Reconstruction, restoration and presentation of the XVI century fountain at the Belgrade fortress

The reconstruction, restoration, and presentation of the Mehmed Pasha Sokolovic Fountain primarily focused on treating and presenting the fountain in an appropriate restoration manner, as it is one of the few preserved structures from the Ottoman period that has retained its primary function. Extensive research work preceded the preparation of the project, including the study of previous works on the fountain, literature, photo documentation, historical plans, site probes, and the analysis of fountains from the same period in Istanbul. Following the successful research, which fundamentally influenced the choice of conservation methods, a project was developed by an interdisciplinary team. Strict conservation principles were adhered to, utilizing old construction techniques and appropriate materials for the restoration works, with modern materials applied solely for new interventions aimed at presentation. Several archaeological cultural layers were discovered during the works, the most significant being the remains of a Roman military camp rampart dating from the 2nd to 3rd century AD and a Neolithic house. The project's success is also evident in the presentation of the fountain within the context of the fortification and its surroundings, allowing the perception of all cultural layers through a circular communication flow that reveals the fortress's immeasurable wealth at this microlocation.