advised to carry cash Serbian dinars in case you suddenly decide to buy some souvenirs or have dinner. Girls should not wear high-heeled shoes or thin stiletto heels.
Gardosh Hill and Millennium Tower
In order to look at the city from above, you do not need to jump with a parachute or fly in a helicopter, just go up to the observation deck of the Millennium Tower (also called the Yanko Tower), which rises on the Gardos Hill in the ancient Zemun district. The building is 36 meters high, built in the 19th century, when this land was part of Austria-Hungary.
The state authorities erected a monument as a symbol of the millennium of the Hungarian settlement on the banks of the Danube. This is where the name of the tower comes from. It makes sense to climb the Gardos Hill not only for the sake of the city panorama. A walk to the elevation along Zemun will be a pleasant pastime both in the morning and in the evening. The tower is open around the clock and admission is free. For 15-20 euros, you can join a tour with a Russian-speaking guide.
The old quarters can be reached by buses from the city center. Routes 704, 706 and 707 lead here. The closest stop to the tower is Zemun pochta, but you can get off earlier and walk along narrow, winding pavements past toy houses to the stairs on Stara Visoka street. Climbing it, you will reach the Millennium Tower.
On the way up the hill, you will come across several small churches that add color to the sleeping area, which has preserved the best traditions of Europe. A road also leads to the hill from the picturesque wide riverbed of the Danube, along which the city embankment with an alley, benches and mesmerizing views stretches.
Not far from it there are several small restaurants and cafes that serve delicious home-style meals. Look out for fresh fish from local rivers on the menu.
Aval TV tower
The Millennium Tower is an authentic monument of Slavic culture, but there is a more modern high-rise building that majestically rushes into the sky of the capital - the Aval TV Tower. The attraction is of interest to tourists for several reasons.
First, there are no buildings above it on the Balkan Peninsula.
Secondly, in the whole world there are only a few buildings for which the base is an equilateral triangle. Thirdly, the tower was completely destroyed during the military conflict with NATO in 1999. It has been completely restored and opened to the public in 2010.
The Aval TV tower is located outside the city on Mount Avala. There are 3 monuments from different times erected next to it. You can get from the capital to the place by regular buses No. 401, 403 and 405. In summer on weekends, an additional route No. 400 is launched. The height of the TV tower reaches 205 meters, and the exit to the site is at a distance of 119 meters from the ground.
The wind is blowing here and it is quite cool, so sitting at the cafe with a mug of coffee or hot chocolate will be more pleasant to watch the panorama that opens up. Aval TV tower meets its visitors every day from 9.00 to 20.00.
Skyscraper Genex
The second tallest building in the Serbian capital is the Genex skyscraper, also known as the "Western Gate of Belgrade". Its highest point is 140 meters. The whimsical, futuristic structure was designed and erected in 1977, when the architecture was dominated by Art Nouveau and Brutalism. The skyscraper consists of 2 buildings of 35 floors, connected from above by a two-story bridge with a revolving turret.
There is a restaurant inside this structure. Be sure to dine there if you are not afraid of heights. The windows of the institution offer a fascinating view of the western part of the city. Due to its originality, the complex is perhaps the most memorable in the whole of Eastern Europe.
Some publications include it in dozens of the most unusual skyscrapers in the world. The house got its unofficial name because of the "Genex" company, which occupies one half of the skyscraper. To get to the place, take buses No. 65, 74.
Tashmaidan Park
The landscape and park zone located in the city center occupies the territory of former quarries, as evidenced by its name. "Tashmaidan" is translated as "stone field". In the quarries, the ancient Romans mined stone for construction, and the Ottomans extracted saltpeter from the mines. For more than 50 years (1828-86) there was a cemetery here.
And during World War II, the labyrinths of quarries served as bomb shelters and warehouses for the Nazis. It was decided to turn the gloomy place Tashmaidan into a beautiful park in 1950. There are sacred churches in the park area, which includes the former quarries. As a result of the reconstruction (2010-11), the park became prettier, acquired a sports and entertainment center, children's attractions and new monuments.
In the very center rises the majestic Church of St. Mark, within the walls of which the ashes of King Dusan, the royal couple Obrenovici, and the patriarch of Serbian Herman are buried. General Wrangel rests in the neighboring Church of the Holy Trinity. There are cultural and historical monuments in the park area. One of them is dedicated to the innocent children who died during the air raids of Belgrade by NATO troops in 1999.
A monument to Heydar Aliyev, who provided financial assistance in the reconstruction, was recently erected. There are monuments to Serbian writers and literary hero Don Quixote. The landscape and floristic beauty of the territory is in harmony with the architectural attractiveness of the objects.
St. Mark's Church
Walking along the eastern side of Tashmaidan Park, it is impossible not to notice the majestic structure with arched spans, columns and a high tower above the central portal. This is the Church of St. Mark, erected on the site of the former wooden church in the 30s of the last century. The architectural appearance of the sanctuary shows features of the Serbian-Byzantine style.
