Happy TravellerWelcome to Kraljevo, a historic city located in the heart of Serbia’s Raška District. With a population of over 61,000 people, Kraljevo is situated at the confluence of two important rivers, the West Morava and the Ibar. Surrounded by majestic mountain ranges and steeped in fascinating history, Kraljevo is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Serbia.
One of the most interesting things about Kraljevo is its name, which means ‘the Kings Town.’ The city received this name from King Milan I of Serbia, who was inspired by his own coronation and the six Serbian kings who were crowned in the area. Today, the city’s coat of arms features seven crowns, each of which represents one of these kings.
Kraljevo has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back over a thousand years. It was in the region around Raška that Serbia’s Grand Principality was centered in the 11th century, with its capital in the ancient fortress of Ras. The area is home to numerous monasteries, including the Studenica, Gradac, Stara Pavlica, and Žiča monasteries. The latter was the original seat of the Serbian Archbishop and was where many Serbian kings were crowned.
The city of Kraljevo itself is relatively young, having arisen from the village of Rudo Polje in the 14th century. During the Turkish occupation of the region, the village was known as Karanovac, and it became a strategically important settlement during the war between Austria and Turkey in the early 18th century. In 1819, Karanovac was liberated by Prince Miloš Obrenović following the Second Serbian Uprising, and the city began to flourish. The Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity was built, as well as numerous other public buildings and mansions for wealthy guests.
Today, Kraljevo is a thriving city with a vibrant economy and rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the city can explore its many historic landmarks, including the Maglič fortress, which was built during the medieval period, and the Žiča monastery, which was founded in 1210 by Saint Sava. Another must-see attraction is the Coronation church, which is part of the Žiča monastery and is where seven Serbian kings were crowned.
Kraljevo is also well known for its natural beauty, with stunning mountain ranges and picturesque rivers. The famous Studenica monastery is located just 39 km southwest of the city, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors to Kraljevo can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and rafting, and the city is home to many parks and green spaces.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Kraljevo is also a hub for sports and recreation. The city is home to several popular sports teams, including the OK Ribnica volleyball club and the KK Sloga basketball club. And every year, Kraljevo hosts an annual regatta called Joyful descend on the Ibar river, which is attended by thousands of people from all over Serbia.
In conclusion, Kraljevo is a hidden gem in the heart of Serbia that is just waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this fascinating country. So why not pack your bags and come explore all that Kraljevo has to offer?
