Belgrade, Serbia

Welcome to Belgrade, the capital and largest city of Serbia! Located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Belgrade is a city with a rich history and a vibrant present. With a population of 1,685,563, according to the 2022 census, Belgrade is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe and the world. The Vinča culture, one of the most important prehistoric cultures of Europe, evolved within the Belgrade area in the 6th millennium BC. In antiquity, Thraco-Dacians inhabited the region and, after 279 BC, Celts settled the city, naming it Singidūn. It was conquered by the Romans under the reign of Augustus and awarded Roman city rights in the mid-2nd century. It was settled by the Slavs in the 520s, and changed hands several times between the Byzantine Empire, the Frankish Empire, the Bulgarian Empire, and the Kingdom of Hungary before it became the seat of the Serbian king Stefan Dragutin in 1284. Belgrade served as capital of the Serbian Despotate during the reign of Stefan Lazarević, and then his successor Đurađ Branković returned it to the Hungarian king in 1427. Noon bells in support of the Hungarian army against the Ottoman Empire during the siege in 1456 have remained a widespread church tradition to this day. In 1521, Belgrade was conquered by the Ottomans and became the seat of the Sanjak of Smederevo. It frequently passed from Ottoman to Habsburg rule, which saw the destruction of most of the city during the Ottoman–Habsburg wars. Following the Serbian Revolution, Belgrade was once again named the capital of Serbia in 1841. Northern Belgrade remained the southernmost Habsburg post until 1918, when it was attached to the city, due to former Austro-Hungarian territories becoming part of the new Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes after World War I. Belgrade was the capital of Yugoslavia from its creation in 1918 to its dissolution in 2006. In a fatally strategic position, the city has been battled over in 115 wars and razed 44 times, being bombed five times and besieged many times. Today, Belgrade is a city with a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history by visiting its many museums, galleries, and historic landmarks. The Belgrade Fortress, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offers stunning views of the city and the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. The Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox church buildings, is a must-visit for anyone interested in religious architecture. The Skadarlija district, with its cobbled streets and traditional restaurants, offers a glimpse into the city’s bohemian past. For those interested in modern culture, Belgrade has a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Štark Arena, one of the largest capacity indoor arenas in Europe, hosts major concerts and sporting events. Belgrade is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to all tastes. And of course, no visit to Belgrade would be complete without trying some of the city’s delicious local cuisine, which includes specialties such as cevapi, pljeskavica, and kajmak. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern amenities, Belgrade is a city that has something to offer everyone. Come and discover this hidden gem for yourself!