A crumbling 19th-century house on one of Belgrade’s busiest streets is defying time and urban development by thriving as a small, intimate theatre.
Built in 1894 by a prominent family, the mansion at 17 Takovska Street is a protected heritage site that now hosts Takovska17, a theatre staging early 20th-century plays for audiences of just a few dozen people. Though traffic roars past outside, stepping inside feels like entering another era, with period furniture, faded walls and wooden floors worn by more than a century of use.
Several local theatre troupes perform in the space, embracing its historic atmosphere. Actress Isidora Ristic said the house itself has become part of the performances, calling it “a character in our plays.”
Architect and performer Tamara Masic said the artists feel honored to breathe new life into the old building, describing it as “like a museum.”
The unique setting has drawn strong interest, with frequent waiting lists for tickets.
As many similar houses in Belgrade have been demolished to make way for modern buildings, Takovska17 stands out as a rare survivor, preserving the city’s past while creating new stories on stage.