National Museum of Serbia

The National Museum of Serbia in Belgrade is an incredible spot for anyone who loves diving into history, art, and culture. Right in the heart of Belgrade, this museum is the oldest and largest in Serbia, with over 400,000 items spread across 34 collections. It’s a fantastic place to explore if you’re traveling through the area.

History

The museum’s journey began in 1844, and it’s been through quite a bit over the years. It has moved around a few times, even setting up in a private home during World War I and a rented space between the wars. Despite these challenges, the museum has managed to keep its vast collections intact, showcasing everything from archaeological finds to European art masterpieces. The current building, which dates back to 1903, got a major facelift in 2018, costing around €12 million.

How to Get There

You’ll find the National Museum of Serbia at Trg Republike 1a, right in Belgrade’s city center. It’s super easy to get there using public transport. The closest bus stop is Trg Republike, with buses like 24, 26, 27, and trolleybuses 19, 21, 22, and 28 stopping nearby. If you’re driving, there are parking garages close by, such as Obilićev Venac, Zeleni Venac, and Rajićeva.

List of Attractions

1. Archaeological Collection: This collection is a must-see, featuring Roman, Greek, and Byzantine artifacts. Look out for the busts of Roman Emperors Diocletian and Marcus Aurelius, along with a fascinating collection of Ancient and Roman Greek coins.
2. Medieval Collection: Dive into Serbian history with medieval icons, illuminated manuscripts, and some impressive weapons and armor from classical times.
3. European Art: The museum’s European art collection is extensive, with Italian Renaissance pieces by Raphael and Titian, works by Dutch and Flemish artists like Paul Reubens, and art from Russia and England.
4. 20th-Century Yugoslavian Art: Check out the 20th-century Yugoslavian art galleries, featuring works by the famous sculptor Ivan Meštrović and other notable artists.
5. Miroslav Gospel: Don’t miss the Miroslav Gospel, an ancient manuscript from around 1190, written in Cyrillic script. It’s packed with 296 miniature illustrations and is recognized by UNESCO as the most beautiful manuscript in Cyrillic.

Ticket Information

– Permanent Collection: 300 RDS
– Temporary Exhibit: 500 RDS
– Both Permanent Collection and Temporary Exhibit: 600 RDS
– 50% Off for Students
– Free for Children Under 7 and Everyone on Sundays

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Your Visit: The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm, and on Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm. It’s closed on Mondays.
2. Explore the Building: The museum’s architecture is a beautiful example of the Byzant-Serbian revival style, so take some time to appreciate the building itself.
3. Take Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the collections and their historical significance.
4. Check Special Exhibits: The museum often hosts temporary exhibits, so it’s worth checking their website for the latest offerings.
5. Enjoy the Surroundings: Located near Republic Square and the National Theatre, the museum is in a great spot to explore Belgrade’s cultural and historical center.

The National Museum of Serbia is a cultural gem, offering a rich and varied experience for anyone who visits. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just curious about exploring a new city, this museum is definitely worth a stop.