In the shadow of modern buildings and wide avenues, Podgorica preserves a fragment of antiquity – the Stara Varoš quarter (meaning “Old Town”). This is the only place in Montenegro’s capital where you can experience the atmosphere of the Ottoman era, stroll along narrow cobbled streets, and admire Eastern architecture.

History of Stara Varoš

Stara Varoš developed between the 15th-17th centuries when Podgorica (then known as Burgurice) was under Ottoman rule. The Turks built a fortress, mosques, baths, and market rows here, transforming the city into an important administrative center.

After liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878, Podgorica began to change, but Stara Varoš retained its Eastern character. Unfortunately, many buildings were destroyed during World War II bombings, and some historic structures were demolished during the socialist period. Nevertheless, several key landmarks survived and remain symbols of the city today.

Main Attractions

1. Clock Tower (Sahat-kula)
Built in 1667, this is the only remaining tower of five that once stood in Ottoman Podgorica.
Height: 16 meters, with antique clocks imported from Italy in the 19th century.
Adjacent to Bećir-beg Omerović Square – the heart of the old quarter.

2. Osmanagić Mosque (Podgorica Mosque)
Constructed in the 18th century, destroyed in 1944, and rebuilt in 2015.
Notable for its pink facade and elegant 42-meter minaret.
One of the few active mosques in the city.

3. Adži-paša Bridge (Roman Bridge)
A stone bridge over the Ribnica River built in the 18th century on ancient Roman foundations.
During Ottoman times, a covered bazaar stood nearby, though it hasn’t survived.

4. Ređepagić House
One of the last examples of Ottoman residential architecture in Podgorica.
Now houses a cultural center with exhibitions and a café.

5. Stara Varoš Streets
Narrow, stone-paved alleys with low houses and traditional balconies.
Small shops sell Turkish coffee, spices, and traditional sweets.

Things to Do in Stara Varoš

• Sip Turkish coffee at authentic cafés like “Stara Varoš” or “Kod Krsta”

• Shop for handmade souvenirs: copperware, carpets, and Eastern sweets

• Photograph historic buildings with Oriental ornamentation

• Climb Gorica Hill for panoramic views of the entire quarter

How to Get There

• On foot from central Podgorica (10-15 minutes from Millennium Bridge)

• By bus to stops “Stara Varoš” or “Trg Bećir-bega Osmanagića”

Why Visit?

• Unique atmosphere: The only place in Podgorica where you can feel its Ottoman past

• Striking contrast with modern architecture: Just 500 meters from skyscrapers and shopping centers

• Few tourists: Unlike Stari Bar or Kotor, you won’t find crowds here

Conclusion

Stara Varoš is an open-air living museum where time seems to have stopped centuries ago. If you want to see a different Podgorica – not a concrete capital but a city with Eastern charm – be sure to wander these streets. The best time to visit is morning or evening when the heat subsides and soft light adds even more enchantment to this special place.