A cluster of bizarre earthen figures in the vicinity of Kuršumlija, which nature creates and destroys due to soil erosion, is popularly nicknamed the City of the Devil. The Devil's City is one of the most striking attractions in Serbia and a nominee for Natural Wonders of the World.
The city of the Devil is located on the slopes of Mount Radan, where there are many mineral and thermal springs, and due to the high concentration of minerals in the soil, the vegetation is very sparse. All this contributes to the leaching and weathering of soils and the emergence of, as someone aptly put it, “devilish” landscapes. Today there are 202 earthen figures about two meters high, topped with something like a hat. Under the influence of climatic conditions, these pillars grow, change shape, then gradually disappear, then appear again.
People, of course, could not explain their strange behavior, and created legends about the origin of the Devil's City. According to one of them, the figures are petrified matchmakers, according to another, the harsh aga punished disobedient servants, the third claims that these are the remains of churches destroyed by evil spirits. But everyone agrees on one thing - there is some mysticism here. And what could be more attractive for a tourist than meeting something inexplicable and mysterious, which is why for those who like to tickle their nerves, excursions to the City of the Devil are often held at night.
Tara National Park
A national park in western Serbia with an area of 22,000 hectares, located in the highest part of Mount Tara, located in the municipalities of Bajina Basta and Užice.
The park has created conditions in which to this day a rich flora and fauna, heterogeneous relief, diversity of geological substrates, a humid climate and a warm limestone environment have been preserved. Fir, spruce, pine, aspen, maple, birch, and beech grow in Tara Park.
53 species of mammals and 153 species of birds have already been registered in the park, and species such as bear, chamois and European roe deer are under special protection.
What sights of Nis did you like? Next to the photo there are icons, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.
Shar Planina National Park
Shar Planina is a huge mountain range with a length of 85 km, located in the central part of the Balkans. It acts as a natural border between Macedonia and Serbia. In 1975, a national park was opened here, the territory of which occupies about 40 thousand hectares. Its vegetation is renowned for its incredible diversity and ranges from subarctic to Mediterranean.
On the territory of Shar Planina there are unique monuments that are of invaluable importance for Serbian culture and history. In addition to medieval settlements, fortresses and tombs, the park is decorated with numerous monasteries and churches that were built in the 16th century. About 150 species of butterflies and birds live in these places, making Shar Planina National Park the richest in Europe.
Here is a real kingdom of endemic coniferous plants - Rumelian and Balkan pines, which are very rare in our time. In September 2005, the park became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located in southeastern Europe, the Sava River flows through the territory of four countries: Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and, of course, Serbia.
It is a right tributary of the Danube, 945 km long, and there are numerous cities on it: Slovenia - Kranj, Ljubljana, Litja, Sevnica, Krško, Brezice, Zagorje na Sava, Hrastnik Croatia - Zagreb, Sisak, Slavonski Brod, Županja.
Why is it interesting?
The largest tributary of the Sava is the Drina. The river is of great transport importance, navigable for 593 km from the city of Sisak in Croatia to the mouth.
The name of the river was first mentioned by the Roman polymath writer Pliny, and according to the Bulgarian academician V.I. Georgiev, “Sava” from Greek means “it is raining.”
Also, the Sava River unites three capitals: Ljubljana (Slovenia), Zagreb (Croatia) and Belgrade (Serbia).
Hilandarski Metoch Church
The Hilandarski Metoh Church is a unique religious building erected in the 16th century in the city of Nis, Serbia. The temple was built in a mannerist style, which was characterized by sophistication of forms and inflated lines. The main facade of the building was completed in 1588 under the direction of the famous architect Andrzej Berman. In 1650, the building was damaged by fire and some important examples were lost.
Restoration of the Hilandar site began in 1760 and lasted about 5 years. The building took on a completely new shape and was decorated with amazing paintings dating back to the early Baroque style. The windows of the temple are quite large, made in the form of arches, so the rooms of the building are always bright and spacious. Inside the church there is a small altar dating from the 17th century, as well as icons brought here after the fire.
The top of the Hilandarski Metoh church is decorated with a beautiful belfry, which was added to it only in 1963. Every year this temple attracts many tourists and pilgrims.
Vronsky Church
The Russian church in the Serbian village of Gornji Adrovac reminds descendants of the battles of the Serbian-Turkish war, in which several thousand Russian volunteers took part. The church was built on the site of the death of retired Russian army colonel Nikolai Nikolaevich Raevsky.
Its other name – “Vronsky’s Church” – is associated with the widespread version in Serbia that it was he, Nikolai Raevsky, the grandson of the legendary Borodino hero, who served Leo Tolstoy as the prototype for the image of Count Vronsky in the novel “Anna Karenina”. The church was built at the expense of the family 27 years after the death of N.N. Raevsky. The sketches of the frescoes were made by the Russian artist Vasnetsov. They were reproduced on the walls by the Serbian painter Dusan Obrenovic. On September 2, 1903, the solemn consecration of the new temple took place. It was built in the Byzantine style, with a large but not high dome. The combination of stone of two colors, white and red, gave the façade an elegant look and made it stand out against the background of the surrounding greenery.
