Explore the colossal hilltop complex of Petrovaradin Fortress. Enjoy views of the Danube from the castle’s battlements, learn about its 300-year history via museum exhibits and wander through a maze of subterranean tunnels. Slaves began the construction of Petrovaradin Fortress in 1692 and building work continued for 88 years. Prior to the construction of the castle, Paleolithic people, Celts, Romans and Turks used the rock on which it stands as a fortification.
Admire the complex’s well-preserved former military barracks as you wander along cobblestone streets. Several now host art studios, cafés and restaurants. Go to the Lower Town area of the fortress to see the Baroque-style Belgrade Gate and the Church of St. George. In the Upper Town section stands the Clock Tower, which has an hour hand that is bigger than the minute hand. This allows the Danube fishermen to better tell the time from afar. The views from the defensive walls are exquisite both during the day and at night.
Delve into the castle’s long and interesting past at the Novi Sad City Museum. A chronological timeline highlights the evolution from prehistoric times to World War I. Get an idea of civic life in Novi Sad from the mid 1700s to the mid 1900s and see displays of works by notable Serbian artists. Don’t miss a guided tour of the eerie military tunnels while listening to stories of the mythical animals and ghosts that inhabit them.
Visit in July for the award-winning Exit Festival. In 2013 and 2017 it won Best Major Festival at the European Festivals Awards. The line-up of diverse performers has featured big-name acts such as Guns N’ Roses, Erykah Badu, Manu Chao, Robert Plant and Snoop Dogg. Arrange accommodations for the festival at a camping village on the Štrand beach.
The fortress stands atop a volcanic rock on the west bank of the Danube. Walk here in 30 minutes from Liberty Square.
Petrovaradin Fortress is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Fees are charged for the museum and tunnel tour. Visit the official website of the Exit Festival for information about dates and ticket prices.