Nestled among the peaceful beauty of Mokra Gora Nature Park in Serbia, there is a place of enchantment and cinematic appeal – Drvengrad. This ethnic village, also known as Kustendorf, is proof of the creative genius of Serbian director Emir Kusturica.
Drvengrad is located on Mećavnik hill, a picturesque location between Tara and Zlatibor mountains. The idyllic setting of the village offers a breathtaking panorama of nature’s splendor, making it a paradise for tourists seeking peace and inspiration.
As you enter Drvengrad, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook realm. The village is a rectangular wonderland with a central wooden square, charming wooden houses and a Christian Orthodox church dedicated to Saint Sava. The streets themselves are named after famous people, from the Nobel laureate Ivo Andric to legendary figures like Che Guevara, Maradona and Novak Djokovic.
Drvengrad is not only a visual delight, it is a cultural center. The village boasts an art gallery, a library in honor of Ivo Andrić and a cinema called “Underground”, based on one of Kusturica’s most famous films. In addition, there is a restaurant serving traditional Serbian food, a pastry shop filled with homemade sweets, and a souvenir shop.
One of the most important moments of Drvengrad is the annual Kustendorf film festival, founded by Emir Kusturica. This unique event brings together filmmakers, renowned actors, directors and musicians. The ceremony of the festival is the “burial of bad films”, a tradition that adds to the mystical charm of the village.
To complete your experience in Drvengrad, board the “Ćira”, an old steam train that runs along the Šargan Eight railway line. This 12-kilometer track is a marvel of engineering, winding through rocky gorges in a characteristic figure-eight shape and conquering an altitude difference of 300 meters between Mokra Gora and Shargan.
Whether you’re a movie buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a magical escape, Drvengrad promises an unforgettable experience that will transport you to a world of wonder.