It is the most well-known and the first officially named street in Belgrade. Knez Mihailova Street connects Terazije square and Belgrade’s Fortress and represents the main promenade, the historical and cultural center, but at the same time the main shopping zone as well as an area crammed with restaurants and bars.
Knez Mihailova Street was always an important part of Belgrade. It is assumed that even during the Roman period this was the center of Singidunum while during the Turkish period this area was covered with numerous gardens and paths, fountains and mosques. After the regulation plan of Belgrade was defined in the 19th century, this area was inhabited by the most prominent and richest families of the commercial and political milieu of Belgrade. They started to build beautiful houses and buildings, creating an area that is nowadays protected by law and represents one of the oldest and most significant parts of the city.
At the beginning of the Knez Mihailova Street there is Trg Republike (the Republic Square) which is also the most popular meeting place of the residents. Also, you will see here two of the most important cultural monuments, The National Theatre and The National Museum.
As the most beautiful buildings in Knez Mihailova Street, the building of SANU (Serbian Academy of Science and Art) stands out. This beautiful building, constructed in combination of different architectural styles, usually draws admirations of the passers-by.
Towards the end of the street there is Belgrade’s Library. In this building, constructed in 1869 in romanticism style, at first Hotel Serbian Crown was located, after which for a short period this building even hosted the collection of the National Library of Serbia.
Before the construction of large shopping malls in the city, Knez Mihailova Street was Belgrade’s main shopping zone. Even today, this street manages to fight off the competition and therefore one can still find stores of some world famous brands here.
An important part of the charm of this street also comes from the numerous cafes and restaurants where after a long walk you can lift his you spirits with a coffee or something stronger or even enjoy the traditional Serbian cuisine or some of the popular world cuisines. Finally, the charm and ambient of the street is created by street artists and musicians who can be found almost on every corner of the street.
Interesting facts