The Serbs were very touching about preserving the memory of the hero who died for the liberation of their homeland. The church was maintained in order for many years; every year on September 2, solemn services were held in honor of Nikolai Raevsky. In the post-war years, devastation and desolation came here. It was only thanks to public organizations in Russia and Serbia that the temple was restored and is now open to the public.
The most popular attractions in Nis with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Niš on our website.
Updated 02/07/2019
The main character of the article is Nis (Serbia): I’ll tell you about the sights of the city and suggest a route to get to know it. You will learn how to get to the city of Nis in different ways, where to stay and where to eat. Serbian Nis is a unique city. The Roman Villa, the Tower of Skulls, the concentration camp are just some of the city's must-see attractions.
Nish - from primitive people to independence
Nis (Serbia) is one of the oldest and largest cities in the country. The first inhabitants appeared here 100 thousand years ago: the remains of primitive people were found in the towns of Kremenac, Medosevac, Buban and Humska čuka. The last two sites date back to 5800-5500 years. The Celts first settled on the site of modern Niš in the 3rd century BC. e., they called their city Navysos - Vilin grad.
From the 1st century BC. e. power in Niš passes to the Romans. As part of the empire, the settlement was named Nais and became quite famous - even Claudius Ptolemy mentions it in “Geography”. One of the main highways in this area, Via Militaris or Via Diagonalis, passed through Nis (Serbia).
Historians know Niš, not least as the birthplace of Constantine the Great, the future Roman emperor. During his reign, a villa was built here, which was excavated by archaeologists. It was named Median and is now one of the main attractions of Niš. In the 4th century - perhaps during the reign of Constantine - the Naia diocese was founded here and a number of basilicas were built.
The advantageous location and fame not only helped the city, but also ruined it. In 442, 448 and 480, the Huns completely destroyed Niš, despite the fortified walls. Only under the reign of Justinian I in the middle of the 6th century was the city restored and new towers built. But that didn't help either.
History of Niš: from hand to hand
After decades of relatively peaceful life as part of the Roman Empire, Niš (Serbia) stood in the way of Slavic migrations. The city often changed hands:
- In 615, Niš was finally captured by the Slavs, and the Romans fled the city.
- In 803, the city was taken by Bulgarian troops under the leadership of Khan Krum.
- In 1018, Niš returned under the wing of the Romans, or rather their heirs - Byzantium.
- The city spent 1072 under the rule of the Hungarians, but the Byzantines quickly recaptured Niš.
- In 1190, the Bulgarians came here again and occupied the city for a long time.
- In 1386, the army of the Ottoman Empire entered Niš and plundered it.
- In 1443, an army of Christian Serbs pushed the Turks all the way to Sofia.
However, the Ottomans firmly established themselves in Europe, and in 1448 they occupied Niš in earnest and for a long time. The city remained part of the Ottoman Empire for 245 years. It was only in 1689 that Europeans – the Austrians – were able to retake the area for the first time. Niš (Serbia) surrendered to the onslaught of the army of Ludwig of Baden, but already in 1690 the Austrians retreated.
In 1737, the famous Nis Fortress appeared in the city. Ironically, in the same year the area changed hands several times - the Turks and Austrians again fought for the city. The Ottomans were once again able to defend the territory. Moreover, throughout the 19th century, Niš was considered a Bulgarian city - due to the predominant population. For example, Chele Kula, a tower of skulls, dates back to the period of Ottoman rule.
The city in the 20th century and today
As a result of the San Stefano Peace Treaty, a new government came to Nis - Serbia took possession of this city. Most of the Bulgarians left, the rest merged with the Serbs. During the world wars, Niš was captured several times, but the last major battle took place here on October 14, 1944, when the city was liberated by the Yugoslav army. After the collapse of the country, Niš again came under the rule of independent Serbia.
Today Niš is the largest city in southern Serbia, the third largest in the entire country after Belgrade and Novi Sad. About 300 thousand people live here. There is a university in Niš, opened in 1965 and with 30 thousand students. Nis (Serbia) is the center of the local diocese. There is even a residence of the Metropolitan here. is the second largest in the country after Belgrade.
Attractions Niš
The section is dedicated to all the interesting places in the city, which, by the way, are scattered throughout its different parts. If you don't have a car, you'll have to walk a lot. Or use public transport.
Public transport fare in Niš: from 60 to 100 dinars (depending on the zone, of which there are four).
I’ll tell you how to get to each of the attractions in the subsection about it, and at the end I’ll give you tips on how to best get to know the city.
What I haven’t fully figured out is the cost of tickets to the Nis museums. In my case, the story was not very clear. The first paid attraction I visited in Nis was the Tower of Skulls. The cashier announced the price of 200 dinars and said nothing more.
When visiting the concentration camp, I paid another 200 dinars, and again nothing was announced about the all-inclusive ticket. Moreover, at the tourist office, when I asked about all these places, they also didn’t tell me anything about the existence of such a ticket.
Later, I read that 200 dinars is the cost of a comprehensive ticket, which allows you to go to Chele Kulu, the Red Cross concentration camp, Mediana and the Archaeological Museum.
If you manage to purchase one comprehensive ticket to all these places and see them, please write a comment on this article and share your experience.
