Novi Sad

Casque orné 4ème siècle Musée Novi Sad Colisée Rome Italie

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Kaiserin Maria Theresia (HRR)

Patrijarh Rajacic blagosilja vojsku

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Razglednica Novog Sada 2

Velika-narodna-skupstina-1918

Novi Sad is the second largest city in Serbia, following the capital, Belgrade. Situated on the banks of the Danube River, it is the capital of the autonomous province of Vojvodina. Known for its vibrant cultural life, historical architecture, and multicultural community, Novi Sad has played a significant role in Serbian history and continues to be a central hub for cultural, economic, and educational activities.

History

The area around Novi Sad has been inhabited since the Stone Age, with various tribes and peoples settling in the region throughout history. The city itself was founded in 1694, when Serbian merchants formed a colony across the Danube from the Petrovaradin Fortress, a significant military fort of the Habsburg Monarchy. Novi Sad gained city rights in 1748 and rapidly developed into a cultural and political center of the Serbian people in the Habsburg Empire, earning it the nickname "Serbian Athens."

During the 19th century, Novi Sad became an important advocate for Serbian national identity and cultural revival, with many Serbian writers, poets, and intellectuals calling the city home. The city was heavily damaged during the World War II, but it was rebuilt and continued to grow, both in size and importance, in the post-war period.

Geography

Novi Sad is located in the northern part of Serbia, on the edge of the Pannonian Basin and along the Danube River. The city is directly opposite the southern slopes of the Fruška Gora mountain range, which is a national park known for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as numerous Orthodox monasteries. The river island of Štrand is one of Novi Sad's most popular recreational areas, especially during the summer months.

Economy

The economy of Novi Sad is diverse, with strong sectors in agriculture, manufacturing, information technology, and services. The city is home to the Novi Sad Fair, one of the largest agricultural fairs in the region, attracting visitors and exhibitors from all over Europe. In recent years, Novi Sad has also seen significant growth in the IT sector, with many startups and international companies establishing offices in the city.

Culture

Novi Sad is renowned for its cultural events, most notably the EXIT Festival, which is held annually at the Petrovaradin Fortress and has won several international awards for its quality and innovation. The city also hosts numerous other festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year, catering to a wide range of interests and audiences.

The Matica srpska library, the oldest Serbian literary and cultural society, and the Serbian National Theatre are both located in Novi Sad, further cementing the city's role as a cultural hub. The city's architecture, with its mix of Hungarian Secessionist, Neo-Renaissance, and classical styles, reflects its diverse history and cultural influences.

Education

Novi Sad is an important educational center, home to the University of Novi Sad, which has more than 50,000 students and faculties in sciences, technology, humanities, and medical sciences. The university is a key research institution in Serbia and has numerous partnerships with universities and research institutions around the world.

Demographics

The population of Novi Sad is ethnically diverse, with a majority of Serbs, but also significant communities of Hungarians, Slovaks, Croats, and other ethnic groups. This multiculturalism is a hallmark of the city, contributing to its vibrant cultural life and community.

Transport

Novi Sad is well-connected by road and rail to other major cities in Serbia and the surrounding region. The city is also a significant port on the Danube River, with cargo and passenger services linking it to other parts of Europe. The construction of a new bridge over the Danube, as part of a major highway project, is expected to further improve the city's connectivity and economic prospects.

Conclusion

As a city that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern development and cultural diversity, Novi Sad stands as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of the Serbian spirit. Its role as a center for education, culture, and economic development makes it an essential part of Serbia's present and future.