The design of the building, developed by the architects and teachers Peter and Kristić, is largely borrowed from the architecture of the Gracanica monastery. It was here, in the old church, that the agreement on the recognition of Serbian autonomy was signed. Therefore, a new temple was erected in this place. The church was severely damaged by NATO bombing in the 1990s. It was carefully restored in 2007 not only as a religious object, but also as a monument to historical figures.
The ashes of Tsar Dushan, the Obrenovich royal couple, Patriarch Herman were brought here. Above the entrance is a mosaic of St. Stamp revered in Serbia. The marble iconostasis and altar, made during the last reconstruction of the 90s, are impressive. A large collection of icons (13-19 centuries) is an invaluable property of the temple. The general view of the interior interiors does not impress with luxury and splendor, everything looks rather modest. But here you can feel a high spirituality that brings peace.
Topchider Park
The Serbian capital has a historic site where an Ottoman artillery camp was located in the 16th century. Its name is almost literally translated: "treadmill" - from Turkish means gunner, "der" from Persian - valley. Later, the military parade ground was transformed into a recreation area for the capital's pasha. After the expulsion of the Turks, the paradise was inherited by Milos Obrenovic.
By his order, a palace was built here, the entire territory was completely ennobled, decorating it with flower beds, paths, planting many trees. Today one cannot but admire this green "Eden". Tents of willows, spreading crowns of oaks, plane trees, firs, maples overshadow cozy paths and green lawns. A giant plane tree, the oldest in Europe, has grown in front of Obrenović's palace. 180 years ago, he was planted here by a French gardener at the request of the prince.
Now the palace houses the museum of the 1st and 2nd liberation uprisings against the Turks. The beautiful Church of Peter and Paul stands next to the palace building. The monuments of the 19th century attract attention - the Obelisk in honor of Prince Milos, the sculpture of Ceres the Zhetelitsa and the bust of Archibald Reiss, a Swiss publicist who described the crimes of the military on the territory of Serbia in 2014.
Old palace
As in many European capitals, the city administration of Belgrade is housed in one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. In fact, this is an architectural masterpiece and a historical monument of national importance - the Old Palace. It was built for the representatives of the Serbian dynasty Obrenovici (1882-84) as an unsurpassed example of a royal residence.
The building of classical architecture of the 19th century, designed in gray tones, looks majestic and graceful. It was not affected by significant wartime damage. The palace has retained its original appearance, with the exception of some minor changes during the reconstruction. The decoration of the interior halls was unusually luxurious and rich.
The interiors of several rooms shine in gold and silver. But these days, only representatives of foreign delegations, guests of honor and participants in official receptions can get inside. The rest can admire the external beauty of the Old Palace and the luxurious flower beds in front of it.
New palace
Not far from the Old Palace is the building of the New Palace, which is not inferior in size and grandeur to its neighbor. It was built (1911-22) on the site of the palace of Mikhail Obrenovich destroyed by the war as the residence of King A. Karageorgievich. In addition to the offices of the royals, the residence also contained living quarters and utility rooms. There was a large library, Japanese and English salons were opened.
After 10 years of using the new palace by him in 1933, the king ordered to give the building to the museum of Prince Paul. After 15 years, the Parliament of Serbia was located here, then the government (Executive Chamber) was located in it. Today, the New Palace serves as the residence of the Serbian President. The austere style of the academic architecture of the building is complemented by elements of the Baroque and Renaissance, which add to the visual appeal. The palace can only be viewed from the outside.
White palace
Serbian kings had 4 palaces at their disposal. Two of them were built on the Dedinje hill in the 30s of the 20th century: this palace and park complex was intended for the three sons of King Alexander I. in the Adriatic Sea.
With its Serbian-Byzantine architecture, the building resembles the Kremlin chambers of the Russian tsars. The building is surrounded by a magnificent park. The interior design of the palace, executed in the Baroque-Renaissance style, makes an irresistible impression. The feeling of being in an ethnographic museum is created. Here you can see tapestries by French masters of the 17th-18th centuries, furniture of different eras and styles.
Interior ceilings are painted with subjects of Serbian folklore, copies of paintings from Solochan and Decani, included in the UNESCO list. The main hall of the White Palace is marked by a portrait of King Alexander. It was made by the famous Serb painter Jovanovic. The hall also contains paintings by French painters of the 17th century. The dining room is decorated in an English spirit and is served with Sevres porcelain from France. The ceremonial large and small rooms are furnished with objects from the era of Louis XV, illuminated by Venetian chandeliers.
Evremovac
The botanical garden, covering an area of 5 thousand hectares, was formed from a large greenhouse, organized at the end of the 19th century. Even then, the greenhouse was considered the most voluminous greenhouse in the center of Europe. Today it covers an area of 500 square meters, with lush tropical and subtropical vegetation. In recent years, the garden has been under the tutelage of the Faculty of Biology of the University of Belgrade, therefore, the number of flora specimens from different parts of the world (300 species) is increasing in it every year.
An example of a progressive approach to the development of an important object is the decoration of the Japanese Garden (2004). This is an example of a classic Japanese-style garden, where artificial hills, islets, and streams are created. There are mosses, herbaceous flora, cozy gazebos are entwined with garlands of climbing plants.
