At the very entrance to the city of Užice, perched high on a cliff above the emerald waters of the Đetinja River, stands a powerful and quiet witness of centuries – the Užice Fortress. Though less known than Golubac or Smederevo, this fortress holds many secrets and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
A Medieval Jewel Above the Gorge
First mentioned in the 14th century, Užice Fortress belonged to Vojislav Vojinović, one of the most powerful Serbian noblemen of the time. Later, it came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, which reinforced it due to its strategic position above the Đetinja gorge and as a defense point toward Bosnia.
The fortress was destroyed and rebuilt several times, especially during the Austro-Turkish wars of the 18th century. During the First Serbian Uprising, it was briefly held by Serbian rebels. Interestingly, it was also fortified by Napoleon’s general Marmont, making it the only Serbian fortress with traces of French military influence.
🔍 Fascinating Facts You May Not Know
- The name Užice dates back to the 14th century, and it’s believed the fortress was built on an even older Illyrian or Roman fortification.
- The oldest part of the fortress is the donjon tower, used as a watchtower and the last line of defense.
- Just below the fortress lies Serbia’s first hydroelectric power plant, built in 1900 based on Tesla’s principles – and still operational today!
- In the 20th century, the fortress was used as a military ammunition depot, and today it is protected as a cultural monument of great importance.
🧭 How to Get There and What to See
The fortress is easily accessible on foot – just a 10-minute walk from Užice’s city center. A pleasant trail leads visitors along the riverbank and through a shady park before gently ascending toward the top. The view from the peak is nothing short of spectacular.
📸 Best photo spots:
- Fortress with the Đetinja River below
- The old railway bridge from the 19th century
- Sunset over the rooftops of Užice
- Stone walls and towers with historical textures
Užice – A City of History, Canyons, and Culture
Užice is one of the oldest cities in western Serbia, a blend of urban charm and mountainous soul. The city sits in a gorge, surrounded by Tara, Zlatibor, and Zlatar mountains. In the heart of Užice flows the Đetinja River, offering a riverside beach, crystal-clear waters, and a scenic walking path that leads all the way to the historic hydro plant.
Another interesting fact: Užice was the first liberated city in occupied Europe in 1941, when the short-lived “Užice Republic” was established during WWII.
🗺 What to Visit Nearby?
🎯 The Old Hydroelectric Power Plant – open to visitors, showcasing Tesla’s influence on Serbian modernization.
🌿 City Beach & Đetinja River Trail – a landscaped promenade perfect for relaxing walks through nature.
🎨 Museum of the Uprising and Partisan Hospital – important WWII heritage sites.
🌄 Kadinjača Memorial Complex – a dramatic monument offering a panoramic view of the valley.
🏞 Zlatibor and Tara Mountains – two natural gems just 30 minutes away, ideal for a day trip.
🧀 Sirogojno Open-Air Museum – a traditional mountain village where you can taste local cheese and step back in time.
Užice Fortress isn’t just a local curiosity – it’s a layered symbol of endurance, history, and the timeless connection between man and nature. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature photographer, or just a curious traveler, this cliffside gem offers a lesson in resilience and a panoramic escape above the river that remembers centuries.
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