Gatori are traditional wine cellars characteristic of the Danube region, especially the area around Zmajevac and Suza. These unique buildings have been used for centuries to store and mature wine, and their creation is associated with the Ottoman period and the later development of viticulture under the influence of Hungarian and German culture.

The oldest gatori in Baranja date back to the 17^th and 18^th centuries, when winegrowers looked for ways to ensure ideal conditions in which to store their wine. They were dug by hand in the loess soil, on the slopes of hills, the most famous of which is Bansko hill. Precisely because of such design, their temperature is stable - from 12 to 15 °C all year round. Thanks to the structure provided by their loess environment, gatori naturally regulate humidity and temperature, without the need for additional cooling or heating, and are now recognized as self-sustaining and environmentally friendly facilities.

Their construction is simple but functional. They consist of two main parts, a brick building and a part buried in the loess, the entrance of which is often decorated with bricks or stone. The interior consists of a long corridor that branches in some places into side rooms where wine is stored in wooden barrels. The walls naturally absorb moisture, preventing the barrels from drying out and ensuring optimal conditions for wine maturation.

In addition to their primary function as wine cellars, gatori have always been social places. Locals gathered there to celebrate the harvest, taste new wine or simply enjoy the company of their friends. Today, some still serve the same purpose - renovated and adapted for wine tourism, they offer visitors an authentic experience of the Baranja vineyards.

Among the most famous are the gators in Zmajevac, located in the so-called surduci - alleys cut into the hill, where there are a series of wine cellars. At events such as Wine Marathon and Vinatlon, visitors have the opportunity to explore these unique cellars and enjoy wine tasting.

One of the oldest and most famous gator is that of the Belje winery in Kneževi Vinogradi. It dates back to 1526, was first mentioned in descriptions of the Battle of Mohacs, and is still open to visitors today. For those who want to experience their authentic atmosphere, allow us to recommend a visit to the Kolar family wine cellar in Suza or the Josić winery in neighboring Zmajevac. There are also Gerštmajer and the Zlatno Brdo winery in Kneževi Vinogradi, as well as many others in the area.

Zmajevac, as the wine capital of Baranja, can boast the fact that in addition to having lunch at the Gator (Josić restaurant), you can also spend the night there! And in several places: in the Kusić, Zajec and Martinov, as well as in Ondinu, Oaza mira, Vinum 200, PodRoom Irena and other places that await you with open doors.

Apparently, there are 400 or more of these in Zmajevac alone!

Written by: Maja Celing Celić