25. 05. 2025 – Local initiative: Experience Savićevac, in Prokuplje, Savicevac
Young people from Serbia will carry out an initiative in Prokuplje, at Savićevac, to raise awareness about the protection of the cultural and historical monument Savićevac, as well as environmental preservation and ecology, considering that Savićevac is located on Hisar Hill, an area rich in plant life.
What is Savićevac?
Savićevac is a historical and cultural monument located on Hisar Hill in Prokuplje, built in 1931 as an endowment by Dr. Aleksa Savić, a former Minister of Health of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes.
In his will, Dr. Aleksa Savić dedicated Savićevac to the people of Prokuplje, especially to children and youth. His wish was for the building to be public property – a space for gathering, rest, and cultural activities.
Why is Savićevac important to young people?
1. A space for community life and gathering
In a town lacking quality public spaces for young people, Savićevac has the potential to become a center for socializing, creative workshops, cultural events, and informal education. The initiative stems from the need to create a safe, accessible, and inspiring place that is not commercialized.
2. Resistance to neglect and institutional apathy
The building has decayed for years due to institutional neglect and unresolved ownership issues. Young people see this initiative as resistance to systemic disregard, and a symbol of the fight against forgetfulness, corruption, and the privatization of public goods.
3. Engagement in the local community
Through actions like “D(o)živi Savićevac” (“Experience Savićevac”), young people show they want an active role in shaping their surroundings. This initiative is an example of civic activism and self-organization, where instead of waiting for institutions, the community takes matters into its own hands.
4. Inspiration for the future
By revitalizing Savićevac, young people want to send a message that it is possible to build a different, better reality – one that values public good, solidarity, and the past as a foundation for the future.
What kind of initiative do young people want to implement at Savićevac?
Young people aim to organize a community gathering where citizens of Prokuplje will be reminded of the cultural and historical importance of Savićevac for their town and community. The initiative will include several activities:
1. Environmental action – cleaning and organizing the area around the Savićevac endowment
2. Photo exhibition – showing how Savićevac looked in the past, what it was used for, how it could look in the future, and how it can serve the entire community
3. Promotion of 19th and 20th-century motifs – showcasing clothing and items from those eras
4. Treasure hunt for children – based on a local legend that a dragon guards treasure on the hill, a “treasure hunt” will be organized for kids
5. Community gathering with music – socializing for all citizens with appropriate music
6. Petition signing – gathering signatures to bring the issue of preserving and protecting the cultural-historical monument Savićevac before the city assembly
