Manak’s House in Belgrade is a rare surviving example of early 19th-century Balkan urban architecture, built in 1830 by Manak Mihailović, an Aromanian immigrant from Macedonia. Originally serving as a tavern and bakery on the ground floor with living quarters above, the house reflects the layered cultural history of the Savamala district. Today, it hosts a permanent ethnographic exhibition curated from the collection of Hristifor Crnilović, a painter and passionate collector. The display features traditional attire and jewelry from southern Serbia, Kosovo, Metohija, and Macedonia, dating from the 19th century and early 20th century. Intricate headpieces, carved wood furnishings, musical instruments, and domestic objects offer insight into regional customs and craftsmanship. With its irregular shape and exposed wooden construction, Manak’s House stands as both a cultural monument and a gateway to Serbia’s folk heritage, preserving the artistry and traditions of a bygone era.
Belgrade SerbiaManak’s House is located at the corner of Kraljevića Marka and Gavrila Principa Streets (Gavrila Principa 5) in the Savamala district of Belgrade, just a short walk from the city center. As one of the rare preserved examples of old Balkan urban architecture, this 19th-century house stands today as a cultural monument and branch of the Ethnographic Museum, showcasing the rich folk tradition of Serbia through the unique collection of Hristifor Crnilović. The surrounding Savamala area is vibrant and central, featuring lively cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as cultural attractions such as the Museum of Illusions, the Monument to Stefan Nemanja, and the historic Zeleni Venac market. The Terazije Fountain and the stroll-friendly Knez Mihailova Street are also nearby, making Manak’s House an excellent starting point for an exploration of Belgrade’s urban and cultural pulse.