Nis Fortress
The first sights of Niš were built by the Romans. In the 2nd century, local authorities rebuilt the military camp - castrum - into a small stone fortress. In the 6th century the fortifications were renewed. Each government in Niš slightly completed the fortress and strengthened it, but until 1718 no one seriously began to restore the Roman walls and towers. After a series of battles with the Austrians, the Ottoman Empire nevertheless decided to build powerful fortifications - this is how the modern Nis fortress appeared. The Ottoman bastion has reached us almost unchanged.
The Nis Fortress today is the main attraction of the city in its very center. Admission is free, the gates are open 24 hours a day. The fairly extensive interior area has several restaurants and cafes, souvenir shops and a couple of historical buildings.
For example, a mosque. There are also gunpowder warehouse buildings and a prison here, which burned, and, apparently, relatively recently. There are information signs near all historical buildings, but the buildings themselves are not monitored. Near the same prison there are huge piles of garbage. There is no comparison - the Serbs there follow the historical heritage more carefully.
Chegar - memory of the tragic battle
The Tower of Skulls in Niš is a tragic reminder of the first Serb uprising against the Turkish authorities, a number of successes of which are largely associated with the actions of the Russian army that fought the Ottoman Empire. One of the main battles of the uprising took place on May 31, 1809 on Mount Cegar near Niš.
The Serbian army, which was supposed to recapture Niš from the Turks, was led by several governors. They were unable to develop a general plan of action and did not dare to attack the city. As a result, each of the governors erected their own fortification structure near Niš, called a trench. The closest place to Niš was the trench on Mount Cegar, defended by a detachment of governor Stefan Sindjelić.
The Turkish garrison in Niš at the time of the approach of the Serbian troops numbered no more than 3 thousand people, but due to the inaction of the Serbs, 20 thousand Turkish soldiers entered the fortress. It was this army that attacked Sindjelic's positions on Mount Cegar on May 31, 1809. Five times the Turks approached the governor’s trench and five times his people drove them back. The attackers were able to gain the upper hand only because the Serbs ran out of bullets and gunpowder. At the same time, other commanders watched the battle from their trenches, but did not come to the rescue.
When most of Cegar's defenders fell, Stefan Sindjelić fired into the powder magazine. A powerful explosion occurred, as a result of which the governor himself, his soldiers, as well as many Turks who were in the trench were killed. After taking Sindjelic's positions, the Serbian troops began a disorderly retreat. The Battle of Cegar was the largest Serbian defeat in the history of the uprising. After him, the Turks began to advance towards Belgrade and only the intervention of the Russian army helped stop them.
Cegar Monument near Niš
Two landmarks remind us of that battle today:
- Monument on Mount Chegar.
- Tower of Skulls.
The Internet is full of crafters who love to write about places they have never visited. Thanks to such unfortunate travelers, they may get the impression that these two attractions are located next to each other. But that's not true.
The monument on Mount Cegar appeared on the very spot near Niš where the battle took place. In 1878, a memorial sign was erected here in memory of the Serbs who opposed the Turks, and in 1927, on the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the liberation of Niš from the power of the Turks, a tower was erected. By the way, it was designed by a Russian architect who was born in Odessa and emigrated from there after the October Revolution of 1917. The monument is a tower - a symbol of military fortification. There is also a bronze bust of Stefan Sindjelic and two cannons from the First Serbian Uprising.
The monument is located 7 kilometers from the center of Nis (marked on the map), entrance is free.
Tower of Skulls in Niš
Chele Kula or Skull Tower appeared almost immediately after the battle of Chegara. Osman, who commanded the troops in Niš, ordered to take the heads of the Serbs killed in the battle, rip off their skin, and build a tower from the skulls. This is how the Tower of Skulls appeared in Serbia. It originally contained 952 skulls - 17 skulls in each of the 14 rows in each of the four walls. According to legend, there were not enough skulls, and the Turkish governor ordered the beheading of 30 Serbian prisoners in order to collect the required number.
Currently, there are about 50 skulls left, but the niches in which they were once embedded are reminders of those events. The Turks wanted to scare the conquered people with an eerie tower, but in the end the Tower of Skulls (Nis, Serbia) became a monument to the love of freedom and courage of the Serbs.
Later, a chapel was built above the tower. Inside it, in addition to the Tower of Skulls, which occupies most of the space, there is a guest book and a skull that allegedly belonged to Voivode Stefan Sindjelic is kept separately.
Useful information about Chele Kula
Working hours:
- Tuesday – Friday: 09:00 – 19:00.
- Saturday – Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00.
- Monday is a day off.
How to get there:
- By public transport: buses No. 3 and No. 10 to the Ćele Kula stop.
- On foot: from the center 2.5 kilometers, 30 minutes.
- By car: mark a point of interest on the map, build a route and drive. Parking at the Tower of Skulls is free.
Concentration camp Crveni Krst
Many of Niš's attractions are associated with wars and battles. Such is the Red Cross concentration camp, opened in the city in 1941, and now turned into a museum complex. The camp was located next to the train station of the same name and consisted of the main prison building, auxiliary buildings, guard houses and observation towers. Before liberation in 1944, 30 thousand people passed through Crveni Krest. From 10 to 15 thousand were shot.
