Koznik

Koznik Fortress is a medieval castle in central Serbia, located 10 km northwest from the present day town of Brus, on a hillside of mountain Kopaonik, on the right bank in the upper flow of river Rasina. The castle was built on the top of a steep hill dominating the surrounding terrain on 920 m altitude.

History
The castle was mentioned for the first time in a Prince Lazar’s decree. In the early 15th century, Koznik belonged to Radič Postupović, one of the most important knights at that time. Duchess Milica spent time in Koznik in 1402, according to historical records. It is known that despot Stefan made two decrees in Koznik in 1405, granting Radič Postupović all surrounding villages and the church on the river Grabovničica.

After brief Ottoman conquest of Koznik, the castle returned to despot Đurađ Branković in 1444. The Ottomans again seized the castle at same time when they conquered Kruševac in 1454-1455. During 16th and 17th century, Ottoman squad was located there until 1689 when Koznik was taken hold of by Serbian rebels, which indicates that at the time Koznik was still active fortification.

Koznik is an example of a small highland fortified castle. It has an irregular polygonal base that follows the configuration of the terrain. South from the fort were other constructions, with some remnants still recognizable today.

Koznik Fortress was declared Monument of Culture of Great Importance in 1979, and it is protected by Republic of Serbia.