Discovering Novi Sad

Numerous diverse historical and cultural monuments grace the streets and squares of the old centre of Novi Sad, which also serves as the city's commercial and tourist hub, boasting a pedestrian zone that spans approximately 500 meters.

Liberty Square (Trg Slobode), the largest central city square, was constructed in the 18th century. Bordering the square are buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Throughout its history, the square has been a focal point for commemorating significant events in the city's past and a gathering spot for the community, hosting numerous events and celebrations.

In the centre of the square stands the bronze monument of Svetozar Miletić, soaring seven meters in height, including its marble base. Crafted by the renowned artist Ivan Meštrović, this monument was positioned on the square twice. Firstly, in 1939, during World War II, when the occupying forces intended to remove it, the monument was concealed by the citizens. Following the city's liberation in 1944, the monument was reinstated to its original location.

On the western side of the square stands the Town Hall, an architectural masterpiece constructed in 1895 in the Neo-Renaissance style, designed by architect George Molnar. Its facade is adorned with striking Ionic and Corinthian columns. The facade also features 16 statues representing various human activities, masterfully crafted by Julie Annika. At the pinnacle of the building rests a lofty tower housing the bell of St. Florian, the city's patron saint. Known as "Matilda," the bell was donated to the fire volunteer squad and once served to signal the location of fires in the city through a specific number of tolls.

On the opposite side of the square, one can admire the towering Catholic Church of the Name of Mary, constructed in 1895 in the neo-Gothic style. The interior is adorned with exquisite furnishings carved by Tirol craftsmen and boasts four altars, along with a 24-register organ. The church's windows feature 20 stained glass paintings created by Hungarian and Czech glass artists. The steep roof and towering Clock Tower soar to a height of 76 meters, enhancing the church's grandeur.

Stretching along the old town's longest facade is Hotel Vojvodina, extending for over 60 meters. Originally built as a hotel in 1854, it was a pioneering establishment, offering luxurious rooms with hot and cold water, an upscale restaurant, and an esteemed café at that time.

The sole contemporary structure in Freedom Square is the Apollo Shopping and Business Center, constructed in 1993. It occupies the site of Novi Sad's first permanent theatre, after which it was named. The cinema is located in the courtyard of the former theatre building.

Theatre Square is home to the substantial and modern edifice of the Serbian National Theatre, completed in 1981. Encompassing an area of over 20,000 square meters, the building hosts three performance stages. The Serbian National Theatre in Novi Sad holds the distinction of being the oldest institution of its kind among the Serbs, founded in 1861 for dramatic productions. The opera was established in 1921, followed by ballet performances in 1950.

Nestled behind the theatre stands the Uspen Church, a Baroque-style masterpiece erected in 1774. Devoted to the Holy Virgin, this church showcases a precious iconostasis, wall paintings, and intricately carved wooden furniture, all remarkable creations by local woodworkers. A baroque tower, adorned with three bells, graces the church's exterior.

The Tanurdžić Palace reigns as the city's largest palace, with its main wing situated on Zmaj Jovina Street, while its extensive structure encompasses Modena Street and the third Ilija Ognjenović Street. Constructed in the Bauhaus style in 1934, the palace was designed by architect George Tabaković for the affluent merchant Nicholas Tandžurović. A portion of the building was expanded in 1940 and later transformed into a hotel, now known as Hotel Putnik.

Zmaj Jovina Street ranks among the oldest streets in Novi Sad, extending from Liberty Square to the bishop's palace. It assumed its present appearance during the latter half of the 19th century, following the city's reconstruction after the bombardment. Once bustling with numerous craft and trade shops, it was formerly known as Magazinska Alley. In the early 20th century, the street teemed with activity from dawn till dusk, becoming a favoured evening promenade after sunset.

At the street's end, in front of the bishop's residence, stands the monument of Jovan Jovanović Zmaj, the renowned children's poet for whom the street is named. This bronze statue, towering at 230 centimetres, is perched upon a granite pedestal and has graced the street since 1984.

As Zmaj Jovina Street reaches a juncture, dividing into two paths leading to Danube Street (right) and Pašićeva Street (left), the Vladičin Court makes its presence felt. This regal palace serves as the residence of the Serbian Orthodox Bishop of the Diocese of Bačka. Erected in 1901, the Serbian-Byzantine-style building was designed by architect Vladimir Nikolić. Its facade is adorned with red bricks and embellished with yellow plastic ornaments, the exquisite work of Julius Anika, featuring a pseudo-Mavar style. Inside, the palace houses an extensive collection of portraits, carved furniture, and other historical and cultural treasures.