Belgrade Post Museum

Belgrade Post Museum Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled at the crossroads of history, culture, and innovation, the Belgrade Post Museum offers an immersive exploration into the evolution of communication in the Balkans. Housed in the architecturally significant Old Post Office—an iconic example of Serbo-Byzantine Revival designed by Momir Korunović—the museum stands as a testament to Serbia’s journey toward modernization and cultural identity (Belgrade Waterfront; Post of Serbia).

The museum curates Serbia’s postal and telecommunication history from its early Ottoman-era couriers through landmark achievements such as the first Serbian post office in 1840 and founding membership in the Universal Postal Union in 1874. Its extensive collections—ranging from stamps and uniforms to telegraph and telephone equipment—offer visitors a rich, interactive experience (Culture in Belgrade, Wikipedia).

With accessible visiting hours, affordable ticket prices, and a central location near Sava Square and Republic Square, the museum is an inviting destination for families, history enthusiasts, and international travelers. Ongoing restoration work promises to restore the Old Post Office’s original grandeur, further enhancing its role as a cultural landmark (Belgrade Waterfront).

This guide provides comprehensive information on the museum’s history, exhibits, visitor logistics, and neighboring attractions—ensuring a memorable and insightful visit to one of Belgrade’s most distinctive historical sites.

Historical Background and Architectural Significance

Origins and Evolution of Postal Services in Serbia

Serbia’s postal history extends back over 185 years, beginning with informal Ottoman-era courier systems. The first formal postal network emerged in 1805 during the First Serbian Uprising, and by 1830, an imperial edict allowed Serbia to organize its own postal services. The nation’s first post office opened in Belgrade in 1840, later followed by Kragujevac, setting the foundation for a modern public utility (Post of Serbia).

Key milestones include the introduction of postage stamps in 1866, Serbia’s role as a founding member of the Universal Postal Union in 1874, and the establishment of the first telephone line in Belgrade in 1883. Throughout the 20th century, Serbia’s postal services continued to modernize, integrating new communication technologies and expanding their reach.

Construction and Evolution of the Old Post Office Belgrade

Constructed in the late 1920s and completed in 1929, the Old Post Office (originally Post Office No. 2) was designed by Momir Korunović, known as the “Serbian Gaudi” for his ornate, national-style architecture (Belgrade Waterfront). Located at 2 Savska Street, near key transportation and cultural hubs, the building became a symbol of Belgrade’s modernization.

Korunović’s design, an exemplar of Serbo-Byzantine Revival, featured lavish ornamentation, arches, domes, and intricate stonework. The building’s grandeur quickly made it a city landmark, featured on postcards and admired for its blend of tradition and innovation (Wikipedia).

Wartime Destruction and Postwar Reconstruction

World War II brought devastation to the Old Post Office, with Allied bombings destroying much of its original façade and interior (Wikipedia). The 1947 reconstruction adopted a functionalist style, stripping the building of its decorative elements to reflect the era’s utilitarian ethos, yet it remained a vital hub for communication services.

Restoration and Modern Significance

After decades of neglect, the Old Post Office is being restored as part of the Belgrade Waterfront urban renewal project. Restoration efforts are guided by Korunović’s original plans and archival materials, aiming to revive the building’s pre-war splendor while adapting it for new cultural uses, including space for the Archaeological Museum and theater stages (Belgrade Waterfront). The site will remain public property and is slated to reopen in its restored form by the end of 2026.

The Belgrade Post Museum: Collections and Visitor Experience

Permanent Collections

Postal History: Artifacts trace the evolution of Serbian postal services from Ottoman-era relay stations to modern networks. Key objects include early mail coaches, relay station memorabilia, and postal uniforms.
Philatelic Collection: Over 100,000 stamps and postal items, including Serbia’s first postage stamp (1866), rare issues from different historical periods, and thematic exhibits highlighting cultural milestones.
Telegraph and Telephone Artifacts: Early Morse code transmitters, switchboards, ornate telephones, and a working replica of Serbia’s first telegraph line (1855).
Uniforms and Equipment: Historic uniforms, hand stamps, and mail sorters, contextualized with archival photographs.
Postal Vehicles: Vintage bicycles, motorcycles, and vans used for mail delivery across Serbia.

