Did you know that there is a true fairytale-like castle in Serbia? It’s known as the Golubac fortress.
Try to imagine castle towers on the bank of the Danube that you can discern from afar. A paved path will take you closer while the sun reflects on the surface of this great European river. And then the magical castle emerges before you. The first thing on your mind is – Disney and Sleeping Beauty!
GOLUBAC FORTRESS SERBIA
Legend says that once upon a time, there was an Ottoman general who wanted to marry a local Serbian princess. After she said no, the general thought of ways to punish her. Finally, he decided to imprison the princess in one of the towers of Golubac fortress. The tower is also known as the Hat Tower. The princess was isolated and the only living souls she saw were pigeons. She soon made friends with them and shared her food rations. After a while, the Ottoman general decided to move the princess to an even more isolated deserted rock of Baba-kaj across the river. Given that she was deprived of food, she was bound to suffer and starve. That is when her pigeon friend came to rescue and brought her food.
And one other thing: Serbian word for a pigeon is – ‘golub’.
PLACES TO VISIT IN SERBIA
Golubac fortress is among the most popular places to visit in Serbia. Its structure and position are just mesmerizing for visitors. And here are a few historical facts.
According to the style of the Golubac fortress architecture, it is assumed that it was built at the time when king Dragutin ruled Serbia in the 13th century. Nevertheless, nobody knows who built this imposing structure, no data were saved. Historians know though that due to constant battles in this area between Serbs, Hungarians, and Ottomans throughout centuries, the Golubac fortress was often conquered and looted. This medieval castle is now a part of the Đerdap National Park and the natural reserve of Golubac.
GOLUBAC FORTRESS FROM BELGRADE
It’s easy to get from Belgrade to Golubac fortress given that it’s only 129 km away. The entrance fee is more than affordable and visitors can have a snack or coffee at the complex.
The river Danube was always an interesting route for invaders due to its strategic importance. That is why there are numerous fortifications along the river in this part of Serbia. One of them is the Ram fortress situated less than 30 km from Golubac. This 15th-century fort occupies a steep slope of the river bank. Even though it was built by Ottoman sultan Bayezid II, artifacts of much earlier, pre-Roman habitation of the Celts were found here, along with the entire Roman mausoleum.
LEPENSKI VIR SERBIA
Less than 40 km from Golubac, there lies another site that is probably the most important for the whole area. The archaeological site of Lepenski Vir Serbia was discovered in 1965, bringing the story to life about the intensive populated place where people lived more than – 8,000 years ago!
Numerous finds such as necropolis, fireplaces, famous fish-like sculptures, and tools, were excavated. They are now displayed at the Lepenski Vir museum. This is one fascinating site that tells a story about the early European inhabitants, their customs, way of life, and idols.
The whole Đerdap area, named after a dam built in the 1970s, is also rich in structures and artifacts of Ancient Rome. But it’s not just history that will allure you to the Danube. There are a lot of beautiful places along the river to refresh and have a meal – with some breathtaking views.
Check out the article:
Here is what New York Times wrote about Lepenski Vir.
