Zemun Gymnasium, Belgrade

Zemun Gymnasium, located in the Zemun municipality of Belgrade, stands as one of the country's most significant educational institutions. Founded on September 23, 1858, it is the second oldest gymnasium in Belgrade, following the First Belgrade Gymnasium, and the sixth oldest in Serbia. Today, it is also the largest gymnasium in Serbia by student population.

Originally established as a two-year lower gymnasium by the Austrian military, the school started with 21 students and taught exclusively in German. By 1872, it had expanded to four grades. In 1883, Serbian became the language of instruction. Initially co-ed, it became all-boys by 1887, but returned to co-education in 1925, the same year German was phased out. The modern gymnasium structure dates to 1958, after merging with two smaller schools formed in 1946. It also served as a Commerce school and educational center in the 1970s.

The gymnasium building, designed in the Neo-Renaissance style by Nikola Kolar, was constructed in 1879. Due to space constraints, it was expanded in 1916, incorporating elements of post-secessionist architecture. The facility now comprises two connected structures surrounding an enclosed courtyard, covering a total floor area of 10,000 square meters, with 5,500 square meters dedicated to educational activities. The building, under state protection as a cultural monument, underwent interior renovations in 2009.

Throughout its history, Zemun Gymnasium has not only adapted to changing educational and political landscapes but also contributed significantly to the cultural and educational fabric of Zemun and Serbia. It celebrated its 160th anniversary in 2018, marking it as a cornerstone of Serbian education.