Pirot | Top 10 in Cities in Serbia

Momčilov Grad

The Pirotski Grad or Kale, also known as Vojvoda Momčilo's Fortress, dominates the center of Pirot. It was built in the 14th century during the rule of Prince Lazar, but in 1386, it fell into the hands of the Ottomans. Just before the Battle of Kosovo, the fortress was returned under Serbian control, which was one of the reasons for the battle in 1389. It is located near the center of Pirot, close to the confluence of the Bistrica River with the Nišava River. The fortress was constructed in three levels and was difficult to conquer due to its architecture. The highest part of the fortress is where the donjon tower is located, which served as the last defense for rulers during sieges or conquests by enemies. The fortress was used for filming scenes for the movie "The Battle of Kosovo," and it was renovated for visitors in 2018, becoming an essential tourist attraction in Pirot.

Museum of Ponišavlje

The Regional Museum of Ponišavlje and Lužnica was established in 1947. It holds a collection of approximately 6,500 items divided into several departments (archaeology, ethnology, history, numismatics, and art history). Pirot is known as the "city of rug weaving," and in the museum, you can see some of the most beautiful examples of rugs that have been made in Pirot since the 16th century. The museum is located in one of the oldest and most beautiful houses in Pirot – the Hristić family house. The house was built in 1848 by Hrista Jovanović, a merchant and janissary (a military rank) for his family's needs. While traveling through the Balkan Peninsula, Hrista came up with the idea of constructing a magnificent two-story house, which was unique for that time. The house's unusual architectural style includes a terrace on the upper floor that was used for hosting guests. In 1979, the Hristić family house was declared a monument of cultural significance.

Guševica Fountain

The oldest fountain in Pirot, built in the mid-19th century during the Ottoman rule. It was constructed in the part of the city called Tijabara, where Christians have always lived. This settlement was formed along the route of the former Roman road, which determined the city's layout. In the past, the fountain was supplied with water from a natural spring, but today it is connected to the city water supply. Its current appearance was most likely established after World War I when the entire neighborhood underwent changes. The area around the fountain represents the Old Bazaar, a place where the people of Pirot used to gather, especially during holidays and market days. Not far from Guševica, there is another old, stone-built fountain called Ladna Voda.

Pirot Quay

The park and promenade situated on the banks of the Nišava River, Pirot quay is a delightful place for relaxation and rest during a visit to Pirot. It was created by arranging the riverbank to protect the city from the fast-flowing and turbulent Nišava. Its present appearance dates back to the 1930s when lime trees were planted, which still adorn the park today. Cobblestone paths, tall trees, the Nišava River, and lawns are just a part of this green oasis in the city center.

City Market

The traditional Serbian market that can be seen in other cities across Serbia as well, but the city market in Pirot stands out because here you can buy and taste some of the most authentic specialties of the Pirot region. One of these specialties is pirot cheese, whose production process is listed as part of Serbia's intangible cultural heritage. The cheese is made from sheep's milk obtained from freely grazing sheep on the meadows of Stara Planina. The tradition of cheese-making in these areas is very ancient. It is believed to have been brought by Jewish merchants who called the product "košer," and over time, the name was mispronounced and changed to kačkavalj. It is believed that the first kačkavalj in Serbia was made precisely in Pirot. Today, kačkavalj is produced in strictly controlled conditions, including at the Mlekarska škola in Pirot.

At the market, you can also purchase ironed sausage, a famous product from this region. The sausage is made from sheep, goat, or beef meat, and its distinctive horseshoe shape is achieved through the "ironing" process using a glass bottle. Since 2011, Pirot has been hosting the Fair of Pirot Irons Sausage.

Viewpoint Sarlah

On the hill of the same name, above Momčilov Grad, you'll find the Sarlah viewpoint. It's an ideal place for rest, recreation, and enjoying panoramic views of Pirot and its surroundings. The hill features a marked trim trail, and you can reach the viewpoint from the city center in less than ten minutes. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and panoramic sightseeing of the Pirot Basin.

Zavoj Lake

The most popular destination for the people of Pirot during the summer days is Zavoj Lake. It's located 17 km from Pirot, in the Visočica River valley on Stara Planina (the Balkan Mountains). The lake was formed by a tragic event in 1963 when the entire hill collapsed into the Visočica valley, creating a natural dam that flooded the village of Zavoj. Later, a concrete dam and the Zavoj Hydroelectric Power Plant were built, which still generates electricity today. Zavoj Lake has retained its authentic natural appearance, without restaurants, bars, and organized beaches, and it represents one of the most beautiful lakes in Serbia.

Not far from Zavoj Lake is the "stone village" Gostuša, known for its houses built from stone in an archaic architectural style.

Arbinje and Tupavica Waterfall

This magnificent site is located on the slopes of Stara Planina, in the area of the village of Dojkinci. There's an asphalt road leading to the village, followed by a good-quality dirt road. Arbinje is a strict nature reserve situated in the upper course of the Dojkinac River. It is presented as one of the most beautiful spruce forests in Serbia, accompanied by numerous peat bogs, springs, waterfalls, and cascades. One of the most accessible waterfalls for tourists is Tupavica, a cascading waterfall located near the village of Dojkinci. A leisurely walk along a well-trodden path takes about an hour and a half to reach this waterfall in the heart of the mountain. In the river basin, you can also find some of the largest and highest waterfalls in Serbia.

Cave Church of Saint Peter and Paul

One of the oldest churches in Serbia is located in the village of Rsovci (22 km from Pirot), on the slopes of Stara Planina. This small and unique cave church was built in the 13th century and is characterized by the Christ Child fresco, which people often call Bald Jesus. This is probably the only fresco in the world where Jesus is depicted as a young and bald figure, and it is believed to have been created during the same period as the church. You can reach the cave and church with a short walk from the village of Rsovci through the Visočica River valley.