Belgrade

Vinca clay figure 02

Guardian of the city

Belgrade 1684

Belgrade Cathedral & Landing Place 1

Majski prevrat 1903

Belgrade (Serbian: Београд, Beograd) is the capital city and largest city of Serbia. It is located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, where the Pannonian Plain meets the Balkans. The city has a population of around 1.7 million people, making it one of the largest cities in Southeast Europe.

History

Belgrade's history dates back to at least 7000 BC, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. The area was settled by various tribes before being conquered by the Roman Empire, where it was named Singidunum. Over the centuries, Belgrade has been fought over in 115 wars and destroyed 44 times. It has been the battleground of the Ottoman Empire and the Kingdom of Hungary, the site of major battles during World War I, and was bombed during World War II and again in 1999 during the NATO intervention in Yugoslavia.

Geography

Belgrade is located in southeastern Europe, at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Its strategic location has made it an important focal point for military and trade routes. The city's landscape is characterized by its hilly terrain on one side and the flat plains of the Pannonian Basin on the other.

Economy

The economy of Belgrade is the most developed in Serbia, contributing to around 40% of the country's GDP. The city is a financial center, with numerous banks and financial institutions headquartered there. It also has a growing IT sector, with many tech companies and startups establishing their presence in the city. Tourism is another significant aspect of Belgrade's economy, with the city's rich history, architecture, and vibrant nightlife attracting visitors from around the world.

Culture

Belgrade is known for its historical architecture, which includes a mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Socialist-era buildings. The city's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural institutions. The Belgrade Fortress, located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, is one of the city's most significant landmarks and a testament to its long and tumultuous history.

Education

The city is a major educational center in Serbia, home to several universities and higher education institutions, including the University of Belgrade, one of the oldest and largest universities in Southeast Europe.

Transportation

Belgrade's location at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe makes it a key transport hub. The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trolleybuses. The Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport serves as a major gateway for international travelers.

Demographics

Belgrade has a diverse population, with the majority being ethnic Serbs. There are also significant communities of other ethnicities, including Hungarians, Roma, and others. The official language is Serbian, and the predominant religion is Eastern Orthodox Christianity.

Governance

Belgrade is the political and administrative center of Serbia, housing the President's office, the National Assembly, and numerous government ministries and agencies.

See Also

• History of Belgrade
• Geography of Serbia
• Economy of Serbia
• Culture of Serbia
• Demographics of Serbia