In one of the premises of the camp, the Serbs opened a museum in which personal belongings of prisoners, their memories, surviving documents, and photographs are collected. The solitary cells on the top floor remained untouched.
Security towers have been preserved on the territory - a wooden one, which the Germans erected immediately, and a more solid, concrete one - which appeared here after the mass escape of prisoners. The place near the wall of the former concentration camp is striking - here in the 40s single executions were carried out. The Germans shot prisoners en masse on Buban Hill (more on that below) and the museum has memories of those days. True, you can only read it in Serbian or English.
Useful information about the Red Cross concentration camp
Working hours:
- Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 16:00.
- Monday is a day off.
Entrance ticket price: 150 dinars (200 dinars for a complex ticket).
How to get there:
- By public transport: bus number 3 to the Logor stop.
- On foot: from the center 1.5 kilometers, 20 minutes.
- By car: look for a point on the map below and plot your route. Parking at the museum is free.
Memorial Park Buban
The Bubanj Memorial Park is also closely connected with the Crveni Krst concentration camp, like the Cegar monument with the Tower of Skulls. However, these two attractions are not located next to each other, but in different places.
Buban is a hill where in 1941-1944 the Nazis shot and buried concentration camp prisoners. Exactly how many people were killed has not yet been established. During the retreat, the Nazis destroyed all documents about the concentration camp. During its exploration, 50-meter ditches were discovered on the hill, filled to the brim with corpses...
Symbolic paths pass through the park through memorable places; there is a bas-relief with poems and words in memory of the fallen prisoners. The central part is occupied by three large stone fists raised to the sky - a symbol of the unconquered Serbs. The sculptor was inspired to create the memorial by the story of a concentration camp prisoner who raised his fist to the sky a second before being shot.
Useful information about Buban Park
Working hours: 7 days a week.
Entrance fee: free.
How to get there:
- By public transport: bus No. 2 and No. 4 to the Buba stop.
- On foot: from the center 3 kilometers, 45 minutes.
- By car: look for a point on the map below and plot your route. Parking at the park is free.
Nis Median
Emperor Constantine the Great, a native of the city of Niš, also loved sights. Therefore, he built a residence here called Mediana (maybe it was not built by him and not even by his order, but definitely during the reign of Constantine). Since 337, after the death of the emperor, the villa was used by his successors. The sons of Constantine also lived here. The median, like many of Niš's undiscovered sites, fell into disrepair after the sack of the city by Attila in 442. Excavations are currently being carried out here. Many finds can be viewed in the museum.
Useful information about Median in Niš
Opening hours: could not be found (the attraction is definitely closed in winter).
Entrance ticket price: 150 dinars (200 dinars for a complex ticket).
How to get there:
- By public transport: bus number 3 to the Agrogradnja stop.
- On foot: from the center 4.5 kilometers, 60 minutes.
- By car: mark a point of interest on the map, build a route and drive. Parking at the Median is free.
Churches Niš
In the city of Nis (Serbia), there are quite numerous sacral-type attractions. But most of the churches were built in the 19th-21st centuries. It is worth dwelling in more detail on the more ancient and interesting temples.
Cathedral of the Descent of the Holy Spirit. The main temple that is definitely worth a visit in the city of Nis. What to see? The main thing is the façade. Construction of the cathedral began in 1856 and was completed in 1872. Therefore, national Serbian, Byzantine, Islamic, and Renaissance styles were mixed in appearance. In 2001, the building was damaged by fire, but has now been completely restored.
Cathedral address: Prijezdina br. 7
Of other churches in the city of Nis (Serbia), I advise you to take a look at:
- Church of the Translation of the Relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker of Myra in Bari, 1722-1727.
- Cathedral of Michael and Gabriel the Archangels, 1815-1819.
- Church of Panteleimon the Healer, 1878.
- Hilandarski Metoh Church is one of the oldest churches in the city of Nis. Sights inside include a 17th-century altar and a row of icons. In the facade one can notice early mannerism and later baroque decorations.
In the city of Nis (Serbia), attractions are not limited to churches and ancient buildings. The relatively young city center, completed in the 18th century and called Craftsmen's Lane, is an interesting and pleasant place. Nowadays, it is a pedestrian street that starts from Piazza Regio Milano (Trg Kraja Milana). There are many shops, souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants on the street. On the other side of the square is the main gate of the Nis Fortress. They are preceded by a bridge over the fast river Nishava.
It is from King Milan Square that I suggest starting your acquaintance with the city - first walking through the fortress, then along the pedestrian street. It is better to visit all other attractions in such bundles.
- Concentration camp museum - Buban memorial park (to get the best impression of these two places).
- Tower of Skulls – Median (located not far from each other).
- Go to Chegar Hill only if you have more time and desire.
How to get to Nis
Traditionally, there are three main ways to come to Nis.
- Bus.
- Train.
- Automobile.
I will tell you as if you are going to come to Nis from Belgrade. Niš is also convenient to visit if you are coming from neighboring countries or Bulgaria.
