Subotica

For anyone even vaguely interested in Art Nouveau, Subotica in Serbia is a must-visit destination. It is a well-known station on the Art Nouveau European Road but is still somewhat off the main path for many tourists. This tiny city is home to some of the finest specimens of Hungarian Secession architecture found anywhere in Europe, including the famous Ferenc Raichle's Palace, a private residence constructed in 1904 by a local movement leader.

Subotica is situated in Serbia's northern Vojvodina province, not far from the Hungarian border. It was a component of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Vienna Secession and the Hungarian Szecesszio movement both had a significant impact on the downtown area. Several of the city's most iconic structures are characterized by floral themes, natural lines, and timeless color schemes, and they frequently feature Zsolnay ceramic tiles. The City Hall and the primary bank are two of the more than a dozen structures that fall under the Art Nouveau category.

The Subotica Synagogue, which was constructed in 1902 and recently renovated, is arguably the most exquisite example. The first Secessionist structure in the city, it is said to be the only synagogue in Europe to feature Hungarian Art Nouveau characteristics. The interior is a work of art with stained glass, floral decorations, and vivid, fantasy-inspired colors.

The easiest approach to learn about Subotica's architecture is to take one of the app-based, free audio tours produced by Visit Subotica. While you're there, make a quick detour to Palic Lake nearby, where you'll find a number of additional notable Art Nouveau structures, including the 1912 Women's Lido.

Location: Serbia