Kalemegdan Fortress 1
Kalemegdanska tvrđava
Dominating the confluence of the Sava and Danube
rivers, the Kalemegdan Fortress (kale meaning
“fortress” and meydan meaning “field”) was one
of the most fought-over strategic points in South
Eastern Europe. It was first settled by the Celts,
then refortified by Serbia’s medieval rulers and
expanded during the Ottoman and Austrian occu-
pations, evolving into an extensive complex of
buildings blending various architectural styles.
Today, it is Belgrade’s most popular park, offering
fine views of the Danube from its bastions.
550 SOUTH EASTERN EUROPE
For hotels and restaurants in this region see pp563–4 and p565
STAR SIGHTS. The Victor
. Chapel of Sveta Petka
. Zindan Gate
. The Victor
One of the best-
known works by
the Croat sculptor
Ivan Meštrović
(see p491), The
Victor (Pobednik)
was erected in 1928
to honour the tenth
anni versary of the
end of World War I.
Military Museum
Built in 1929, the Military Museum resembles
a medieval fortress. Tanks, cannons and World
War II machinery are on display.Nebojša Kula
Also known as the
“daredevil tower”,
this 15th-century
hexagonal structure
was used as a
dungeon under
the Ottomans.Emperor Karl VI Gate, a triumphal
arch, was built by the Austrians
to celebrate the capture of
Belgrade in 1718.Nebojša Kula