The heart of Belgrade has been densely populated for over 2000 years, with the life of the city unfolding from Kalemegdan, along Knez Mihailova Street, to Republic Square under various rulers. Kalemegdan Fortress, perched above the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, bears witness to the city’s tumultuous history.
During our walk, we’ll hear tales from the Celtic, Roman, Byzantine, Serbian, Hungarian, Turkish, and Austrian periods of Belgrade. The Roman legions first erected walls from the “white” blocks of Tašmajdan, which led the Slavs to name the city Beograd – the White City. Even if you’ve traversed Kalemegdan a hundred times, this tour will reveal stories you’ve likely never heard before, offering new surprises and insights.
Our small walking Belgrade tour starts at Studentski Trg (in front of the Captain Mišin Building – the Rectorate of the University of Belgrade). Our first stop will delve into the history of the Roman baths located on Studentski Trg. We continue through Kalemegdan Park and approach the fortress. We will enter through Zindan Gate, one of the main entrances into the city. Here, we’ll learn about the Church of Ružica, whose dome emerged from the Kalemegdan ramparts in 1867 after the withdrawal of the Turkish army. As we pass through Despot’s Gate, we enter the Upper Town, where the fully restored tower now houses the observatory of Astronomical Society. After that, we will get acquainted with the Turkish episode of Belgrade's past and the fate of Damad ali pase after the defeat by the Austrian prince Eugene of Savoy in 1718. Before viewing the confluence of the Sava into the Danube, we’ll pass by the visible remnants of a Serbian medieval entrance to the royal complex, and learn the history behind the monument of The Victor. This nude male figure with an eagle and sword has a story connected to a victory many visitors and locals alike are unaware of, including a humorous anecdote related to the statue.
We’ll also explore the so-called Roman Well, which is neither Roman nor a well, and hear its story before proceeding to King’s Gate. As we stroll with a beautiful view of New Belgrade, we’ll pass by the French Embassy and reach the Belgrade Cathedral Church dedicated to Archangel Michael. Near the church stands the beautiful residence of Princess Ljubica, built in the 1830s. This residence served dual purposes: as a residential space for the ruling family and a state building for diplomatic receptions.
Our tour ends back at Republic Square, where we’ll discuss the National Museum and the National Theatre. A final tale about the central monument to Prince Mihailo, who still points to cities newly freed from the Turks, whose keys he received, will round off our tour. This small 3-hour tour explores Belgrade’s vibrant neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and hidden gems beyond the beaten paths.
