The Top Sightseeing Attractions of Niš

When it comes to the city of Niš, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Niš is the third-largest city in Serbia and it’s located in the south of the country. It’s a city with a rich history that dates back to ancient times. There are so many things to see and do in Niš that it can be hard to know where to start. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most famous sightseeing attractions of the city of Niš.

The Fortress of Niš

The Fortress of Niš, also known as Nišava Fortress, is a well-known attraction in the city. It’s located in the heart of the city and stands on the right bank of the Nišava River. The fortress was built during the Ottoman Empire and is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture.Tourists can enter the fortress through the Ottoman Clock Tower or by crossing one of the two stone bridges that lead to the fortress. Inside the fortress, visitors can explore the Turkish bath, the prison, and the barracks. They can also enjoy the beautiful views of the Nišava River.

The Skull Tower

The Skull Tower is a historical monument and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Niš. It was built by the Ottoman Turks in 1809, using the skulls of Serbian rebels who were killed during the First Serbian Uprising.The tower itself is made up of 952 human skulls, which were collected and preserved with lime mortar. The tower is a gruesome sight, but it’s also a powerful symbol of the Serbian struggle for independence.

Cele Kula

Cele Kula, also known as The Tower of Skulls, is another historical monument in the city of Niš. It was built during the 1809 uprising by the Ottoman Turks from the heads of Serbian rebels. The tower looks like a small fortress, with eight sides and a small entrance.Today, the building is in ruins, but it has been preserved as a historical monument. There is a plaque on the tower that reads: “Stop, traveler, and see this testimony of human savagery, of the might of the powerful and the helplessness of the powerless. Be terrified and contemplate the transience of life.”

Nišava River

The Nišava River is another must-see attraction in Niš. It’s a tributary of the Danube River and is one of the longest rivers in Serbia. The river is surrounded by beautiful greenery and is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the city.Tourists can take a stroll along the river or rent a boat and explore the river from a different perspective. There are also many restaurants and cafes along the river where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink and soak up the serene atmosphere.

Niš National Museum

The Niš National Museum is the oldest museum in Serbia and one of the most important cultural institutions in the country. The museum was founded in 1875 and has an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that date back to ancient times.Inside the museum, visitors can explore the permanent exhibitions, which include archaeological artifacts, art collections, and exhibits on the history of the region. There are also temporary exhibitions that showcase different aspects of Serbian culture and history.

The Monument to the Liberators of Niš

The Monument to the Liberators of Niš is a statue that commemorates the liberation of Niš from Nazi occupation during World War II. The monument is located in King Milan Square, in the center of the city.The statue depicts a group of soldiers and partisans who fought in the liberation of Niš. The monument is inscribed with the words “To the Liberators of Niš – Eternal Glory”.

Conclusion

Niš is a beautiful city with a rich history and many sightseeing attractions. From the ancient Fortress of Niš to the gruesome Skull Tower, there is something for everyone in this city.The natural beauty of the Nišava River and the cultural significance of the Niš National Museum make Niš an ideal destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and nature. The city is full of surprises and there is always something new to discover.

An Insider’s Guide to the Hidden Gems of Niš

As Serbia’s third-largest city, Niš is a fascinating mix of history, modernity, and local charm. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Balkans’, Niš’s central location makes it the perfect place to begin any Serbian exploration. While there are plenty of popular tourist attractions, this guide will take you off-the-beaten-path to discover some hidden gems that only locals know.

Local Attractions

When in Niš, be sure to visit the Crveni Krst Concentration Camp Memorial Site, located on the outskirts of the city. The site commemorates the victims of one of the largest concentration camps in the Balkans during World War II. The camp is preserved in its original form, with a permanent exhibition and guided tours.

Another local attraction is the Nisava River Beach, located in the heart of the city. This beach is the perfect spot to relax, meet locals, and enjoy the sunset. Visitors can also rent bikes, kayaks, and paddle-boats, and explore the city from a different perspective.

Dining Spots

When it comes to food, Niš is famous for its traditional Serbian cuisine, including grilled meats, burek, and knedle. One must-visit spot is the famous ‘Idjos’ butcher shop, which has been serving the city for more than 100 years. Here you can taste the famous ‘Niška đulbastija’, a grilled meat dish unique to Niš.

For dessert, try the traditional ‘Niške mantije’, small dough pockets stuffed with meat, spices, and herbs. There is no better place to try this specialty than at ‘Trpkovićs Mantije’ in Niš’s old town.

Cultural Experiences

While in Niš, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the city’s rich cultural traditions. The ‘Nišville Jazz Festival’ is a must-see for music lovers. It’s one of the largest jazz festivals in Europe, and it attracts world-class performers to the city.

Visitors can also explore the city’s art scene at the the ‘Kazandžijsko sokace’ district, which is full of art galleries, workshops, and handmade crafts.

Local History

As one of the oldest cities in the Balkans, Niš has a rich and storied past. Visit the Niš Fortress to learn about the city’s history during the Turkish occupation of the Balkans, or visit Mediana, a Roman imperial villa located just a few kilometers from the city.

For a more recent history, make sure to visit the Bubanj Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of Nazi killings during World War II.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique Niš experience, venture outside the city to the ‘Uvac Canyon’, located just a two-hour drive from Niš. The canyon is a nature reserve featuring breathtaking views, turquoise rivers, and an abundance of wildlife.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to take a hot air balloon ride over the city at sunset. It’s an unforgettable way to see the city from a different perspective and provides a fantastic photo opportunity.

In conclusion, Niš is a hidden gem of the Balkans with so much to offer. This insider’s guide is just a starting point to help visitors discover the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, hidden histories, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that make the city an unforgettable destination.