Zebrnjak

Zebrnjak is a memorial building on a hill near Mlado Nagoričane featuring a fortification-inspired base structure and an ossuary holding the remains of 687 Serbian soldiers. The interior is organized through nine exhibition chambers connected by spiral pathways that lead to different sections of the complex.

The memorial was built in 1937 to mark the 25th anniversary of the Battle of Kumanovo, a decisive Serbian victory against the Ottomans in 1912. The structure later suffered partial destruction yet has continued to serve as a remembrance of that moment in regional history.

The interior displays frescoes by artist Zhivorad Nastasievich showing everyday life scenes of people in Serbian traditional clothing. These images give the place a personal dimension that goes beyond its role as a memorial site.

The site sits on a hill at around 510 meters elevation, which requires a climb to reach it. Access is via defined pathways leading to the main building, and comfortable shoes are recommended for the ascent.

Before its partial destruction in 1942, the memorial originally stood at about 48 meters tall and was illuminated at night by petromax lamps. These lights made it a visible landmark across the landscape and emphasized its role as a place of remembrance.