Temporary and Thematic Exhibitions

Rotating Philatelic Shows: Marking anniversaries or highlighting themes such as “Women on Serbian Stamps” or “Postal Services During Wartime.”
Wartime Communication: Censored correspondence, field post offices, and artifacts documenting innovation during conflict.
Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on experiences like Morse code messaging, mail sorting, and stamp design workshops for children and school groups.

Visitor Amenities

Interactive Displays: Visitors can send postcards with vintage postmarks, operate a telegraph, and explore reconstructed 19th-century post office settings.
Guided Tours: Offered in Serbian and English, available by reservation, ideal for deeper exploration of exhibits.
Gift Shop: Philatelic souvenirs, books, and collectibles.
Accessibility: Wheelchair access, elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Family-friendly facilities include baby-changing stations and stroller access.

Visiting Information

Hours and Admission

Address: Kralja Petra 20, Belgrade, Serbia (Check the official website for updates)
Visiting Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; closed Mondays and major public holidays
Ticket Prices: Adults: 300–500 RSD; Students/Seniors: 150–300 RSD; Children under 7: Free
Tickets: Available at entrance and online. Discounts for groups, students, and seniors. Admission is often free on the first Sunday of each month (National Museum in Belgrade; Visit Belgrade).

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Wheelchair Accessible: Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms
Guided Tours: Book in advance for English-language tours
Photography: Allowed without flash in most areas (restrictions may apply to special exhibits)
Locker Storage: Secure lockers for personal belongings

Location and Getting There

Centrally located near Republic Square and Knez Mihailova Street, the museum is easily accessible by tram, bus, or on foot. Parking is available at nearby garages, but spaces may be limited (Visit Belgrade). The museum’s proximity to Sava Square, the Belgrade Main railway station, and the Monument to Stefan Nemanja makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Belgrade’s rich historic districts.

Highlights and Visitor Tips

Allocate 1–2 hours for your visit; philatelists or history enthusiasts may wish to stay longer.
Check the website for temporary exhibitions and special events.
Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like the National Museum of Serbia, Kalemegdan Fortress, and Knez Mihailova Street.
Enjoy interactive activities—children and families will appreciate hands-on exhibits and educational programs.
Best Times: Spring and autumn are pleasant and less crowded (Destination Abroad).
Food: No café on-site, but numerous dining options are nearby (The Office Belgrade).

Nearby Attractions

National Museum of Serbia: Art and history from prehistory to the modern era (National Museum in Belgrade).
Kalemegdan Fortress: Panoramic views and historical significance (The Tourist Checklist).
Knez Mihailova Street: Shopping, cafés, and historic architecture.
Savamala District: Contemporary art, nightlife, and creative spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults 300–500 RSD; discounts for students, seniors, and groups; children under 7 are free.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed in most areas; some restrictions apply.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, by reservation.

Q: Is the museum suitable for families?
A: Absolutely—interactive exhibits and workshops make it ideal for children.

Q: How do I get tickets?
A: At the entrance or online via the official website.

Digital Resources

Explore virtual tours and online exhibitions via the official museum website, perfect for planning your visit or discovering the collection from afar.

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

The Belgrade Post Museum is a cornerstone of Serbia’s communication heritage, offering a compelling blend of history, technology, and national identity. Situated in the restored Old Post Office, an architectural gem by Momir Korunović, the museum provides interactive experiences, educational programs, and a welcoming environment for all visitors (Belgrade Waterfront; Post of Serbia; Culture in Belgrade, Wikipedia).

With ongoing restoration and revitalization, the museum’s future as a vibrant cultural and educational hub is assured. Plan your visit today, check for special exhibitions and events, and enhance your journey with digital resources including the Audiala app. Delve into Serbia’s fascinating communication history and experience one of Belgrade’s must-visit historical sites.