Prokuplje Fortress

Prokuplje Fortress is a medieval fortification situated on Hisar Hill above the modern town of Prokuplje in southern Serbia. Surrounded on three sides by the Toplica River, the structure was primarily built in the late 14th century under the direction of Prince Lazar Hrebeljanović as a strategic defense against impending Ottoman invasions. Although the site holds layers of history dating back to Roman and Byzantine settlements known as Hammeum and Complos respectively, the remaining stone walls characterize the Serbian medieval period. The fortress served as a vital trading hub on the route to the Adriatic coast and Ragusa, hosting both Serbian Orthodox and Latin churches that reflected its diverse merchant population.

Architecturally, the complex features an oval citadel positioned on the highest plateau, with two concentric bulwarks descending to form lower boroughs on the hillside. The interior citadel spans approximately 500 square meters and originally included a large water cistern for self-sufficiency. A notable surviving element is the Jug Bogdan Tower, an outpost located on the riverbank named after a famous voivode from Serbian epic poetry. This tower likely functioned to control river crossings and secure the fortress's water supply. The site also contains archaeological remnants of Roman baths and pre-Roman foundations, highlighting its long-standing military and civilian importance.

Following temporary occupation in 1440, the Ottomans fully conquered the fortress in 1454, restoring the damaged citadel for their own garrison while common folk inhabited the lower sections. During this era, it became known as Hissar, the Turkish word for fortress. Today, the site is open to the public and remains a significant cultural landmark. The area is renowned not only for its military history but also for its association with the Prokupac grape, indicating a thriving historical wine-making industry. Visitors can explore the ruins which stand as a testament to the region's complex past involving Roman, Serbian, and Ottoman influences.