Chocolate Museum in Belgrade | Museums in Serbia

Our town has become richer with another interesting museum space since February 18th. This time, visitors will not enjoy artworks or historical artifacts, but an extraordinary presentation of one of the favorite sweets on the planet - chocolate.

It is an interactive concept that, in addition to the exhibition area, also has a tasting room, so there is no doubt that this small museum on Pijarona de Mondezira Street (formerly Tadeuša Košćuška 18) in Dorćol will be a favorite destination for Belgraders in the coming period.

Chocolate Fantasy

The museum is designed as a journey through the history of chocolate, from its origin in Central and South America to the present day. The founders have opted for interactive content, so guests have a unique opportunity to taste some of the exhibits.

The space consists of several parts. The first one is dedicated to the birthplace of chocolate and is decorated as a South American jungle. Visitors will be able to see original Mayan and Inca artifacts there. The second part is dedicated to Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries and represents the expansion of chocolate use on our continent. The third part is a presentation of the history of chocolate in the former Yugoslavia and Serbia, as well as a contemporary view of the "queen of sweets."

Although chocolate museums already exist in the world, the one in Belgrade will differ from those in Vienna, Barcelona, and Zagreb, precisely because of its interactive approach and exclusive exhibits. One of the founders mentioned that it took more than three months to obtain some Mayan artifacts because they represent a real treasure.

A special feature is that tasting is an integral part of the experience, so visiting the museum will be a delight for all senses. The team behind this project highlights fortune-telling with chocolate as something not to be missed.

Before we rush to the Belgrade Chocolate Museum, let's get better acquainted with the most popular confectionery in the world. The history of chocolate is fascinating, sometimes harsh, but exciting in every sense.

A Brief Course on Making Chocolate

Although many people adore it, few know that chocolate is a relatively new treat in European territories. Namely, the birthplace of chocolate is South America, where it has been used since ancient times. Its name comes from an old Mesoamerican dialect and most likely means bitter drink. It entered European languages through Spanish.

The ancient peoples of southern Mexico and Guatemala considered it an aphrodisiac and believed that it gave strength to those who drank it. And they were right, considering that cocoa (the main ingredient in chocolate) is a fantastic source of energy and health.

However, we must not forget that in the original chocolate recipe, sugar was not added. Therefore, it was bitter and served with various spices that contributed to the nutritional value of this magical beverage.

How Did Chocolate Conquer Europe?

Sailors brought it to our continent in the 16th century, and it was long a privilege of the wealthy aristocracy. It caused a complete frenzy in Europe, especially among sophisticated ladies who spent incredible sums just to get their favorite drink.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, it was mainly served at all European courts after meals and represented a demonstration of wealth and power.

Around this time, sugar began to be added to chocolate to reduce its bitterness. Natural fats contained in cocoa caused stomach problems, probably due to excessive consumption. It was believed that sugar could help with digestion.

After the Industrial Revolution, chocolate entered wider use, primarily due to a significant price drop. The most deserving for the democratization of our favorite sweet is the Dutch industrialist Van Houten, who patented a chocolate-making machine. It was with the invention of this machine that the transformation of chocolate from a liquid to a solid state began. Shortly after that, milk chocolate appeared, created by mixing cocoa mass with powdered milk.

It's Not All Sweetness and Light

Perhaps the darkest part of chocolate history is associated with African slaves who were brought to work on cocoa plantations in Central and South America. It can be said that the obsession with this product also changed the demographics of the American continent.

Despite its somewhat problematic past, chocolate has not lost its popularity. It is consumed worldwide in various combinations of flavors and shapes. Mentioning chocolate makes most people's mouths water and their faces light up with a smile.

A Sweet Habit

And while some warn that it can be harmful to health, chocolate defies any negative publicity. Thanks to its intriguing taste, it has become an integral part of modern life. Even its name is pronounced the same in almost all languages.

For all of us who give chocolate as a gift to bring joy, show love, or seek forgiveness, the Chocolate Museum in Belgrade is an ideal place. Treat someone dear to you to the sweetest outing in town. Of course, you can also come alone, and perhaps you will experience a magical encounter with someone who shares your love for the "queen of sweets."