Veliki Crljeni

Veliki Crljeni Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites in Belgrade, Serbia

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Veliki Crljeni’s Historical and Cultural Significance

Located on the southern outskirts of Belgrade, Veliki Crljeni is a village that stands at the crossroads of Serbia’s industrial heritage and contemporary environmental transformation. Part of the Lazarevac municipality, Veliki Crljeni is most notable for the Kolubara A thermal power plant, a facility established in 1956 which played a pivotal role in Serbia’s industrialization during the socialist era. While the power plant itself is not a conventional tourist attraction, its presence and the surrounding Kolubara coal basin offer rare insights for visitors interested in industrial tourism, energy history, and Serbia’s evolving sustainability goals.

The village is closely linked to Lazarevac, a nearby town rich in cultural and historical landmarks. Notable attractions include the Church of St. Demetrius—Serbia’s largest World War I necropolis—the artistic Kamengrad Park, and the Modern Gallery Lazarevac. Together, these sites present a tapestry of local traditions, Orthodox Christian customs, and the enduring legacy of mining communities.

Veliki Crljeni is easily accessible from Belgrade via road, bus, or rail, making it a practical destination for day trips or short getaways. While public access to the Kolubara A power plant is limited, occasional organized tours through cultural organizations or the Energy Museum of Serbia provide rare opportunities for guided exploration. The area also features vibrant local markets, scenic countryside, and frequent community events. Importantly, Veliki Crljeni is at the forefront of Serbia’s energy transition, with national policies focused on decarbonization, environmental restoration, and sustainable tourism.

This comprehensive guide covers the essentials: visiting hours, ticketing, key attractions, travel logistics, cultural etiquette, and the latest environmental updates, ensuring a rewarding and informed visit.

For the most current details, always consult official resources:

Welcome to Veliki Crljeni: Discover Serbia’s Historic Energy Hub
Visiting Veliki Crljeni and Kolubara A Power Plant
Historical Highlights of Kolubara A
Environmental and Social Story
Recent Developments and the Future
Practical Information for Visitors
Exploring Veliki Crljeni: Attractions, Hours, Tickets, and Culture
Environmental and Infrastructure Updates
Tourism and Visitor Information
Suggested Itineraries & FAQ
Summary and Recommendations
References and Official Links

1. Welcome to Veliki Crljeni: Discover Serbia’s Historic Energy Hub

Veliki Crljeni stands as a testament to Serbia’s industrial evolution. The Kolubara A power plant, though primarily operational and not generally open to the public, symbolizes the nation’s mid-20th-century energy ambitions. Today, visitors are drawn to the area’s unique combination of industrial legacy and rural Serbian culture, with opportunities to observe the ongoing shift toward sustainability.

2. Visiting Veliki Crljeni and Kolubara A Power Plant

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Kolubara A Power Plant: Not routinely open to the public; access is strictly regulated due to safety. Occasional group tours may be arranged via the Energy Museum of Serbia or local cultural organizations. Always check with the Lazarevac Municipality or EPS for the latest information.
Church of St. Demetrius: Open daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; free entry, donations welcome.
Modern Gallery Lazarevac: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; entry ~200 RSD (~2 EUR), discounts for students and seniors.
Kamengrad Park: Open during daylight hours year-round; free entry.

Accessibility and Travel Tips

By Road: 40 km southwest of Belgrade; accessible via A2 motorway or regional roads.
By Bus: Regular services from Belgrade’s main bus station to Lazarevac, with onward local connections.
By Train: Belgrade–Lazarevac line offers convenient and scenic travel.

Plan ahead, especially for weekends, as public transport may be less frequent. Parking is generally available but may be limited during events.

Nearby Attractions

Lazarevac Town Center: Markets, cafes, and cultural venues.
Kolubara Coal Basin: Guided tours available through cultural centers.
Baroševac Mineral Springs: A local natural attraction for relaxation and recreation.

3. Historical Highlights of Kolubara A

Established: 1956, initially with two 32 MW units, later expanding to five units (total capacity 271 MW).
Role: Critical in post-war industrialization and regional development.
Context: Symbolizes Serbia’s energy sector under socialism and its transition to modern energy policy.

Kolubara A’s legacy is intertwined with both economic progress and environmental challenges. Coal mining and power generation have affected air, water, and soil quality, prompting local activism, such as the group Za zdravije sutra (“For a Healthier Tomorrow”), focused on public health and cleaner air (Balkan Green Energy News).

