We present you gates of Old Belgrade that are located in Lower Town of Kalemegdan Fortress.
It was called by many names during its existence – by Sava river, Šabac town, Bosnian and Dark. Sava’s because it’s located on that side of the fortress, and for other names we leave you to explore on your own.
Built in the 18th century as a passage through a bastion, with guard rooms on both sides. Every army that guarded from this place, from the Austrian to the Yugoslav, left its mark on the wall – whether it was a cross, a menorah, or dates. We also believe that some of those dates are very personal.
The southernmost entrance to the fortress was once the Outer Sava – a gate from the 18th century. Built in the classical Turkish style, it had strategically arranged passages and ramparts to prevent the enemy getting in. In the second half of the 19th century, it was significantly damaged and abandoned, and only figures of two birds in shallow relief have been preserved from the once beautiful facade. Renovation of this key point of the city’s defense began 15 years ago, and it’s now possible to see it in a restored condition that roughly reflects its former significance and glory.
Baroque has left many traces on the Belgrade Fortress, and when it comes to its gates, the gate of Carlo VI is considered one of the most beautiful. The last monument of Baroque Belgrade was built in the first half of 18th century when Eugene of Savoy entered Belgrade and placed it in the possession of the Holy Roman Empire and the ruler of Emperor Carlo VI. The gate was erected as a sign of triumph and represented a new entrance to the Lower Town. When touring Belgrade, don’t skip this landmark, because it is truly magnificent.
This gate dates back to 15th century when port on the Sava River was built. During numerous wars fought in this area, it was damaged, and at one point it was forgotten and buried. Its remains were found after World War II, and when it was finally excavated, it was revealed it hasn’t lost its original structure. At the very entrance, there used to be boat access, so it was also called the Fisherman’s Gate.
Built during the Turkish renovation of Austrian fortifications in the first half of the 18th century. Like the Dark Gate, it was used army needs even during the existence of Yugoslavia. As it was crucial for the city’s defense, it hasn’t changed much and remained in its original form until today. In the side rooms, of which there are four, there are fireplaces and one smaller window each. Come and feel the charms of this Belgrade gem.
Magic doors are always an inspiration for fairy tales, novels, oral traditions. Gates represent the entrance to a new world or the exit towards new adventures. Kalemegdan gates are waiting for you. Who knows, maybe just by going through them you will discover something new.
