Stara Pazova, Serbia
Region: Vojvodina
Geographic Coordinates: 44.983300, 20.166700
Climate: The climate and weather patterns in Stara Pazova, Serbia vary throughout the year.
Population: 71931
Language: Serbian
Stara Pazova is a charming town located in the northern part of Serbia, Nestled in the fertile plains of the historical region of Syrmia. With a population of around 20, 000 inhabitants, This picturesque town offers a unique blend of rich history, Cultural heritage, And natural beauty. One cannot talk about Stara Pazova without mentioning its fascinating history. The town dates back to Roman times when it was an important settlement on the route connecting Belgrade and Sirmium (now Sremska Mitrovica).
Throughout its long history, Stara Pazova has been influenced by various civilizations and empires such as the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, Austro-Hungarians, And more. This diverse past is reflected in its architecture and cultural traditions. The heart of Stara Pazova is its central square known as Trg Slobode (Freedom Square), Which serves as a hub for social gatherings and events. Here you can find several historical buildings that have been beautifully preserved or restored. One notable landmark is the Serbian Orthodox Church dedicated to Saint Nicholas that stands proudly at one end of the square.
The church’s architectural style combines elements from different periods ranging from Byzantine to Baroque. For those interested in exploring local culture and tradition, Stara Pazova offers several museums that provide insight into its past. The Museum Srem showcases archaeological artifacts from prehistoric times up until modern-day exhibits on local customs and traditions. Another must-visit museum is Museum Vojvodina, Which focuses on regional history with displays ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art exhibitions. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to marvel at in Stara Pazova’s surrounding countryside.
The nearby Fruska Gora National Park offers breathtaking landscapes with rolling hills covered in dense forests teeming with wildlife. Hiking trails wind through this nature reserve leading visitors to hidden monasteries dating back centuries ago such as Krusedol Monastery. The park is also known for its vineyards and wineries where visitors can taste local wines. Stara Pazova is a vibrant town that hosts various cultural events throughout the year. The annual Pazova Summer festival attracts people from all over Serbia with its diverse program of concerts, Theater performances, Art exhibitions, And traditional folklore dances.
This celebration of arts and culture reflects the town’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modern influences. Stara Pazova is a hidden gem in Serbia that offers a delightful mix of history, Culture, And natural beauty. From exploring historical landmarks to immersing oneself in local traditions or enjoying the tranquility of Fruska Gora National Park, This town has something for everyone. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking an escape into nature’s embrace, Stara Pazova will captivate you with its charm and leave lasting memories.
- Church of St. Nicholas: This Serbian Orthodox church is one of the main religious sites in the town. It features beautiful architecture and intricate frescoes.
- Monument to Fallen Soldiers: Located in the center of town, this monument pays tribute to soldiers who lost their lives during various wars.
- Cultural Center Božidarac: This cultural center hosts various events, including concerts, theater performances, exhibitions, and film screenings.
- Ethno House Bela Ladja: This traditional Serbian house showcases rural life from the past with its authentic decor and artifacts.
- The Old Mill (Stari Mlin): Situated on the banks of River Bosut, this old mill has been converted into a restaurant where visitors can enjoy traditional Serbian cuisine while enjoying picturesque views.
- Šimanovci Lake: Although not technically in Stara Pazova but nearby Šimanovci village, this artificial lake offers opportunities for fishing or simply enjoying nature walks around its shores.
- The Museum of Bread: Located just outside Stara Pazova in Inđija municipality, this unique museum showcases the history of breadmaking through exhibits displaying antique tools and machinery used throughout centuries.
While these landmarks may not attract tourists from far away like those found in bigger cities such as Belgrade or Novi Sad, they still offer interesting insights into local culture and history for those visiting or passing through Stara Pazova.
- Agriculture: Stara Pazova is known for its fertile land, making agriculture a significant industry. The region produces various crops such as corn, wheat, sunflower, fruits, and vegetables.
