The building of the Rectorate of the University of Belgrade (Kapetan-Mišino zdanje ‒ zdanje means important building) was built from 1858 to 1863. The famous Belgrade merchant Captain Miša Anastasijević donated this building to his homeland for educational purposes.

The original plans of architect Czech Jan Nevola was creation of a palace for Atanasijević’s family, but when the construction was completed, after some political turmoil and changes of ruling dynasties, Captain Miša donated the building to Serbia for development of education. The early form of university ( established in still occupied Serbia in 1808. by famous writer and first minister of education Dositej Obradović), moved to this building in 1863. providing the basis for further development of University of Belgrade.

In the post WW1 years, the Student square received further great development:  Kolarčev narodni univerzitet - University and Concert Hall donated by philanthrope Ilija Milosavljević Kolarac, also merchant.