Belgrade - Nis by bus
The Belgrade - Nis bus travels on average 3.5 hours. Dozens of flights depart towards Niš every day - from early morning until late at night. In short, leaving is not a problem. The route is served by several carriers. The fares are different, but they do not differ much from each other.
For example, Nis Express bus ticket Belgrade - Nis costs 960 dinars. You can buy online at onlinetickets.nis-ekspres.rs. In Niš, buses arrive at the city bus station. It is not located in the very center, but within walking distance from it.
To Nis from Belgrade by train
Several trains leave from Belgrade's main railway station to Niš every day. Travel time is from 4 hours 40 minutes to 5 hours 40 minutes. Ticket prices: from 750 to 1200 (depending on the train and carriage - I or II class). In Nis you can get off at one of two stations: CRVENI KRST - near the concentration camp and the main railway station. From both it is possible to get to the city center on foot, but if your goal is Niš airport, then get off at the Crveni Krst station, it is closer to the airfield.
Compared to the bus, the train is a less preferable option, since it takes longer and you won’t be able to save money on travel. Recommended only for lovers of railway romance.
To Nis from Belgrade by car
The distance Belgrade - Nis is 240 kilometers, covered by car in 2.5 hours. The two Serbian cities are connected by the A1 highway. There is a charge to travel along it. On the Belgrade-Nis section, the fee is 800 dinars or 6.5 euros (both currencies are accepted, as well as bank cards). If you are going to rent a car, I recommend comparing the prices of the main rental companies on Rentalcars.
Nis and its main points on the map
On the map I marked all the main attractions of Niš and parking areas next to them. To see the name, click/tap on the marker.
Where to live in Nis
I rented an apartment through Airbnb (about the bonus for the first booking in this system, be sure to use it if you have not registered on the site before). The apartment is located in the very center of Nis. A little shabby, but with free parking and really in the very center of the city (5 minutes walk to the Nis Fortress, 2 minutes to the main pedestrian street). The location is marked on the map above.
Here are a couple more accommodation options in Nis (both hotels and apartments), taken from Booking.com. Everyone is in the center.
Looking for a hotel or apartment? Thousands of options at RoomGuru. Many hotels are cheaper than on Booking
Being the capital of the administrative region of Nišava and the third largest city in the country after Belgrade and. It also has the status of the economic, industrial and cultural center of the state, and also has a number of historical attractions dating back to ancient times. Like other cities of the former Yugoslavia, Niš was heavily damaged during NATO bombing in 1999, but by now it has almost regained its former appearance.
Peculiarities
The capital of the region has a long history, for centuries being considered the gateway between East and West. It was here that Constantine the Great was born, who founded Constantinople and became the first Christian emperor in the history of Rome. Niš is attractive with beautiful architectural buildings, has a favorable geographical location and has a well-established infrastructure. Today it has a reputation as a large industrial and commercial city of great economic and strategic importance for the entire south-eastern Serbia. It is home to many educational institutions, museums, theaters and other cultural organizations. In addition, there are a fair number of restaurants, bars and entertainment venues, so a stay in the city is unlikely to seem boring or monotonous.
general information
The territory of Niš covers an area of several hundred square meters. km, with a population of over 300,000 people. The ethnic composition is represented by Serbs, Gypsies, Montenegrins, Bulgarians, Yugoslavs and Croats. Religious preferences presuppose the coexistence of Orthodox Christians, Muslims and Catholics. Local time lags behind Moscow by 1 hour in summer and 2 in winter. Time zone UTC+1 and UTC+2 in the summer. Telephone code +(381) 18. Official website www.ni.rs.
A brief excursion into history
According to researchers, people lived in these places back in the Paleolithic era, as evidenced by unique finds stored in the National Museum of Niš. Shortly before the advent of our era, the settlement that existed here was captured by the Romans, during whose reign the city was called Nais. After the fall of the empire, it was repeatedly attacked by barbarians and was constantly at the mercy of various nationalities. In 1448, Niš was captured by the Ottomans and ruled it for 245 years. World and internal wars in the 20th century had a significant impact on the economic well-being of the city, but, nevertheless, it preserved its cultural and historical heritage, representing considerable interest for foreign guests coming to the capital of Nishava.
Climate
The region has a temperate continental climate. In winter, the average air temperature is just below 0 degrees, and in summer it rises to +21. Precipitation falls throughout the year, but the total amount is not so great. The best time of year to visit these places is the summer months.
How to get there
The country's second most important international airport is located just 4 kilometers from the central part of the city. There is also a railway station in Nis that connects the regional capital with and other European cities. The bus network is no less diverse, providing routes in almost all directions.
Transport
Buses and minibuses are popular within the city limits.
Attractions and entertainment
Among the main historical sites of Niš are the monasteries of the Holy Mother of God, the Hilandarski Metoh church, as well as the churches of St. Sava, St. Paraskeva of Iveron and a number of other religious monuments of the past included in the monastery complex. On the right bank of the Nishava River there is a majestic Turkish fortress, whose age exceeds 200 years. Today, its territory has a magnificent park area, ideal for walking. At the main entrance there is a summer cafe and live music plays, which creates the appropriate ambience. Another outstanding monument of past years in these places is the gloomy tower of skulls of Čele Kula, at the base of which are laid the skulls of Serbs who died in the battle with the Ottomans on Mount Cegar in the First Uprising against the Ottoman Empire. The order for its construction was given by the Turkish Pasha, who thus decided to remind the Serbs of the power of the Turks and intimidate them. Initially, more than 900 skulls were embedded in it, but now less than 60 remain. In 1892, a chapel was built around the tower to perpetuate the memory of the victims. Since 1979, the building has the status of a cultural monument and is protected by the state.
