Founded in 1853 as “Despotovica”, Gornji Milanovac lies on the River Despotovica in central Serbia. Archaeological findings show evidence of Neolithic, Roman and Byzantine settlements in the area, which played an important role in both the First Serbian Uprising and the Second Serbian Uprising against Ottoman rule.
Things to do in Gornji Milanovac
In the centre of Gornji Milanovac is the Museum of Rudnik and Takovo Region, which occupies the 1938-built Brkovic House. In addition to antique weaponry, maps and flags, it also exhibits objects related to the Obrenovic dynasty. Highlights of the collection include a carpet from the Old Court and a curtain in which the bodies of Alexander I and his wife Draga Mašin were wrapped following their assassination in 1903.
Gornji Milanovac makes an excellent base for visiting the Vujan Monastery, which is located on a wooded slope south of town. It is believed to have originated in the 13th century, although the current monastery was built in the early 19th century by Nikola Milicevic. Admire its whitewashed bell tower and totem-like carvings before exploring the beautifully decorated church interior.
In complete contrast is the House of Serbian-Norwegian Friendship, which resembles both a Viking ship and a traditional Serbian log cabin. It was built as a symbol of the two countries’ shared history, with thousands of Serbians taken to Norwegian concentration camps during World War II. Designed by Aleksandar Đokić, the building houses a small museum and a restaurant overlooking Gornji Milanovac.
Getting around Gornji Milanovac
Gornji Milanovac is around a one-hour drive from Kragujevac and 1.5 hours from Belgrade. Nikola Tesla Airport is also 1.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Regular buses connect to Gornji Milanovac and the town centre is small enough to explore on foot.