Nestled in the scenic Zlatibor mountain area of Serbia, Drvengrad stands as a testament to Emir Kusturica’s creative vision and love for traditional Serbian culture. This unique ethno village offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era while providing a tranquil retreat amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Learn more about this Serbian traditional ethno village, Drvengrad, in this article, including some interesting facts about the place, how to get there, what to see, and more.
Table of Contents
What Is Drvengrad?
Drvengrad (Wooden Town), also known as Küstendorf and Mecavnik, is a rustic and picturesque village built entirely of wood. It was constructed by Serbian filmmaker Emir Kusturica as a set for his film “Life is a Miracle” from 2003 to 2004 but has since evolved into a cultural and tourist attraction. Drvengrad is a blend of Serbian heritage, art, and architecture, reflecting Kusturica’s distinctive style and passion for preserving traditional values.
Where Is Emir Kusturica’s Drvengrad Located?
Drvengrad is located in western Serbia, near the beautiful mountainous village of Mokra Gora and the country’s border with Bosnia and Herzegovina (7 km away).
Interesting Facts About Drvengrad
- The village was designed and built using recycled materials, including wood and stone.
- Drvengrad hosts the annual Küstendorf Film and Music Festival, attracting filmmakers, musicians, and artists from around the world.
- Emir Kusturica himself resides in Drvengrad.
- The streets are named after notable figures that Kusturics holds in high esteem, including Nikola Tesla, Novak Djokovic, and Diego Maradona.
What to See and Do in Drvengrad
Stroll through the quaint streets lined with charming log houses, colorful doors, and artistic details. Key highlights include the St. Sava church, featuring a beautiful mosaic of the Serbian patron saint, and the whimsical red-and-yellow retro car parked near the village entrance. Drvengrad is also dotted with cultural landmarks like the Ivo Andrić Library and the Stanley Kubrick Cinema, reflecting Emir Kusturica’s homage to literary and cinematic legends.
In addition to its architectural and cultural attractions, Drvengrad offers delightful culinary experiences. Visitors can enjoy traditional Serbian dishes at the local restaurants or indulge in sweets at the local cafes and the village’s cake shop. The village also features a variety of artisanal shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, providing a perfect opportunity to take a piece of Drvengrad home with you.
Exploring the village of Drvengrad and everything that it has to offer takes no more than 2 to 3 hours.
There is also a sports hall, and rooms are available for rent.
How to Get to Drvengrad
The best and easiest way to reach Drvengrad is by car, offering a scenic drive through Serbia’s picturesque landscapes. Belgrade is 200 km away, taking 3 hours to reach the village from the Serbian capital. Alternatively, if you are visiting the village of Mokra Gora, Drvengrad is just a short 1.5-kilometer stroll or a quick drive away.
For travelers without access to a car, alternative routes include train journeys to nearby Užice or Zlatibor, followed by a short taxi ride to Drvengrad. Private tours are also available from various Serbian cities for those seeking a guided experience.
Where to Go After Visiting Drvengrad
After exploring Drvengrad, consider continuing your Serbian itinerary by visiting the stunning Tara National Park for outdoor activities such as hiking. You can also visit Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Zlatibor to experience and learn more about Serbia’s rich history, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife.
Alternatively, if this is your last stop on your Serbian itinerary and you are wondering where to continue your Balkan adventure, I recommend heading to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Only 118 km away from Drvengrad, you can go rafting in the beautiful Tara River Canyon, a great outdoor experience for nature lovers.
Conclusion
A visit to Drvengrad promises a unique cultural experience in Serbia, blending traditional architecture, artistic creativity, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Emir Kusturica’s ethno village is a great place to visit. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surrounding area.
I hope that this article gave you a good overview of Emir Kusturics’s traditional ethno village in Serbia, Drvengrad. If you have any additional questions or comments, please let me know in the comment section below, and don’t hesitate to contact me.
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Thank you for reading,
Bilyana
