Petrovaradin Fortress, Novi Sad

Petrovaradin Fortress, known as the "Gibraltar on the Danube," is a mighty historical landmark that presides over the river in the city of Novi Sad, Serbia. Constructed between the late 17th and early 18th centuries during the reign of the Habsburg Monarchy, this architectural marvel was designed to fortify the region against Ottoman incursions. With its extensive underground tunnels and imposing ramparts, Petrovaradin Fortress stands as a testament to the military strategies of its era and is one of the most significant European fortifications of the period.

The fortress is perched atop a ridge on the right bank of the Danube River, offering panoramic views of Novi Sad and the surrounding landscapes. Its strategic location has played a pivotal role throughout history, serving as a critical military outpost and witnessing numerous battles.

Petrovaradin Fortress is not only an archaeological site but also a cultural hub. It houses the City Museum of Novi Sad, with collections that showcase the region's history, art, and archaeology. The fortress's old barracks and storehouses have been repurposed into studios and galleries for artists and craftsmen, infusing the ancient walls with contemporary creativity.

One of the most distinctive features of the fortress is its clock tower, with its unique clock face where the small hand shows minutes while the large hand indicates hours—a design made to allow fishermen on the Danube to tell the time from a distance.

Today, Petrovaradin Fortress is perhaps best known as the venue for the annual EXIT Festival, one of Europe's premier music festivals, which draws international audiences and performers to its historic grounds every summer.

Open to visitors year-round, the fortress offers guided tours through its labyrinthine subterranean tunnels and along its ramparts. Guests can enjoy a stroll through the well-preserved fortress, dine in restaurants with a view of the river, or simply watch the sunset from one of the highest points in the city.