Drvengrad (Wooden City/Küstendorf) Guide
Drvengrad: A Cinematic Village Escape Guide
Welcome to Drvengrad, also known as Küstendorf or Wooden City, a unique ethno-village conceived and built by the renowned Serbian filmmaker Emir Kusturica. Nestled in the heart of Mokra Gora, this charming village offers a whimsical escape from the ordinary, blending traditional architecture with artistic flair. It's a place where film, art, and Serbian culture converge to create an unforgettable experience. Drvengrad was born out of Kusturica's vision while filming "Life is a Miracle" in 2004. Frustrated with the lack of authentic and inspiring locations, he decided to build his own. The village is constructed entirely of natural materials, primarily wood, and features traditional Serbian houses relocated from the surrounding region. Each street and building is named after individuals Kusturica admires, including filmmakers, actors, and historical figures. Visitors to Drvengrad can explore the charming streets, admire the traditional architecture, and soak in the artistic atmosphere. The village boasts a church dedicated to St. Sava, a library, a cinema named after Stanley Kubrick, a pastry shop, a restaurant serving traditional Serbian cuisine, and various shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. During the annual Küstendorf Film and Music Festival, the village comes alive with screenings, concerts, and workshops, attracting artists and film enthusiasts from around the world. The restaurant offers traditional Serbian dishes like *ćevapi*, *pljeskavica*, and *kajmak*, providing a taste of the local culinary heritage.
Transportation
The most convenient way to reach Drvengrad is by car. From Belgrade, take the E763 highway towards Požega, then follow signs to Užice and Mokra Gora. Public transportation options are limited. You can take a bus from Užice to Mokra Gora, but you'll need to arrange transportation from Mokra Gora to Drvengrad, which is a few kilometers away. Taxis are available in Užice.