5. Recent Developments and the Future

With Serbia’s adoption of its National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) in 2024, major steps are underway to phase out coal-based power and invest in sustainable infrastructure (GEM Wiki). Projects such as the “Čista Srbija” (Clean Serbia) initiative, a €3.2 billion investment in wastewater treatment, signal positive change (Support4Partnership).

6. Practical Information for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant festivals.
Photography: Permitted from public areas; respect restrictions near industrial sites.
Events: Annual commemorations at the Church of St. Demetrius, local fairs, and seasonal festivals.

7. Exploring Veliki Crljeni: Attractions, Hours, Tickets, and Culture

Key Attractions

Kolubara Mining Complex: Central to the region’s identity.
Church of St. Demetrius: Mausoleum for 40,000 WWI soldiers.
Kamengrad Park: Open-air sculpture park by Bogosav Živković.
Modern Gallery Lazarevac: Art and industry exhibitions.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided tours can be booked at the Lazarevac Cultural Center and often include the mining complex, art venues, and historical sites.

Cultural and Community Life

Experience local hospitality at village fairs (vašari), traditional religious celebrations (Slava), and community performances.

Accessibility

Most sites are accessible, but some historic buildings may have limited wheelchair access.

Local Etiquette

Dress modestly in churches, participate respectfully in local customs, and greet hosts warmly.

8. Environmental and Infrastructure Updates

Environmental Progress

Decarbonization: Serbia’s NECP commits to halting new coal power projects (GEM Wiki).
Water and Waste Management: Major upgrades underway, including improved sewage systems.
Air Quality: Monitored regularly; sensitive visitors should check reports, especially in winter.

Infrastructure

Transportation: Enhanced road and rail connections improve access (Trade.gov).
Digital Amenities: Broadband expansion ongoing.
Sustainable Tourism: Veliki Crljeni is being positioned for responsible rural tourism (Serbia.com).

9. Tourism and Visitor Information

Getting There

By Bus: Regular, affordable connections to Lazarevac and Belgrade (TOB.rs).
By Car: Straightforward from Belgrade; parking available.
By Train: Convenient for scenic travel.

Local Transportation

Bus Tickets: 89 RSD (90-min ride at kiosks), 150 RSD onboard. Day/multi-day passes available.
Taxi: Widely available; confirm fares in advance.

Dining and Accommodation

Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Serbian dishes and rakija in local taverns.
Lodging: Guesthouses in Veliki Crljeni; hotels and motels in Lazarevac and Belgrade.

Customs & Etiquette

Hospitality: Warm greetings, accept offers of coffee or rakija, tip 10% in restaurants.
Dress: Modest attire in religious and formal settings.

Practical Tips

Language: Serbian is primary; English widely understood in tourist settings.
Currency: Serbian dinar (RSD); cards accepted in urban areas.
Safety: Generally safe; standard precautions apply.
Weather: Best to visit April–May or September–October (Gamin Traveler).
Connectivity: Good mobile/Wi-Fi coverage.
Health: No special vaccinations needed; tap water is safe.

Official Information

Customs: Understand local regulations (Serbian Customs Administration).
Tourist Info: TOB.rs.

10. Suggested Itineraries & FAQ

Day Trip

Visit Veliki Crljeni, explore Lazarevac’s cultural sites, and enjoy local cuisine.

Extended Stay

Use Veliki Crljeni as a base to discover the Kolubara region’s industrial and rural heritage.

FAQ

Is the Kolubara A Power Plant open to the public?
No, except for occasional group tours by arrangement.
Are there entrance fees for main attractions?
Most sites are free; Modern Gallery charges a nominal fee.
How do I get to Veliki Crljeni by public transport?
Regular buses and trains from Belgrade to Lazarevac, then local connections.
Is the air quality safe?
Generally improving; check local reports if sensitive.
Can I take photographs?
Yes, in public areas; restrictions apply near the power plant.

11. Summary and Recommendations

Veliki Crljeni offers a compelling blend of industrial history, rural Serbian culture, and a vision for a sustainable future. Anchored by the Kolubara A power plant and enriched by Lazarevac’s heritage sites, the area provides unique opportunities for learning and exploration. Environmental improvements and infrastructure upgrades signal a new era for the region. Visitors are encouraged to engage with local traditions, support sustainable tourism, and make use of guided tours for a deeper experience.

For planning and the latest updates, rely on: