Sightseeing of Petrovaradin Fortress from Novi Sad

Serbs call it Petrovaradinska Tvrdjava, Hungarians say Péterváradi vár, Germans know it as Peterwardein. It is probably best known as the Gibraltar on Danube, and the symbol of Novi Sad. It was built on the 21.000-year-old foundations by the best fortification architecture at the time - the famous French architecture Voban. It is truly a masterpiece. It was built through history by Romans, Turks, Austrians but the oldest findings date from 19.000 B.C. It lived to see many wars, and outlived many rulers. The Petrovaradin Fortress played a great role in the history of Novi Sad and Petrovaradin as a part of the city. During the XVIII century, the construction of system of tunnels began and ended four levels, with a total length of 16 km. That is much known for now.

Further excavations may reveal more hidden corridors and levels. You will get the chance to explore the first two levels with a professional guide, of course. Some people even say that there is still a tunnel connecting Novi Sad with the Petrovaradin Fortress beneath the Danube. Others say that mysterious creatures are deep under the fortress in the dungeons and catacombs. It may be the case that the fortress saved the city of Novi Sad through the centuries, in 1849. During the Hungarian Revolution, the same city of Novi Sad was bombed from the Petrovaradin Fortress, and 2/3 of the city were destroyed.

Nowadays, the Petrovaradin fortress is no longer in use as a military object. It has become a tourist attraction, and a favorite place of locals for walking and relaxing. There are several cafes and restaurants offering great domestic food, beverages, excellent wine, brandy and draft beer. From one of the terraces, on the fortress spreads a stunning view of the city of Novi Sad and the Danube River. Petrovaradin Fortress is best known in the world as the place where annually music festival EXIT is held, and it attracts several hundred thousands of music lovers every year.