THE HISTORY
The project for this block was designed by architect Vera Paunović, who also designed Blocks 3 and 4. Construction began in 1968 and was completed in the early 1970s. The appearance of this block is in the style of industrial modernism.
The layout of the block influenced a different arrangement of buildings, so only three residential buildings were constructed, one of which is a 13-story high-rise. In this block, facilities that were lacking in New Belgrade at the time were built, including schools, commercial buildings, and sports centers.
Grafičko medijska škola, 1962.
The Ninth Gymnasium "Mihailo Petrović Alas" building was originally constructed in 1956 to house the primary school "Žikica Jovanović Španac," serving students from the "Paviljoni" area. Established in 1961 as the "New Belgrade Gymnasium," the school relocated to its current building in 1965. Following years of wear, the building was fully reconstructed in 2023.
Zgrada Devete gimnazije Mihailo Petrović Alas
arh. Olga Ostojić i Velimir Ostojić, Hala sportova,1968.
As part of the urban development plan for Block 5, a site was designated for the construction of a sports hall to serve the Physical Education Association "Partizan." Opened in 1968, the Sports Hall, also known as the "Palace of Sports," is the oldest sports facility in New Belgrade. From the late 1970s to the early 1990s, it hosted games for KK Partizan, along with occasional matches for KK Radnički Beograd, KK Crvena Zvezda, and OKK Beograd.
The hall underwent a major renovation in 2011, during which its interior was modernized, and the façade restored. With a capacity of 5,000 spectators, it was renamed the "Ranko Žeravica Sports Hall" in 2016, in honor of the legendary basketball coach.
THE DESIGN
The layout of the block influenced a different arrangement of buildings, so only three residential buildings were constructed, one of which is a 13-story high-rise. In this block, facilities that were lacking in New Belgrade at the time were built, including schools, commercial buildings, and sports centers.
A particular highlight of the block is the sports hall, designed by architects Olga Ostojić and Velimir Ostojić, along with architect Đorđe Zloković, who constructed an interesting roof structure in the shape of an inverted dome.
Behind the high-rise, in 2010, the “Water Bearer” fountain, a work by sculptor Velimir Karavelić, was installed. It is unknown what happened to the sculpture that previously stood in that place and was replaced by the current one.
Fontana „Vodonoša“, delo vajar Velimira Karavelića 2010.
Graffiti are a distinctive feature of this block. A striking mural of Dragan Mance, the legendary Partizan footballer who tragically passed away, graces the building facing Oton Župančič Street. Within the block’s interior, a wall showcases a diverse collection of captivating graffiti.
