Elevate May 2018 | Air Serbia

PIJACE

BAJLONI Bajloni is perhaps the most magical market in the city, always ready for surprises. Its official name is Skadars- ka, but Belgraders prefer naming it after its founder, Ig- njat Bajloni, a Czech man who also built the nearby leg- endary brewery. There is certain symbology here, if we look at all those aged café-bars located in the vicini- ty, where you can still see locals returning home, arms laden with bags of groceries, stopping for a coffee and rakija brandy. And the bohemian spirit that reigns in this part of the city attracts artists and creative folk – occasionally you will come across a violinist whose ren- ditions of classical music brighten the day, or witness spontaneous performances of alternative artists oc- curs, and it is no coincidence that Bajloni gave birth to the new tradition of Belgrade’s night markets, which often transforms into a genuine festival.

Tekst / Words: Ana Kalaba Fotografije / Photography: Oliver Bunić

They say that the best way to get to know the spirit of a city is through its markets, where aromas, flavours and images combine colourfully with the style of life and tradition, the city and the village, the present and the past. Belgrade’s markets were never just places where fresh fruit and vegetables are bought – you also go to the market when you want to enjoy the scents of strawberries and meadow flowers, to chat with old ladies who call you “son” despite seeing you for the first time, to taste something new or something you only tried a long time ago... And sometimes also to hear a good story.

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