Where the atmosphere is an attraction in itself
Europe’s Youngest Capital: Pristina, Kosovo
Now, I wrote briefly about a few nuggets of history for Kosovo as a whole…so let’s talk about the capital city, Pristina. It’s optimistic, rife with potential, young and old mixed to perfection and the city is blanketed in mismatched architecture…it is such an enigma.
Pristina is the capital and also the University city so it is very lively during the day with people just living life and by night with a surprising party scene. While it is becoming more popular to visit as the world realizes it is a safe place to explore, it is still very much a ‘best kept secret’ of the Balkans.
Aesthetical appeal is not something you travel to Pristina for but you would visit this city for its infectious energy. When I say it is a mix of young and old to perfection…I mean that the traditions are deep and respected while racing to be modern.
If you look on a map you will see that the country is right in the middle of the Balkans and in my opinion kind of looks like a heart…making it the heart of the Balkans…just saying. Spread the word, Jackelyn says.
Just to reiterate, this is arguably one of the safest capitals in Europe.
spared by fate
Historic Ethnic Violence
With Pristina being the capital, one would think that it would be the main site of any upheaval. But with the capital being so central to the country and the majority of the historical violence occurring at the Northern Border with Serbia, when the NATO bombings happened in the 90s, Pristina was mostly spared.
Sightseeing?
A Mashup To Be Sure
Pristina is perhaps the perfect city because it isn’t packed with sightseeing choices, leaving you time to relax and enjoy life. The options though are a marvel without question.
Ethnographic Museum
This museum has some wonderful exhibits on life in Kosovo between the 15th and the 20th century on display in a restored Ottoman-era townhouse. Two beautifully preserved Ottoman houses enclosed in a large walled garden. On display are various unique pieces of clothing, weapons, jewelry, and household items, not to mention the townhouses themselves. To be honest, this was not the easiest place to find and all I can say is thank god I had a local tour guide navigating me around the city.
Clock Tower
This 26m-high sandstone and brick tower dates from the 19th century and was central to the bazaar area for when stalls should close for prayers. It is said that the authentic bell was stolen but the true history is unclear…
Newborn Monument
This iconic monument is a little worn for wear but symbolizes the countries fight for freedom and ongoing mission for worldwide recognition. It was unveiled on the day they declared independence from Serbia. It is repainted every year with a new face. At the unveiling of the monument it was announced that it will be painted differently on the anniversary of Kosovo’s independence movement day every year to celebrate another year of freedom.
One year, the monument was repainted to represent the flags of all the countries that recognized Kosovo’s independence. When I visited it was covered in multi colour hand prints.
National Library
By far the most interesting architecture I have seen to date. For a library, which are typically bright and light, this library it as far on the opposite spectrum of that it can get. It’s lines are confusing, it’s dark and steam punkish. Both futuristic and brutalist. Strange but a beloved masterpiece.
Easily one of Pristina’s most notable buildings, is was completed in 1982, has to be seen to be believed (like eggs wearing armour). It’s covered in 70+ small domes wrapped in metal cube shapes. It is said that the intent was to marry the Ottoman and Byzantine styles.
Assumption cathedral of Gracanica monastery
Just outside the capital, this was on our way so we stopped to explore these beautiful grounds. One thing you MUST remember when in many of these Eastern European countries is that in order to enter any religious structure you must be dressed respectably. This means no shorts or sleeveless tops for anyone, and headscarves for women, as well sadly photos are forbidden inside the building.
Southeast of Pristina in the Serbian town of Gračanica is the ancient Gračanica Monastery, completed in 1321 by Serbian king Milutin. The monastery, which is set on large, grassy grounds, is one of the most attractive in Kosovo. The medieval-era paintings here are impressive enough but the real treat is saved for the smaller side, chapel, which is an enchanted cavern of vivid, lifelike murals.
Please note that I have not received these products for free or at a discounted price in exchange for my opinion. There may be links that are affiliate links but at the time of posting this review, I have not received any monetary kickbacks.