Magacin Cultural Hub and Savamala Street Art

Why is it significant?

You have arrived at the Magacin Cultural Center on Kraljevića Marka Street, the vibrant creative engine of Savamala's modern artistic renaissance.

Key Facts

Open the walk

You have arrived at the Magacin Cultural Center on Kraljevića Marka Street, the vibrant creative engine of Savamala's modern artistic renaissance. Founded in 2007 within the former printing and distribution warehouse of the Nolit publishing house, Magacin was established as the first self-governing, independent cultural institution in the region, operating on the principles of free access, community solidarity, and artistic freedom.

Look around at the surrounding walls and alleys of Savamala, which are adorned with monumental street art murals created during international urban art festivals like Mikser. Renowned international muralists such as BLU, PichiAvo, and talented Serbian street artists like Artez have turned these historic brick walls into an open-air public art gallery confronting themes of urbanization, memory, and freedom.

The name Savamala derives from the combination of the river name Sava and the Turkish word mahala, meaning residential quarter or neighborhood. Originally a marshy settlement outside the Austrian fortifications, it was drained and systematically developed by Prince Miloš Obrenović in the 1830s. In the 2010s, Savamala became the birthplace of modern urban activism and grassroots cultural movements that revitalized the post-industrial district.

Inside Magacin's industrial spaces, contemporary dance companies rehearse, community print shops churn out screenprints, and experimental theatre troupes perform. The raw creative energy pulsing through these historic warehouse halls showcases Belgrade's underground creative vitality, proving that artistic passion and civic engagement can breathe new life into neglected urban spaces. The creative spirit of Magacin reflects the resilient underground energy of Belgrade's youth culture, demonstrating the power of grassroots artistic collaboration. This historic landmark stands as an enduring testament to the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Serbian capital. This historic landmark stands as an enduring testament to the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Serbian capital.

Return to Karađorđeva Street and proceed to the magnificent palace of the Belgrade Cooperative.