Golubac Fortress – An Impressive Medieval Stronghold in Serbia
Golubac Fortress, perched atop a rocky ridge in Serbia, is a remarkable medieval stronghold that has seen many wars. This imposing fortress is renowned for its majestic walls and towers, and its strategic placement on the River Danube. It’s no wonder that it has become an iconic symbol of Serbia’s rich cultural heritage.
History of Golubac Fortress
The earliest records of Golubac Fortress date back to the 14th century, although it’s believed that it was built during the Iron Age. It was constructed by the Serbian King Stefan Milutin as a defence against the Ottoman Empire. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the fortress was attacked and captured multiple times. In the late 18th century, the fortifications were largely destroyed and abandoned.
In the early 19th century, the fortress was restored and used as a military base. It was then used as a prison during World War II and was eventually abandoned again in the 1950s. Today, the fortress is a popular tourist destination and has been declared a Monument of Culture of Exceptional Importance by the Republic of Serbia.
What to See at Golubac Fortress
Golubac Fortress is made up of three distinct fortifications – the Upper Town, Lower Town and Inner Town. The most impressive structure is the Upper Town, which consists of a series of towers and walls. These walls are up to 10 meters high and are connected by a series of tunnels and staircases. Visitors can explore the tunnels and walk along the walls to get stunning views of the Danube and surrounding landscape.
The Lower Town is home to the ruins of a citadel that was destroyed in the 17th century. Visitors can explore the ruins and marvel at the remnants of the once-great citadel. The Inner Town is the smallest of the three fortifications and consists of a single tower. This tower is connected to the Upper Town by a fortified gate, which is the only access point to the Inner Town.
Visiting Golubac Fortress
Golubac Fortress is located in the town of Golubac, about 80km northeast of Belgrade. The fortress is open daily from 10am to 5pm and is easily accessible by car or bus. There is an entrance fee of 500 RSD (around €4) for adults and 250 RSD (around €2) for children.
Visitors can explore the fortress on their own or take a guided tour. The tours provide an in-depth look into the history of the fortress and the wars it has seen. The tours are available in several languages and can be booked online or at the entrance.
Conclusion
Golubac Fortress is an impressive medieval stronghold that has witnessed centuries of conflict and change. It’s an iconic symbol of Serbia’s history and culture and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the country’s past. From its majestic walls and towers to its strategic placement on the Danube, Golubac Fortress is sure to leave a lasting impression.