All corners of the garden are undergoing landscape changes, admiring beauty and valuable content. Glades of wild plants, cultivated plants, grassy lawns, various shrubs, exotic trees - there is something to be surprised at.
Modern Art Museum
In a picturesque place where the Sava and Danube rivers merge, there is a building of unusual architecture, in the form of a crystal. It was specially built for the Museum of Modern Art by the architects Antich and Raspopovich.
The architectural "crystal" is surrounded by original sculptures by masters of Yugoslavia. The idea of organizing such an institution arose in 1958, and the construction and decoration of the building continued for another 7 years. In 1965 the council of the art gallery gave its official name and the Museum received its first visitors. Now the museum fund has collected more than 30 thousand items of contemporary art.
Works by Yugoslav masters of different periods are widely represented. Exhibitions are regularly held to introduce the public to the new names of Serbian artists and sculptors. New talents are being discovered, and the country's contemporary art is developing. Paintings by other European artists are exhibited here: Warhol, Miro, etc.
Cathedral of Saint Michael
An iconic religious institution - the Orthodox Cathedral of St. Michael is located opposite the building of the Serbian Patriarchate. And this is no coincidence - the cathedral keeps within its walls the centuries-old history of Christianity associated with the names of prominent clergy and kings. The solid building, built in the style of late classicism and decorated with baroque elements, took 8 years to build (1837-45).
The gray facade is decorated with bright mosaic images of the Mother of God, the Archangels Michael and Gabriel, and the Holy Trinity. Prince Milan Obrenovich and King Peter I Karageorgievich were crowned here. The relics of King Urosh (1276-31), who was recognized as a saint, found their shelter in the cathedral. The cathedral crypt is the burial place of the metropolitans, patriarchs and royals of Obrenovich.
The interior of the temple impresses with its exquisite decoration. The carved gilded iconostasis created by the sculptor D. Petrovich is fascinating. One cannot but like the wall paintings and icons of the Serbian artist D. Avramovich. A museum of the Orthodox Church of Serbia has been opened at the temple.
National Theater
One of the most luxurious buildings on pl. The republic belongs to the main theater of the state. The magnificent structure, which outwardly resembled the Teatro alla Scala, shone with pompous decoration. After reconstruction, due to military destruction, the facades have lost a significant part of the magnificent decor, but in general, the appearance of the building has retained its extraordinary attractiveness. The opening of the National Theater was marked by the staging of the play "Georgy Brankovich".
Various concerts and charity balls were held here, cultural life was in full swing. When Serbia was part of Yugoslavia, the theater was given the status of the Yugoslav National Theater, with the best acting troupe in the country. Now there are 3 collectives working in it: ballet, drama and opera troupes. The performances take place on the Main Stage (700 seats) and Rashi Plaovich (300 seats).
A. Pavlova, T. Karsavina, L. Novikova and other stars of world ballet shone on them in the ballet performances "Giselle", "Swan Lake", "The Nutcracker". In different years, the unique voices of opera celebrities sounded here: Callas, Chaliapin, Obraztsova, Vishnevskaya. Even during the attacks by NATO aircraft, the artists gave performances.
Petkovic Automobile Museum
The building of historical significance - a public garage (1926) houses a unique vehicle fleet of 100 vintage cars. On the territory adjacent to it, there is a line of old cars awaiting restoration. Inside, visitors will find a kaleidoscopic array of cars from different eras. They can be used to trace the development path of the global automotive industry.
A unique private collection of cars belongs to the famous cultural figure of Serbia Bratislav Petkovic. He began to get involved in collecting cars at the age of 17. It is impossible to list all the brands of vintage cars. Here are samples from the late 19th century to the 80s of the 20th century. The oldest car, a French-made racing tricycle from 1897, flaunts in the center.
Next to him is an American Ford Pilot 1903. There is a 1908 Charron car produced by a French company that produced the first armored cars. The owner of this exhibit was the royal family. A sample of FordT ("Iron Lizzie") is presented, the mass production of which (1908-27) "transplanted" America onto wheels. A visit to this museum is a fascinating sight not only for motorists, but also for ordinary people.
Rakovica monastery
The monastery of the same name is located in the village of Rakovica, which has now become a district of Belgrade. It was founded during the reign of the monarchs Dragutin and Milutin (16th century) in honor of the holy archangels Michael and Gabriel. Repeatedly the monastery buildings were dilapidated, destroyed, but rebuilt again.
Peter I gave great support to the monks in this as a token of gratitude for their assistance in concluding amicable agreements between Russia and Turkey. The main building of Rakovica, with its Moravian architectural façade, looks very picturesque. This type of church has been preserved since 1862. The redecoration of the following years practically did not change it.
The entire territory of the monastery gives the impression of being well-groomed and attractive. Neat lawns, many flowers, cypresses, a gazebo testify to the love for the monastery. The interior content and design is not devoid of beauty. The iconostasis is highly artistically decorated, the decoration of which was the work of the famous painter-monk Momchilovich.
An impressive collection of priceless works of art are kept in the luxurious sacristy. Rakovica is the burial place of one of the Obrenovic kings, General Blaznavec, Serbian forefathers - Paul and Dmitry.
