Skull Tower
Jablanički okrug
Skull Tower, or Ćele Kula, is a distinctive historical monument located on the outskirts of Niš, Serbia. It was constructed by Ottoman forces in 1809 after the Battle of Čegar during the First Serbian Uprising, using the skulls of fallen Serbian rebels as a brutal warning against resistance. Originally, the tower contained 952 skulls arranged in 14 rows on each of its four sides, embedded in a quadrangular stone and lime structure approximately four meters high. The skulls faced outward to serve as a grim deterrent. Over time, many skulls were removed by local Christians for burial despite Turkish prohibitions. Following the liberation of Niš in 1878, the tower was preserved and protected by a chapel built in 1892 designed by architect Dimitrije Leko. Today, 58 skulls remain visible, and the site serves as a poignant museum and cultural monument of exceptional importance in Serbia. The tower commemorates the sacrifice of Serbian fighters led by Stevan Sinđelić and stands as a symbol of national resistance and remembrance. The surrounding area includes a monument with Sinđelić's bust and a relief depicting the Battle of Čegar, enhancing the site's historical narrative.
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Tip: The best time to visit Skull Tower is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the site is less crowded. It is advisable to buy tickets in advance from the National Museum of Niš to avoid queues, especially during holidays and commemorative events. Visitors should respect the solemn nature of the monument and the chapel. Guided tours are recommended for a deeper understanding of the historical context and significance. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The site is accessible by public transport or car from the city center of Niš.
Interesting facts
- •The tower originally contained 952 skulls arranged in 14 rows on each side.
- •Only 58 skulls remain visible today due to removal and natural decay.
- •The tower was built as a warning to discourage further Serbian uprisings against Ottoman rule.
- •Hurshid Pasha paid 25 coins for each skull used in the tower.
- •A chapel designed by architect Dimitrije Leko was built over the tower in 1892 to protect it.
- •The monument includes a bust of Stevan Sinđelić and a relief depicting the Battle of Čegar, created by sculptor Slavko Miletić.
History
Skull Tower was built in 1809 by order of Hurshid Pasha, the Ottoman commander of Niš, following the Battle of Čegar where Serbian rebels led by Stevan Sinđelić were defeated.
The tower was constructed by embedding the skulls of approximately 952 fallen Serbian fighters into a quadrangular stone structure as a warning to others.
Over the years, many skulls were clandestinely removed and buried by local Christians despite Ottoman restrictions.
The tower remained exposed until the liberation of Niš in 1878, after which it was fenced and roofed to prevent further decay.
In 1892, a chapel was erected over the tower, designed by architect Dimitrije Leko, to protect and honor the monument.
The site has since been preserved as a cultural and historical symbol of Serbian resistance against Ottoman rule.
Place Guide
Skull Tower Structure1809
The main quadrangular tower is made of stone, lime, and mortar, originally standing about four meters high, with human skulls embedded in its walls facing outward as a grim reminder of the battle.
Chapel over Skull Tower1892
Built in 1892 and designed by architect Dimitrije Leko, the chapel shelters the tower from weather damage and honors the fallen Serbian rebels.
Monument of Stevan Sinđelić1938
Located in front of the tower, this monument features a bust of the Serbian rebel leader Stevan Sinđelić and a relief depicting the Battle of Čegar, sculpted by Slavko Miletić in 1938.
Contact
Phone: 018 222228