A good place for a walk in the city is the Buban memorial park complex, dedicated to the victims of the Nazis during the Second World War. You can also get a lot of pleasant impressions by walking along Kotelshchik Lane, which is the old center with buildings from the Ottoman Empire period. In the vicinity of Niš, it is worth visiting the archaeological site of Mediana, and the first concentration camp in Serbia, Crveni Krest, where now there is a museum in memory of the victims of the Nazis.
Kitchen
In the culinary establishments of the city you can try a variety of dishes for every taste, from all kinds of meat to vegetable salads and seafood. Excellent Balkan wines are recommended for drinks.
Shopping
The shops, markets and shopping centers of the provincial capital offer a wide range of goods for every taste.
Nis is an extremely interesting city and meets the expectations of most tourists. It has unique attractions, developed infrastructure and a rich historical heritage, invariably giving its guests a lot of vivid impressions and positive emotions.
Nis is a friendly city to everyone who comes and lives here. It has always been multinational. Over many centuries, Niš has developed an incredibly vibrant mosaic of traditions, languages, and religions. You feel at home here because you will always find something “yours.”
Niš is one of the oldest cities in the Balkans, the third largest, located southeast of Belgrade, on the Nišava River (Serbian: Nišava). People lived on its territory for another 100 thousand - 30 thousand years BC. e. Many conquerors came to these lands: Dardanians, Thracians, Illyrians, Celts, Romans, Huns, Avars, Byzantines, Serbs, Bulgarians, Turks, Hungarians, Austrians. And each nation gave a new name to the city.
Versions of the city name
The city was named after the Nishava River. The Romans called it "Nassius", the Byzantines - "Nisos", the Slavs - Nis, the Germans - Nissa.
But there is another version. The ancient name of the city is Naissus, translated as the city of Nymphs. According to legend, in the place where the city is now located, the river overflowed and formed small lakes in which nymphs loved to swim. The most beautiful among them was Nais. The river, and later the city built on its banks, began to be named after her. True, skeptics argue that the niche is just a valley between the hills.
How the city developed
Niš traces its history back to the 3rd century BC, from the first Celtic settlement. Slavic tribes appeared in Niš in the 6th century. The Turks captured the city in 1386, after which it was recaptured several times by different rulers and again fell under Turkish rule. In the 19th century, Niš was Bulgarian, but as a result of the Russian-Turkish War and the Treaty of San Stefano, it passed to the Principality of Serbia.
Niš is known as the birthplace of Constantius III and Constantine I the Great, who in 313 issued the Edict of Milan, which granted freedom of religion, and Christianity became a permitted religion. This is where one of the oldest Christian churches in world history is located.
Today Nis is a large commercial and industrial city. There are museums, theaters, a symphony orchestra, a university, and the city is home to the residence of the Metropolitan of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The main transport routes from Central Europe to Turkey and Greece pass through Nis.
Attractions
Niš Fortress
Monument to the Liberators of Niš
Kazandzhiysko sokache
Memorial Park Buban
Church of St. Nicholas
Church of the Ascension of Christ at the Hilandar Metohi
Church of St. Archangel Michael
Great Cathedral Church
The architecture of Niš reflects the influence of different eras and all the peoples who have ever inhabited it.
Roman Median
The oldest landmark of Niš is the Roman Mediana (Medijana), the residence of Constantine. During excavations, the remains of an imperial villa, a thermal bath, a granary and a water tower were found.
Nis Fortress
The most important historical monument is the Niš Fortress (Niška tvrava) on the right bank of the Nišava. In the interior of the citadel, gates, bastions and various structures built by the Turks in the 18th century have been preserved; Tombstones from the Roman period have survived.
After walking around the fortress, you need to cross the bridge to the right bank of the Nishava. Immediately on the left you will see a memorial sign to Emperor Constantine, and directly in front of it, across the road, is the Mayor’s Office (Gradska Kuћa), the former People’s Bank, a building built in 1924. The forged grilles, floral patterns and window niches in the neoclassical style are amazingly beautiful.
Piazza Rei Milano
Next is the Piazza del Regio Milano (Trg kraja Milano), where you simply need to stop and admire the beautiful houses. One of them is the house of the wealthy Nišlija (resident of Niš) Andon Andonović, which more closely resembles a palace in the style of French neoclassicism. The 3-story mansion is richly decorated with reliefs, pilasters and balconies with beautiful wrought iron fences. In the middle of the building is an image of the god Hermes.
At Pekar Branković, where bread was first baked in 1885, buy a bun baked according to recipes from the nineteenth century.
In the center of the square stands the equestrian monument to the liberators of Niš, dedicated to the liberation of the city from the Turks and the patriots of World War I.
