Hello everyone, I hope you are doing great. These days I was very busy at work and when I found some free time, I wanted to escape from the Belgrade, where I live, to a smaller town where life is slower and less stressful. My choice was Smederevo, a peaceful town, only 60 km from Belgrade.
I love historical cities that give you the opportunity to go back in time, especially when you want to distance yourself from the stressful reality and step into the old days when a different way of life was lived. Smederevo is such a city, which awakens your imagination and allows you to be a part of a medieval story. It is known for the Smederevo fortress, which consists of a small and a large town, built in the 15th century.
The Smederevo fortress is one of the largest fortresses in Europe and is surrounded by the rivers Danube and Jezava. When you look at it from the air, you can clearly see that it is made in the shape of a triangle, but when you walk by its walls, you don't get that impression.
When the Hungarians conquered Belgrade in the 15th century, Smederevo was chosen as the new capital. Despot Djuradj Brankovic, an important historical figure of Serbia, first built a small town where he lived with his family. Within the small town there was also a library and a mint. After the small town, a large town was built, with 19 more towers.
A lot of effort and pain was invested in the construction of the Smederevo fortress. It was not easy at all at that time to build walls thick enough to withstand the artillery weapons and attacks of the Turkish army. This fortress was known for the thickness of its walls, which exceeded the standard dimensions of the time.
Throughout history, Smederevo fortress was conquered by the Turks, but was later liberated. During the world wars, it had many damages that were repaired over time. Most of it has been preserved in its original form and represents a great cultural-historical treasure and significant heritage.
When my son and I entered the fortress, behind the door, we felt very excited.
The past echoed within the high walls. I felt that the luxurious way of life of a despot and his family was lived there.
But inside the Large town, the smell of wars is also felt. In the Middle Ages, there were military camps in the Large town and the local people also lived there.
We climbed the high, steep steps and began the tour of the fortress.
When we climbed up, we enjoyed the wonderful view of the Danube.
We passed through doors and small tunnels and were delighted by the sight we saw every time we came out.
The fortress offers a view of a beautifully landscaped park, suitable for walks and recreation.
My son suggested that he take a photo of me because he saw that I only take photos of the fortress and thought it would be great if we also took some photos together.
Another proof of the luxurious way of life are the remains of the spa bath that the ruling family enjoyed.
According to legend, Djuradj Brankovic's wife, Jerina, popularly known as Cursed Jerina, was known for her evil actions. Not only legends speak about this woman, but also many scientific studies and preserved stories. There is a story that she forcibly abducted young men from a nearby village to be her lovers. She chose them according to the size of their genitals. This is nothing compared to the terrible crimes and tortures she inflicted on people.
The fortress also offers a view of the auxiliary towers built by the Turks for military purposes.
We had a great experience walking through this medieval town and hearing stories from its rich and turbulent past.
When we got down, we walked through the park within the walls of the Large town.
This place was very pleasant for me to relax from hard work. The locals are very friendly and smiling. Positive vibes circulate around.
While we were walking, we came across a sacred complex.
Gold earrings, very elegant, were found in that place during the archaeological research.
What's not good is that some parts of the fortress are very dilapidated and are threatening to collapse, so I hope that the state will invest in the preservation of this beautiful historical landmark. It is worth preserving.
Thank you very much for reading.
The images and writing are original and mine.
Greetings!
Jelena