PE “Belgrade Fortress” will continue to perform a large amount of conservation and restoration works on the Zindan Gate – Stage 1 in the forthcoming period. The works will be executed according to the project made by the Institute for Cultural Monument Protection of the City of Belgrade.

The project foresees the restoration of the collapsed vault of the gate passage, which would prevent further deterioration of this space. Upper surfaces of all vaults will be repaired, and ditch and water drainage works will be executed. The Arched Rampart area should have drainage pipes which will drain excess stormwater and thus reduce moisture penetration in the underground spaces inside the rampart, as well as the walls of the Ružica Church. For the entire area to be functional again, wooden ceilings are also planned for reconstruction in the towers, and the entrance doors and windows should be installed as well. Also, underground premises are to be renovated.

The Zindan Gate was erected in the middle of the 15th century for better protection of the Eastern Gate, which was the main city entrance at that time. The towers and arched rampart of this complex have seven cannon gun embrasures. In this place artillery defense system, that is, defense by firearms was first used. From these posts Belgrade successfully resisted the siege of Turks in 1456. During major Austrian works on the renovation of the Belgrade Fortress in the first middle of the 18th century, the complex of the Zindan Gate was thoroughly reconstructed. The towers got brick vaults and walled staircases with access hallways, whereas the arched rampart was reinforced with an earth embankment.

“KOTO” d.o.o., the Contractor, has come into possession of the site today, so it can be deemed that the 540-calendar-day deadline has commenced, which is the foreseen period of work execution.

These are very extensive and significant works aiming at preserving the cultural property and visitors’ safety.

During the works access roads will have to be occasionally secured and visitors’ movements redirected; the public will be timely informed about this.