- Manufacturing: The town has a strong manufacturing sector with several companies engaged in the production of metal products, machinery and equipment, construction materials (bricks and tiles), chemicals, textiles, and food processing.
- Automotive Industry: Stara Pazova hosts a number of automotive companies that specialize in the production of car parts and components. These companies supply major automobile manufacturers both domestically and internationally.
- Logistics and Warehousing: Due to its strategic location near major transportation routes like highways and railways connecting Belgrade with Novi Sad, Stara Pazova has become an important hub for logistics services including warehousing facilities.
- Construction: With ongoing infrastructure development projects in Serbia including road construction projects nearby Stara Pazova (such as Belgrade-Novi Sad high-speed railway), construction companies play a significant role in the local economy.
- Retail Trade: As the population grows in Stara Pazova due to urbanization trends from nearby cities like Belgrade or Novi Sad seeking more affordable housing options or peaceful living environment outside urban centers; retail trade is expanding to meet consumer demands.
- Services Sector: Various service-oriented businesses have emerged to cater to the needs of residents such as healthcare facilities (hospitals/clinics), education institutions (schools/universities), hospitality industry (hotels/restaurants), banking services etc.
- Information Technology (IT): IT sector is growing rapidly throughout Serbia including smaller towns like Stara Pazova which are becoming attractive locations for IT companies due to lower costs compared to larger cities while still benefiting from well-educated workforce.
These industries contribute significantly to the local economy by providing employment opportunities for residents and contributing to the overall economic growth of the region.
- Battle of Stara Pazova (1718): This battle took place during the Austro-Turkish War and marked a significant victory for the Habsburg Monarchy over the Ottoman Empire.
- Serbian Uprising (1804): The first Serbian uprising against Ottoman rule began in Orašac, a village near Stara Pazova. It was led by Karađorđe Petrović, who later became the leader of modern Serbia.
- Jovan Subotić (1817-1886): Born in Stara Pazova, Jovan Subotić was a prominent politician and one of the founders of modern Serbia. He played an essential role in drafting Serbia’s first constitution.
- Stari Banovci Oil Refinery: Established in 1825, this oil refinery is one of Europe’s oldest refineries still operating today.
- Mihailo Pupin (1858-1935): A renowned Serbian-American scientist and inventor, Mihailo Pupin was born near Stara Pazova. He made significant contributions to telecommunications and X-ray technology.
- World War II: During World War II, Stara Pazova witnessed various important events related to resistance against Nazi occupation forces.
- Sava Centar: Located in Novi Beograd municipality but closely associated with Stara Pazova due to its proximity, Sava Centar is one of Europe’s largest convention centers and has hosted numerous international conferences since its opening in 1977.
- Miloš Obrenović III (1815-1839): As Prince Miloš Obrenović III ruled Serbia from 1839 until his assassination that same year when he was returning from Istanbul through Starčevo near Stara Pazova.
These are just a few examples of the notable historical events and people associated with Stara Pazova, Serbia. The region has a rich history that spans several centuries and continues to contribute to Serbian culture and heritage.
- Museum of the City of Stara Pazova: This museum showcases the history and cultural heritage of the town and its surroundings.
- Monument to Victims of Fascism: A memorial dedicated to the victims who lost their lives during World War II.
- Cultural Center Stanko Dragojevic: This center hosts various cultural events such as exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and film screenings.
- Church of Saint Nicholas: A beautiful Serbian Orthodox church known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
- Ethno Park Babina Reka: Located nearby in Belegiš village, this open-air museum exhibits traditional rural life with authentic houses from different periods.
- Church of Saint Trinity (Crkva Svetog Trojstva): Another notable Serbian Orthodox church featuring impressive frescoes inside.
- Memorial Park Borkovac: A peaceful park with a lake where visitors can relax or enjoy outdoor activities like walking or cycling.
- The House-Museum Vasa Stajić in Golubinci: Although not directly located in Stara Pazova but nearby Golubinci village, this museum is dedicated to Vasa Stajić – a prominent Serbian scientist and politician from the 19th century.
