Drvengrad
Zlatiborski okrug
Drvengrad, also known as Küstendorf or Mecavnik, is an ethno-village located in Mokra Gora within the Zlatibor district of Serbia. Conceived and constructed by the renowned film director Emir Kusturica for his movie "Life Is a Miracle," it sits atop the Mecavnik hill, approximately 680 meters above sea level. The village is designed as a rectangular settlement with a main street running through it, culminating in a small wooden Orthodox church dedicated to Saint Sava, built in the style of Russian log churches. Authentic wooden houses, some relocated from nearby regions including Republika Srpska, are placed on stone foundations, preserving traditional architecture. Drvengrad hosts various cultural amenities typical of a town, such as the Mecavnik hotel, the Macola art gallery, the Sreten Marić bookstore, the underground Underground cinema, the Anica confectionery offering homemade cakes and natural juices, the national restaurant Lotika, and a local crafts shop. Streets are named after prominent cultural and scientific figures, including Ivo Andrić, Ernesto Che Guevara, Diego Maradona, and Novak Djokovic. The village has been recognized by the Brussels Foundation for Architecture as one of Europe's best architectural achievements in recent years. Drvengrad also serves as a venue for cultural events like the "Homeland Days" and the "Küstendorf Film Festival." This unique blend of traditional architecture, cultural homage, and artistic vitality makes Drvengrad a compelling destination for visitors interested in Balkan heritage and contemporary cultural expression.
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Tip: The best time to visit Drvengrad is during late spring to early autumn when cultural events like the "Homeland Days" and the "Küstendorf Film Festival" take place. It is advisable to book accommodation and tickets in advance, especially during festival periods. Visitors can explore the village on foot, enjoy local cuisine at the national restaurant Lotika, and visit the art gallery and underground cinema. Discounts may be available for students and groups. The nearby narrow-gauge railway "Šargan Eight" offers scenic rides and can be combined with a visit to Drvengrad.
Interesting facts
- •Drvengrad is also known as Küstendorf, a name derived from the nickname of its creator Emir Kusturica.
- •The village was built specifically for the filming of Kusturica's movie "Life Is a Miracle" but later became a permanent settlement and cultural site.
- •The wooden church in Drvengrad is dedicated to Saint Sava and modeled after traditional Russian log churches.
- •Streets in Drvengrad are named after famous figures such as Ivo Andrić, Ernesto Che Guevara, Diego Maradona, and Novak Djokovic.
- •Drvengrad has been recognized by the Brussels Foundation for Architecture as one of the best architectural achievements in Europe in recent years.
- •The village holds the Küstendorf Film Festival, attracting filmmakers and artists from around the world.
History
Drvengrad was founded and built by Emir Kusturica as a film set for his 2004 movie "Life Is a Miracle." The village was constructed on Mecavnik hill, blending traditional wooden architecture with modern cultural functions.
Over time, it evolved from a film set into a permanent ethno-village and cultural center, gaining recognition for its unique architectural style.
In recent years, Drvengrad was awarded by the Brussels Foundation for Architecture as one of the best European architectural projects.
It has also become a hub for cultural festivals and events, enhancing its role beyond a mere tourist attraction.
Place Guide
Saint Sava Wooden Church2000s
A small wooden Orthodox church built in the style of Russian log churches, dedicated to Saint Sava, serving as the spiritual center of Drvengrad.
Main Street (Ivo Andrić Street)
The central street of Drvengrad, named after Nobel laureate Ivo Andrić, lined with authentic wooden houses and cultural establishments.
Macola Art Gallery
An art gallery showcasing works by various artists, contributing to Drvengrad's vibrant cultural scene.
Underground Cinema (Cinema Underground)
A unique cinema located underground, providing a distinctive movie-watching experience within Drvengrad.
Hotel Mecavnik
A mountain-style hotel offering accommodation within Drvengrad, blending traditional architecture with modern comfort.
