# Stari Grad

- **Country:** Serbia
- **Coordinates:** 42.278258, 18.837997
- **Condition:** Under restoration
- **Year Built:** 12th century
- **Castle Type:** Fortified town
- **Location Text:** Užice

Stari Grad, meaning "Old Town," is a historic medieval fortress situated on a high, steep cliff overlooking the city of Užice in central Serbia. Perched dramatically above the Đetinja river, which meanders around the rock to protect the site on three sides, the fortification commands a strategic view of the surrounding gorge and town. Constructed primarily of stone, the castle was originally built during the 12th or 13th century, with some historical estimates placing its major development in the second half of the 14th century. Its primary purpose was to control movement along vital nearby roads and to defend the settlement of Užice, serving as a quintessential example of medieval Serbian military architecture.

Recognized for its immense cultural value, Stari Grad was declared a Monument of Culture of Great Importance by the Republic of Serbia in 1983. For centuries, the structure lay in ruins, but it has recently become the focal point of a significant reconstruction project aimed at restoring its former glory. The first phase of this extensive work, focusing on the citadel known as the Upper Town, was completed and opened to the public in late 2023. Ongoing efforts continue to restore other critical elements of the complex, including the iconic Water Tower, ensuring the preservation of this major symbol of local heritage for future generations.

The site also holds deep historical significance extending beyond the medieval period, as the surrounding area has been inhabited for millennia. Archaeological explorations in the nearby Đetinja gorge have uncovered prehistoric settlements dating back to the Neolithic era, through the Vinča-Pločnik culture, and into the Bronze Age. Today, Stari Grad stands not only as a testament to Serbia's feudal past but also as an active archaeological and tourist destination. Visitors can now access the restored upper sections to explore the ancient stone walls while witnessing the continuous blend of ancient history and modern conservation efforts in the heart of Užice.

![Photo of Stari Grad](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bf/%D0%A1%D0%B2%D1%98%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%81_%D1%82%D0%B2%D1%80%D1%92%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%B5_%D0%A3%D0%B6%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%BA%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B4.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stari_Grad,_Užice (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)