Savamala

Savamala, one of the oldest urban districts, is specific in many ways. For Bohemia, clubbers, artists and designers Savamala represents a real shelter and maybe the most beautiful and romantic parts of Belgrade, whilst other residents of Belgrade may find it decrepit and dusty block with chaotic architecture and terrible traffic. All in all, nobody can deny authentic spirit of Savamala with numerous touristic sights. It got name by connection of two words: “Sava” and Turkish “mahala” meaning “settlement, quart, city area”. One it was spreading to Slavija Square, but nowadays Savamala is limited by Gavrila Princip and Karađorđeva Streets, Brankov Bridge and Main Railway Station.

During Prince Miloš rule, Savamala used to be elite and urban part of the capital and had developed infrastructure with restaurant, shops and craftsmen workshops. From that time Manakov’s house in oriental style is left: it was a kafana and nowadays hosts a part of Museum of Ethnography. Old crafts and traders have almost totally disappeared, but one of those left is the famous candy shop „Bosiljčić“. Workers of „Bosiljčić“ since 1936 have been making hand-made candies and sweets according to original recipe.

In Savamala district one of the most beautiful Belgrade buildings is located – The building of Belgrade Cooperative or Geozavod built in academic manner between 1905 and 1907. Its interior is nothing worse than the exterior. Although the splendid edifice lost its chic after World War the II when was used less and left to fell into decay, it showed its restored facade and luxurious interior two years ago after a complete restoration. Across the road from Geozavod Bristol Hotel from the 1912 is located, it used to be the best city hotel where Rockefeller used to stay.

Nowadays Savamala is a, clubber’s, cultural and designer’s center, creative hub and one of the most beloved places of youth and tourists. With lots of cafes, restaurants and clubs what makes Savamala beloved among youth. Clubs Brankow, located in the Brankov Bridge, popular triplet of bars Mladost, Ludost, Radost (meaning „Youth, Madness, Joy“), Mixer House, Cultural Center Grad, Tranzit, Club 100, Berliner or Čorba cafe are just several clubs, pubs and restaurants, hosted in this creative district.