Avala rises just south of Belgrade and is one of the capital’s favourite escapes into nature. Forests, walking paths, picnic areas and panoramic viewpoints make the mountain an easy destination for a half-day or full-day excursion.
The Monument to the Unknown Hero
At the summit stands the Monument to the Unknown Hero, one of Avala’s best-known landmarks. Designed by sculptor Ivan Meštrović and built in the 1930s on the site of the former medieval fortress of Žrnov, it commemorates an unidentified Serbian soldier whose remains were discovered there after the First World War.
The monument’s elevated position and monumental stone architecture give the summit a solemn atmosphere, while the surrounding plateau provides broad views over the landscape around Belgrade.
Avala Tower
Another symbol of the mountain is Avala Tower. The original television tower was destroyed in 1999 and later rebuilt. The present tower once again dominates the skyline and offers visitors an observation point high above the surrounding forests and plains.
Nature and Recreation
Avala is a protected natural area with marked paths, rest areas and recreational facilities. Its proximity to Belgrade makes it particularly popular for walking, cycling, family outings and weekend picnics.
A visit can easily combine the mountain’s natural surroundings with its major landmarks, making Avala one of the most accessible places to experience both Serbian history and nature without travelling far from the capital.
