Summary
With a name denoting “Royal City” in Serbo-Croatian, Kraljevo is a site where the nation’s medieval monarchs were crowned. This significant ceremony took place at Žiča, a splendid 13th-century monastery located on the outskirts of the city, adorned with original frescoes.
If you are fascinated by medieval art and history, you will find Kraljevo particularly rewarding, as it is in proximity to the enchanting Maglič Castle and numerous other monasteries. Maglič Castle towers above the Ibar River, which becomes especially picturesque in early May when lilacs, planted in medieval times, bloom. If possible, visit during Veseli Spust in July, when thousands make their way downstream to Kraljevo in a jubilant, albeit slightly frivolous, flotilla.
Below are some of the most captivating activities in Kraljevo:
1. Žiča
Travel by taxi or bus to this monastery, revered for its historical significance as much as for its architectural beauty.
This monastery was commissioned by Stefan the First-Crowned, who is also responsible for Maglič Castle, which will be discussed next. In the medieval era, a Serbian monarch was not officially recognized as such until consecrated at Žiča; consequently, seven kings were crowned here from the 13th century onward.
The monastery is characterized by its seven doors, corresponding to the seven kings.
The frescoes within the church are exquisite, with the oldest dating back to the 1200s, illustrating scenes such as the Dormition of the Mother of God and Christ Pantocrator, which is a significant figure within Orthodox tradition.
2. Maglič Castle
An impressive sight from all perspectives, this 13th-century castle is perched on an imposing promontory several hundred meters above a bend in the Ibar River.
Its name derives from the Serbian word for fog, “Magla,” as the castle is often shrouded in mist during winter.
In the courtyard, visitors can examine the ruins of barracks, a palace, and a church, while the outer walls, which encompass seven towers, have undergone restoration.
Wooden walkways and stairs facilitate movement around the site, allowing one to savor breathtaking views of the mountains and the Ibar Valley.
3. National Museum
Located slightly west of Kraljevo’s center, the National Museum occupies a charming square adjacent to the cathedral and facing St Sava Park.
This attractive Neoclassical edifice from the 19th century showcases permanent exhibitions dedicated to art, archaeology, and ethnography, which were updated in 2008. Delve into the rich history of Kraljevo, spanning from the medieval period through the Ottoman era, while also learning about the various conflicts that have affected the city.
A section is devoted to the bourgeois life within the city during the 19th and 20th centuries, alongside a sobering account of a mass execution facilitated by the Nazis in October 1941.
4. Valley of Lilacs
The rugged cliffs of the Ibar River gorge near Maglič are adorned with lilac trees.
According to legend, these were planted by King Stefan Uroš I as a romantic tribute to his betrothed, Helen of Anjou.
She, a French princess, played a pivotal role in fostering an era of learning and culture during the 13th century.
The lilacs bloom at the onset of May, celebrated for the last decade with a festival known as The Days of Lilacs.
During this time, medieval-themed activities take place at Maglič Castle and the Žiča and Studenica Monasteries.
5. Veseli Spust
Translating to “Happy Downhill” in English, Veseli Spust is a non-competitive regatta on the Ibar River from Maglič to Kraljevo.
This whimsical flotilla takes place in early July, attracting up to 20,000 participants, regardless of whether the weather is fair or inclement.
The makeshift vessels range from wooden rafts to old military landing craft and inflated tyres, ensuring a light-hearted atmosphere.
No real danger exists, as the river is shallow and slow-moving.
Throughout the delightful 25-kilometer journey, revelers can enjoy lively brass band performances and the aroma of barbecues in the air.
Participants often use buckets to playfully splash others on different boats, all in good spirits, of course.
6. Gospodar Vasin Konak
Many cities in central and southern Serbia feature “Konaks,” which originally served as residences for high-ranking officials during the Ottoman Empire.
This particular distinguished house, constructed in 1830 in the heart of the city, reflects the architectural style adopted after the Ottomans were expelled.
Master Vasa’s Konak was commissioned by Prince Miloš Obrenović to serve as a residence for the city’s Bishop and is situated in the tranquil environment of St Sava Park.
It remained the seat of the diocese until 1941. Today, it stands as a remarkable half-timbered structure, featuring stone walls up to the first floor beneath a well-crafted wooden gallery with extended eaves.
Inside, it now hosts an orthodox spiritual center dedicated to the influential Bishop Nikolaj Velimirović, who served in the mid-20th century.
7. Trg Srpskih Ratnika
Kraljevo’s unique urban design has not yet been discussed.
This layout is attributed to Prince Miloš, who sketched a rough plan in a pan filled with sand using his finger. Architect Laza Zuban realized this vision.
An orderly grid system radiates from a circular central square known as Trg Srpskih Ratnika (Square of the Serbian Warriors). This area has a significant presence at street level and hosts the tourist office.