Now you can take a walk along the main pedestrian street Obrenovicheva (Obrenoviћeva). It's something like Arbat. There are many cafes, expensive restaurants, banks and shopping centers. The buildings, mainly in the neoclassical style, were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The House of Stamboliyskikh (Kuћa Stamboliјskikh) on Nikole Pašića Street is a witness to the turbulent “Ottoman” times.” Anyone can become a guest here; you just need to book a table at the Sindjelic restaurant, which is “registered” here.
Kazandzhiysko sokache
Kazandzhiysko sokache (Kazanџiјsko sokache) is an old city alley in the bohemian quarter. It is located between Republic Square (Trg Republika), in the east, and the Kalča shopping center, in the west. You need to reach almost the end of Obrenovicheva Street and turn onto Kopitareva, you will find yourself in the territory of the former artisans' mahalla. Today, of course, there are no jewelers or blacksmiths left here. Now it is an area of cafes and restaurants. But, nevertheless, the old paving stones have been preserved.
Chele Kula
The Tower of Skulls (Yele-kula) stands on Mount Chegar. There, in 1809, a bloody battle between the Serbs and the troops of the Ottoman Empire took place. The Serbs died heroically, and the Turkish Pasha ordered to build a tower of 952 enemy skulls, now only 58 remain. Now a chapel has been built over this tragic monument.
Concentration camp Red Cross
The main monument of the 20th century is the former concentration camp “Crveni Krst” (Logor Crveni krst). 30 thousand people passed through it. Unlike other camp complexes, there were no crematoria here, and the bodies of the dead were covered with slaked lime. Now a museum has been created on the territory of the camp. You can walk through the barracks and look at the exhibition with photographs of former prisoners. In 1979, the camp was declared a cultural monument of exceptional importance.
Memorial Park Buban
Two kilometers from the camp is the Buban memorial complex (Spomen Park Buban) with a marble monument, a chapel and three huge impressive stone obelisks, which symbolize the raised and clenched hands of a man, woman and child, threatening the enemy. The memorial is dedicated to the memory of more than 10,000 civilians executed by the Nazis.
The memorial chapel on Šumatovacka Street, between the university and the fortress, was built in memory of those killed during NATO bombings from 1991 to 1999. A total of 134 people. Their names are carved on memorial tablets.
Temples
The city of Nis has many churches of different denominations. They all have their own temple. Among them: the Church of St. Nicholas (Tsrkva Svetog Nikole); Orthodox Cathedral (Saborni Temple), built in 1856-1872; Church of the Holy Emperor Constantine and Empress Helena (Temple Svetog of Tsar Constantine and Queen Helena), Church of St. Panteleimon (Tsrkva Svetog Panteleimon), Roman Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Tsrkva Presvetog srca Isusovog), built in 1884. In Nis there are Protestant, Baptist, Evangelical, Seventh-day Adventist, and Jehovah's Witnesses churches.
There are several Serbian Orthodox monasteries near the city. The mosque (Islam-agina џamija) was built before the liberation of Niš from the Turks in 1870 in place of the old one. The synagogue has existed since 1695, the current building was erected in 1925.
The Church of St. Nicholas is a cultural monument. Over its history, it changed its religious purpose 6 times - from Christianity to Islam.
The Orthodox Church of the Ascension of Christ at the Hilandar Metokhi (Temple of Vaskrseva Christovog at the Hilandar Metokhi) is a unique religious monument of the 16th century in the mannerist style, with an original belfry added in 1963.
Church of St. Archangel Michael (Tsrkva St. Archangel Michael), or Small Cathedral Church, was erected in 1814, when the Turks allowed the Serbs to build buildings only of a certain height. Therefore, the church is half underground. It is located in the “tserkvena porti” of the Great Cathedral Church, in the appearance of which four architectural styles can be traced - Byzantine, Islamic, Renaissance and Baroque.
Holidays and festivals
On June 3, Niš celebrates the South Slavic holiday of the Glory of the Cross. In August, the city hosts the traditional International Film Festival.
In August, the Nišville Jazz Festival is held on the open stage of the Niš Fortress. In September, the city celebrates the popular music festival Nisomnia. Concerts of the Nimus Classics Festival can be attended in October-November.
Burek, although it is historically a Turkish pastry, the residents of Niš consider it their traditional dish. The “Burejiyade” holiday is dedicated to him, which takes place in September, and where you can try this culinary miracle performed by various masters.
What to see in the area
In the village of Gornji Mateževac, which is located a kilometer from Niš, there is a medieval brick church of Our Lady of Rusalia (circa 11th century). Gornji Mateževac is considered a park of medieval architecture: the traditional flavor of the Serbian village has been preserved here.
10 km from Niš is the health resort Niška Banja (Nishka Baja), known since Roman times.
The Serbian ski center Stara Planina is located 75 km from Nis.
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The oldest city on the Balkan Peninsula, Nis, is truly impressive, and is now the third largest. Turks, Romans, both world wars, the Holocaust - it is difficult to find a grandiose historical event in Europe that would not affect this city. Niš has been conquered and liberated countless times, and has only belonged to Serbia for the last century and a half. However, the city has not turned into a huge historical monument; it is very cozy and fresh. Walking through Nis, you will be amazed by the breath of life that permeates every street.
