symbol of resistance – kalemegdan fortress
Story: Kalemegdan, also known as the Belgrade Fortress, is center to Belgrade’s history, culture, and life. It dates back to the 4th century, and since then it has been destroyed and rebuilt countless times. The ground here has witnessed numerous battles at times being the place of a final stand, a rallying point to push out foreign invaders, and finally a scene of treaties ending centuries of conflict between Serbs and Turks. The monuments, walls, inscriptions, and buildings all tell a story of a city and people known for their resistance.
Vibe: Today, Kalemegdan remains a prominent South Europe fortress, but it is also a place to rest and relax. It’s a great place to take a stroll while taking in a historical scene of great significance. There are lots of vendors in case you want to pick up a token to remember the city. There’s also a nice little train ride that moves throughout the park area. The park is larger than the actual fortress as it contains a play area with carnivalesque rides and the Belgrade Zoo. The fortress is free and everything else is extremely affordable. Well worth the investment of time and money.
Recommendations: Take the time to walk around the fortress and hit up the zoo. Both are good for meandering. Explore the fortress area at night for some spectacular views of the bridges and across the Sava River of New Belgrade. Explore a little and you might find a little dirt path that will take you further for the best view possible. Not many people get here so have some fun finding it.
Notes: On a hot day, the shade of the park is refreshing. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants across the street on Knez Mihailova. Look for the “Question Mark” for a good taste of traditional Serbian fare, and an even better story. Enjoy the area. Explore. Relax.
Place: Old Belgrade on the confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers. It’s off the 2 tram which will take you all over Old Town. Can’t really give an address for this place.
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