Historic Cenetery

Austro-Hungarian Cemetery

A serene, manicured memorial honoring WWI soldiers that offers a rare glimpse into the Great War's footprint in Kosovo.

Getting There

📍 Getting There: Located near Karagaq Park in Peja.

🕒 Open Hours: Daylight hours.

♿ Accessibility: Flat grass/paved paths. Wheelchair accessible.

Loacally Know as

Varrezat Austro-Hungareze

Museum Historian & Memorial Guide

Valdrin Gashi

Insider tips

Key Detail: Central obelisk for K.u.K. Army.
Combo: Next to Karagaq Park.
Atmosphere: Quiet, green.

The Story

The Austro-Hungarian Cemetery in Peja dates back to World War I, when the region - then part of the Kingdom of Serbia - became a battleground between Austro-Hungarian and Serbian forces. The cemetery was established to bury soldiers who died in combat or from war-related causes in the Peja area.

Over time, the site fell into disrepair. By the early 2000s, many graves were unmarked, and the grounds were overgrown. In 2014, marking the centennial of World War I, Austria, Hungary, and Kosovo collaborated to restore the cemetery. The project involved fencing the area, restoring headstones, and installing a multilingual memorial plaque.

The cemetery contains the remains of 208 soldiers from ten different nations, reflecting the multinational composition of the Austro-Hungarian army and the complex alliances of the war. It is one of the few WWI cemeteries in Kosovo and serves as a symbol of shared history and post-conflict cooperation.

Today, the site is maintained by Peja Municipality and occasionally hosts commemorative events attended by diplomats, historians, and local residents. Its location near Rugova Gorge makes it a meaningful stop for visitors exploring the region’s natural and historical landmarks.