Numerous archeological sites from prehistoric, antic and medieval period are testimonies of settlement's long history. The first written records of medieval square Kragujofca are found in Turkish document, Tapu-Defter, dated in 1476. The city is most probably named after Kraguj, the believed owner of the estate on which the settlement was built. But according to another myth the name came from a bird of prey called kraguj.
After the final fall of the Serbian Medieval State (1389) the region shared the fate of the whole nation under the Turkish, and in the short period of time under the Austrian rule. Kragujevac was the capital of the modern Serbian State from 1818 until 1841, the time is considered to be the golden age of the city. During the 19th century many first state institutions, judicial, educational, cultural, industrial and apothecary, were established here (Court, National Office, Grammar and High School Lycee, Serbian Majestic Orchestra, Court Theatre, Cannon Foundry, Electrical Power Plant, Pharmacy).
At that time the foundations of the modern city life were laid. In the 20th century the city experienced fierce devastation and casualties during the I and II World War, but demographical and industrial boost followed.
Today Kragujevac is best known for its car and army industry.