In the center, an impressive monument commemorates those who fell during the Second Balkan War and World War I, inaugurated in 1932.
8. Holy Trinity Cathedral
The cathedral in Kraljevo possesses a captivating history, also involving the first prince.
Miloš Obrenović camped in Kraljevo during the Second Serbian Uprising at the dawn of the 19th century.
His encampment was established on the site where the church currently stands.
At that time, a modest wooden structure served as a Christian place of worship under Ottoman rule.
According to tradition, Miloš vowed to construct this church should he succeed in defeating the Turks.
Following liberation, Miloš fulfilled this promise, with the building being erected between 1824 and 1839.
9. Studenica
Along a winding road adjoining the Ibar Valley lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a necessary excursion.
UNESCO defines Studenica as the largest and wealthiest monastery of medieval Serbia.
Founded in the 1100s by Grand Prince Stefan Nemanja, Studenica comprises two churches constructed from white marble.
Its location is almost ethereal, framed by majestic mountains and encircled by circular fortifications.
The Virgin’s Church and King’s Church house frescoes from the 1200s and 1300s, remarkably well-preserved given their historical context.
10. Hermitage Cell of St Sava
When visiting the Studenica Monastery, it is advisable to wear suitable walking shoes, as you can also traverse the riverside trail leading to this network of monk cells carved into a cliff.
It is believed that St Sava inhabited these cells in the 13th century, and monks continue to reside there today, offering guided tours.
The cells are located approximately 12 kilometers or a two-hour walk from the monastery, passing sites of intriguing historical significance.
Among these sites is the marble quarry utilized by Grand Prince Stefan Nemanja, St Sava’s father, to construct the monastery’s churches.
11. Mataruška Banja
Located merely 10 kilometers from Kraljevo, the spa resort of Mataruška Banja is situated along the Ibar River.
Nestled amid wooded mountains, this destination provides a refreshing retreat during the summer, offering clean, crisp air and low humidity levels.
The hot springs in Mataruška Banja are recognized as the most sulphurous in Serbia, arising from over a kilometer beneath the earth’s surface.
Regardless of the season, they flow from the ground at a rate of 27 liters per second.
Health tourism commenced here during the interwar period, and a steady stream of visitors continues to seek balneotherapy treatments, mud wraps, and other wellness services.
12. Goč
Kraljevo is surrounded by five mountain ranges.
The most accessible of these is Goč, located directly to the south, with its highest peak reaching 1,216 meters.
This range is covered with beech, pine, and oak forests, where visitors may encounter fragrant wild herbs and strawberries during early summer.
In warm weather, Gvozdac Lake offers a refreshing spot to relax and appreciate the landscape.
In winter, the ski resort at Dobre Vode provides opportunities for winter sports, featuring two downhill slopes and five cross-country trails.
13. Vrnjačka Banja
Located within the Goč range, Vrnjačka Banja is renowned for its enchanting setting in the Vrnjačka and Lipovačka Valleys.
This spa is celebrated as Serbia’s premier wellness destination, a status bolstered by Prince Miloš Obrenović, who envisioned it to rival Carlsbad.
Vrnjci, a popular brand of mineral water, originates from this locale.
These springs have attracted generations of visitors since the Bronze Age.
The Romans officially established the spa resort Aquae Orcinae, with their hot baths recently excavated.
In total, there are seven springs, one of which, Topla Voda, emerges at a natural body temperature of 36.5°C.
14. Gradac Monastery
If you wish to include one more monastery in your itinerary, consider Gradac, which requires a longer day trip to the south of Kraljevo.
Like the historic sites near Kraljevo, Gradac is situated in a stunning location, on a plateau amidst the wooded slopes of the Golija range.
It was commissioned in the 13th century at the behest of Helen of Anjou and completed after the passing of Stefan Uroš I.
The couple’s tomb within the church features them depicted with a model of this building, symbolizing their joint effort in its creation.
The monastery fell into neglect during Ottoman rule but was renovated in the 1900s, and it now supports a community of nuns.
15. Cuisine
To experience dining in Kraljevo, a visit to a Kafana, traditional Balkan tavern, is essential.
Dining within these establishments serves as an immersive introduction to Serbian hospitality and culture.
Meals typically consist of multiple courses, complemented by live folk music that encourages patrons to join in song.
Some notable Kafanas in Kraljevo include Čutura, Kafana Štab, and Kafana Čaršija in the marketplace.
Dishes commonly available at Kafanas include meze, shopska salad (featuring cubed feta, cucumber, tomato, and onions), soups, and ample quantities of grilled meats.
Pljeskavica, a burger patty crafted from a blend of lamb, pork, and beef, is highly recommended, usually served in a bun or pita.
