Established as a Roman military outpost in the 3rd century AD, Kuršumlija is an important spa destination in southern Serbia. Remains of Byzantine churches and monasteries dot its surroundings while the highly photogenic hoodoos of “Devil’s Town” are steeped in local legend.
Things to do in Kursumlija
On the eastern edge of Kuršumlija are the remains of the Manastir Presvete Bogorodice, a 12th-century monastery constructed on the site of a 5th-century Byzantine temple. While it was largely destroyed by the Ottoman Empire, the monastery remains a sanctuary and cultural monument to this day, with Christians gathering here on Good Friday.
Don’t miss a visit to Devil’s Town, a striking rock formation that consists of around 200 tapered earth pyramids that rise to 15 metres in height. Follow the walking trail that leads to an observation platform overlooking the site and learn about the legend associating the pyramids with petrified wedding guests. Nearby are the natural springs of Žito Vrele and Djavolja Voda, which are renowned for their healing waters.
A short drive south from Kuršumlija is Kuršumlijska Banja, a popular spa town that has been attracting bathers since the Roman period. Its mineral waters are rich in sulphur and range in temperature between 14 and 64 °Celcius, with several swimming pools and hydrotherapy baths harnessing their potential. Kuršumlijska Banja is also known for its healing mud, which is used in a range of therapeutic and cosmetic treatments.
Getting around Kursumlija
Kuršumlija is just over an hour’s drive from Niš and Niš Constantine the Great Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Buses travel to Kuršumlija from Niš and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.