House with the Sundial, Belgrade

The House with the Sundial is a distinctive landmark in central Zemun. This 19th-century corner mansion, located at the intersection of Glavna and Dubrovačka streets, is best known for the functioning sundial on its façade facing Dubrovačka Street. Constructed in 1823, with the sundial added in 1828, the building is an elegant example of the Classical style with modest Biedermeier elements. Built of brick, the mansion features a high mansard roof and decorative plasterwork framing the windows of its main façade. To appreciate the contrast between the building’s two façades, stand on the opposite sidewalk and face its rounded corner. Notice how the main façade, facing Glavna Street, features considerably more elaborate ornamentation.

However, both sides of the building are worth admiring in their own way. Look closely at the sundial, which displays the daytime hours from 8 AM to 3 PM according to solar time. Its unusual arrangement of numerals makes it a particularly interesting feature. At the top of the mansion’s main façade, look for a crest depicting an anchor, symbolizing its founder’s involvement in maritime trade.

Originally designed as a combined residential and commercial property, the house consists of a basement, ground floor and upper floor. The ground floor likely accommodated taverns and shops, while the upper level was used as living quarters. Despite later extensions and damage sustained during World War II, the historic sundial survived.

The house also has important literary connections. Prominent Serbian writer Jovan Subotić spent his final years here and died in the house on January 28, 1886. Known for his poetry, plays and novels, Subotić was an important figure in 19th-century Serbian literature. Another notable resident was acclaimed Serbian writer David Albahari, further strengthening the building’s connection to the country’s literary heritage.