These attractions offer insights into the local history, culture, religion, and natural beauty surrounding Stara Pazova region.
- FK Omladinac Stara Pazova: Founded in 1945, FK Omladinac Stara Pazova is a football (soccer) club that competes in lower divisions of Serbian football leagues.
- KK Stara Pazova: KK Stara Pazova is a basketball club that participates in regional and local competitions.
- OK Jedinstvo Stara Pazova: OK Jedinstvo is a volleyball club based in Stara Pazova, which has been active for many years.
- TKK Sremac: TKK Sremac is a tennis club located in Stara Pazova that provides training and organizes local tournaments.
It’s important to note that these teams may not have extensive histories or notable achievements at the national level due to the town’s small size and limited resources for professional sports development.
- Stara Pazova Summer Fest – This event takes place during the summer months and includes various cultural performances, concerts, art exhibitions, and sports activities.
- Folklore Festival Zlatni srem – Held annually in September, this festival showcases traditional Serbian folklore dances and music from different regions of Serbia.
- Stara Pazova Wine Festival – Celebrated in October, this festival highlights the local wine production with wine tastings, vineyard tours, live music performances, and traditional food stalls.
- International Children’s Theater Festival Pozorište Zvezdarište – This festival brings together children’s theater groups from Serbia and abroad to perform plays for young audiences. It usually takes place in November.
- Serbian Orthodox Christmas Market – Held during the Christmas season in December, this market offers a variety of local products such as handicrafts, food specialties, sweets, and decorations related to Serbian Orthodox traditions.
- Days of Old Crafts Fair (Dani starih zanata) – This fair showcases traditional crafts such as pottery making, blacksmithing, weaving, woodworking, embroidery etc., providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about these ancient skills through demonstrations and workshops.
Please note that specific dates for these events may vary each year; therefore it is advisable to check the official websites or local sources for up-to-date information on dates and details of each event/festival.
- Kafana Kod Zdravka – A traditional Serbian restaurant known for its authentic cuisine, including dishes like cevapi, pljeskavica, and sarma.
- Restoran Šaran – Famous for its freshwater fish dishes, especially carp prepared in various ways.
- Restoran Selo – Offers a rustic atmosphere and serves traditional Serbian food such as grilled meats, homemade bread, and local cheeses.
- Picerija Bekrija – A pizza place that offers a variety of delicious pizzas with both classic and unique toppings.
- Restoran Dunavac – Located near the Danube River, this restaurant specializes in seafood dishes like grilled fish and seafood risotto.
- Kafana Gurman – Known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive menu featuring Serbian specialties like gibanica (cheese pie), kajmak (dairy spread), and rakija (fruit brandy).
- Restoran Plava Ruza – Offers a mix of international cuisine along with traditional Serbian dishes like roasted lamb or pork knuckle.
- Picerija Napoli – Another popular pizza place known for their thin-crust pizzas made with fresh ingredients.
These are just a few examples of the many local cuisine options available in Stara Pazova, Serbia.
Public Parks and Recreational Activities in Stara Pazova
- Park of Culture – A large park with walking paths, benches, and green spaces for picnics and relaxation.
- Sports Center Pinki – Offers various sports facilities such as tennis courts, football fields, basketball courts, and a swimming pool.
- Lake Borkovac – A beautiful lake surrounded by nature where visitors can enjoy fishing or go for a walk along the shore.
- Cycling Paths – Stara Pazova has several cycling paths that allow residents to explore the town and its surroundings on a bike.
- Horse Riding Club Galic – Offers horseback riding lessons and trails through the nearby countryside.
- Bowling Center Strike – A popular spot for bowling enthusiasts with multiple lanes available for play.
- Skating Rink – During winter months, an outdoor ice skating rink is set up in Stara Pazova where people can enjoy ice skating or watch hockey matches.
- Cultural Events in Town Square – The town square often hosts cultural events such as concerts, festivals, and exhibitions throughout the year.
These are just some examples of public parks and recreational activities available in Stara Pazova.
