The copper-coiled tower that rose before me was simultaneously fascinating and frightening. I knew the enormous Tesla Coil had the ability to create lightning bolts that could fry a person. Our guide eased my nervousness, explaining that we would be perfectly safe, as electricity channeled through the coil would seek the highest conductive point in … Read more
Local legend says that this geologic formation in southern Serbia was created when a furious God turned a wedding party to stone. Known as Devil’s Town, the spires are formed when softer volcanic tufa that lies below a hard layer of andesite rock is eroded by wind and water. Known as “hoodoos” by geologists, there … Read more
The Serbian Orthodox Manasija Monastery near Despotovac, Serbia, was built in the 15th century. It includes a church, refectory, and fortress with 11 towers, and is still in use today as a church and nunnery.
“Whatever you do, don’t take the train to Serbia!” my tour guide exclaimed. “The best way to visit Serbia from Zagreb is to take the bus.” Unfortunately, I’d already purchased my train ticket. On the morning of my departure, fearing the worst, I climbed aboard a decrepit, graffiti covered train to find a surprisingly clean … Read more
Belgrade Fortress, in Kalemegdan Park in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. These fortifications stood guard over the Danube River, the most important trading route during Medieval days and the major source of income for the city, as it had the right to collect tolls from vessels using the river to transport goods.