Nis: how to get there?
Nis is a major transport hub, so tourists have a huge choice of ways to visit the city. Firstly, of course, this is the air route. Not far from the city, just 5 km from the center, is the international airport named after Constantine the Great (this is where this great man was born). You can order a taxi or rent a car in the building. A taxi to the city will cost you $10. The airport also has its own fleet of buses that provide transfers to the city at intervals of 15 minutes, the fare is $1.5. The buses are equipped with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.
Secondly, you can take a road trip to Nis. The European six-lane motorway E75 passes through the city. Traveling by car to Nis, you will enter the city from Belgrade, the journey time will be 2 hours. However, keep in mind that this section of the highway is toll, you will have to pay about $20.
Thirdly, by rail. The station is located 2 km from the central square, it is only a 30-minute walk. Tourists note that the trains running on international routes are very old (from the 70s) and the speed of such travel is extremely low, but the tickets are cheap.
Fourthly, you can arrive in Nis by bus. Bus routes are laid to Bulgaria, Turkey, Greece and lead to Belgrade. The stop in the city is an intermediate stop. When choosing a bus route, make sure that it goes along the E75 highway, otherwise your journey may be extended due to stops in other cities. The bus station is located near the central square of the city.
When is the best time to visit Nis?
The city hosts several international music and acting festivals between August and September. If you want to attend this event, then plan to visit Niš during these months. Museums, monuments, castles are available for visiting at any time of the year. The climate is temperate continental, so residents of the middle zone will feel comfortable staying in the city.
Prices in Nis
It is worth noting that local laws will not allow you to pay in euros or dollars, so make sure to exchange enough currency for dinars in advance. There are many banks and currency exchange offices in the city center. In fact, many tourist places, such as hotels, will accept euros, but the exchange rate will not be favorable.
Nis is positioned as a tourist city, so there are many different hostels, mini-hotels, inns, and private pensions. Even without a reservation, you can find a place to stay for the night. A bed in a hostel will cost you from $13, and most hostels will offer you free breakfast. Prices for mini hotels start at $25, a room in an economy hotel will cost from $30, three stars will cost you at least $60 per night, and a location in the city center will cost from $90. You can stay at the Alexander Palace Hotel, which offers a magnificent view of the city, because it is located on the hills, you will have to pay $120 for such a pleasure.
Nis is a paradise for foodies. In any place, be it a cafe, eatery or restaurant, you will be offered dishes of national cuisine starting from $10. Be sure to try burek - a fragrant pie with cheese and minced meat. Or “Balkan burger” - a mix of beef, pork and lamb, served in a crispy bun or pita bread. All local cuisine contains a lot of meat, so it will be difficult for vegans to find a place for dinner; as a rule, cafes offer 1-2 types of vegetarian dishes.
Shopaholics should visit the Kalka shopping center, it has everything: clothes, souvenirs, bars, restaurants, etc., and prices are several times lower than in Moscow. There is also an “underground passage” - an entire street under the central embankment of the city, where small shops are located. While walking around the city, pay attention to the signs: they will lead you to other large shopping centers. Between the fortress and the bus station is the lively city market: you can find everything here. Hundreds of farmers deliver their products here every day.
Moving around the city
If you like long walks, you can get around the city on foot. It will take you 2-3 hours to cross Nis from one end to the other. Taxi services are widespread in the city. The fare will cost from $2 to $5 depending on the mileage. Most drivers speak basic English, but always have a map handy to show your destination to the taxi driver. You can order a taxi at the hotel; if you order by mobile phone, do not forget to indicate the city phone number.
Public transport is well developed in Nis. A bus ticket can be purchased directly from the conductor for $0.8. If your stay in the city is long, you can buy a monthly pass at kiosks at major stops. Most bus routes go through the central city square.
You can also move around the city by car: personal or rented. In this case, remember that parking in the city center is paid, approximately $0.45-$0.7 depending on the zone. Parking cards can be purchased at any newsstand. Renting a car will cost you another $30-70, depending on the class of car provided and the rental period.
Where to go and what to see in Nis?
Mediana is the birthplace of Constantine the Great, which is located in the vicinity of the city of Nis. It is an excavation site for an ancient villa: a granary, a courtyard, Roman baths and a number of other buildings.
The Tower of Skulls was built from the skulls of Serbian soldiers killed by the Turks in a battle in May 1809. 58 skulls have survived to this day, the rest were taken out and buried. At the beginning of the 20th century, a chapel was built around the tower. The Niš fortress on the banks of the Nišava River was built by the Turks in the early 18th century to defend the city. Numerous objects have been well preserved to this day: prisons, an armory, a bathhouse, a postal station, etc.
The Holocaust Memorial Park on Bubanj Hill was built in the second half of the 20th century in memory of 10,000 people: Serbs, Roma and Jews. In the suburbs around the hot springs, Nis Spa is located - this spa helps to regain health with the healing properties of water.
Craftsman's Alley is an old city quarter from the 18th century where craftsmen and other craftsmen of the Turkish period lived and worked. This street is lined with cozy cafes that locals love to visit.
