Basic moments
The kindness and hospitality of the Serbs is one of the main features of the country. The protracted military conflict at the end of the 20th century taught the Serbian people to love and respect all living things, to look to the future with optimism. European tourists are attracted to this amazing country not by the chic and luxury of tourist services, but by the cleanest air, virgin nature and human, not commercial, relationships between people. Serbia has a unique culture dating back to the times of the Byzantine Empire. This is the birthplace of world-famous scientists: the inventor Nikola Tesla, the naturalist Josif Pancic, the geographer Jovan Tsviich, the mathematician Mikhailo Petrovich, the astronomer Milyutin Milankovich, the chemist Pavle Savich. In the last century alone, the country has given the world the beloved film director Emir Kusturica, poet Milorad Pavic, singer and composer Djorzhde Maryanovich and many other outstanding personalities. It was Serbia that had a strong influence on the development of modern painting and sculpture, and was nominated for the title Cultural capital Europe 2020.
V last years tourism is actively developing in Serbia, and there are many reasons for this: vivid national traditions, a large number of most interesting places, wonderful health resorts, friendly people. And, importantly, all this at very loyal prices: not too inferior in level to other European states, Serbia will delight guests with a low cost of accommodation, food and shopping.
Serbia cities
All cities in Serbia
Climate
Serbia has an area of 88,407 km², and for a small country that ranks 111th in the world in terms of size, its climate is extremely diverse. It is determined by the relief: in the north of the country lies the Middle Danube lowland with huge fertile plains, central part characterized by hilly terrain, and the East Serbian mountains rise to the southeast. The warm seas - Black, Aegean and Adriatic, washing the shores of the Balkan Peninsula have a huge impact on the weather in Serbia. As a result, a continental climate prevails in the north of the country, a temperate continental climate in the center and south, and a mountainous climate in the mountains.
Life is strictly according to the calendar - distinctive feature climate in Serbia. Every three months corresponds to a different season. But, unlike in Russia, there are no strong snowstorms in winter, frosts are moderate, easily tolerated without wind. There is a lot of snow here, so ski resorts able to offer excellent tracks in season.
In spring, the weather in Serbia is changeable: from +15 degrees in the sun to -5 in frost. The real warmth returns at the beginning of April. Fields, gardens and forests are blooming all over the country at this time, so it makes sense for lovers of natural beauty to come to Serbia in mid-late spring.
Summer heat comes in August. Abundant rains at this time of the year are short-lived, and gloomy cloudy weather never lasts all day.
Winters in Serbia are usually short (no more than 2 months) and mild, but quite snowy. average temperature air during this period is approximately 0 ... + 5 ° C. Summer is long and hot (+ 28… + 30 ° C). Most rainfall occurs in May and June.
The mild Serbian winters are often overshadowed by piercing cold winds, which even have their own names:
- Koshava - cold wind blowing from October to April in the north of the country and bringing with it freezing rains and snowstorms;
- Severac - north wind from Hungary;
- Moravac is a cold north wind in the Morava river valley.
Nature
In the north of the country, on the territory of the Middle Danube Lowland (or the Pannonian Plain, as it is called in Hungary), there is the Vojvodina Autonomous Region. Today there are almost no forests here. The land of Vojvodina is very fertile and is actively used for agricultural crops of corn, wheat, vegetables and, of course, sunflowers. A blooming field of sunflowers in beauty can compete with the most spectacular landscapes that only exist on the planet Earth!
Serbia ranks second in Europe after Hungary in terms of the number of rivers and lakes. The largest and most majestic among the Serbian rivers, of course, is the Danube, which forms many bays, oxbows, swamps and a magnificent, the narrowest part of which is often called the "iron gate". consists of four gorges and three basins. In some places, sheer cliffs rise 300 meters above the Danube waters. Here the river abounds in numerous pools up to 90 meters deep. On the territory of the Djerdap Gorge is the eponymous national park, the pride of which are numerous relict plants that have long disappeared in most of Europe.
The southern part of western and eastern Serbia is mountainous. There are 4 mountain systems on the territory of the country: the Dinaric Highlands, the Balkan Mountains, the East Serbian Mountains and part of the Rila-Rhodope system. The height of 15 mountains in Serbia exceeds 2000 meters. The highest point is considered to be Dzheravitsa with a height of 2656 meters. In the mountains of Serbia, endless oak forests, beech and linden forests have found refuge.
Population and language
Serbia is home to about 7 million people. The majority of the population are Serbs, the second largest are Hungarians. The bright national mosaic is complemented by Bulgarians, Albanians, Bosnians, Slovaks, Gypsies, Macedonians, Romanians.
The official language is Serbian, but twelve regional languages are actively used along with it. Most of the inhabitants of Serbia profess Christianity of various confessions, most of all here are Orthodox, which somewhat makes local traditions and culture similar to Russia.
History
The historical roots of Serbia date back to the 6th century. The settlement of the ancient Slavs in the Balkan Peninsula marked the emergence of the first proto-state formations. By the end of the 9th century, the main principalities were formed here: Duklia, Travunia, Pagania, Zahumye, Serbia.
The first known ruler of these lands is considered to be Prince Vysheslav, who lived in the 8th century. His descendant Vlastimir freed the Balkan Slavs from the rule of the Byzantine Empire, after which the Serbian state expanded to almost the entire peninsula. The power gaining power entered into confrontation with its largest neighbor - the Bulgarian kingdom - alternately losing and then recapturing lands. After the conclusion of peace with Bulgaria, princely wars for the primacy of power began in Serbia.
The era of the Middle Ages is considered the heyday of the Serbian state, which became possible thanks to the wise rule of Stefan Dusan, who lived in the middle of the 14th century.
The battle on the Kosovo field is considered a tragic turn in the history of the country. After an unsuccessful battle in 1389, Serbia was forced to recognize the suzerainty of the Ottoman Empire, becoming its vassal, and from 1459 it was ruled by the Turks for 350 years.
The wave of national uprisings that swept in 1804-1813 made it possible to make a breakthrough towards liberation. On July 13, 1878, Serbia gained independence under the terms of the Berlin Peace. After 4 years, the state proclaimed itself a kingdom and existed in this format until the occupation by German troops in 1941. In 1945, a new entity appeared on the political map of Europe - the Federal People's Republic of Yugoslavia. It included People's republic Serbia, renamed the Socialist Republic of Serbia in 1963.
The decline of socialism here was accompanied by interethnic confrontations, which led to a large-scale bloody war. In 2000, NATO was forced to use aerial bombardment, and the UN Security Council decided to send peacekeeping troops to Kosovo. Massive destruction of houses, the flow of refugees, the loss of unique monuments of church architecture - this is not a complete list of what modern Serbs have faced.
After the collapse of Yugoslavia in 2003, a union of two states - Serbia and Montenegro was formed, which existed for only 3 years. Serbian people launched a transformation initiative state system, as a result of which, on June 5, 2006, Serbia became a separate full-fledged state, and a new Constitution was adopted. Pro-European democratic forces came to power, leading the process of rebuilding Serbia. This made it possible to bring the country out of international isolation in order to establish good-neighborly relations, including with Kosovo.
Attractions and tourism in Serbia
Tourism in Serbia is at the stage of development, however, this country can already pleasantly surprise and delight guests. Unique monastery buildings, fortresses, mansions, ski and balneological resorts, national parks and unique nature reserves await vacationers all year round.
The Serbian capital has absorbed the historical spirit of different eras, combining Western and Eastern culture. The city was destroyed almost forty times, but it was successfully rebuilt again and again, which affected the appearance of modern buildings.
The old part is located next to the fortress. It's called Stari-Grad. On the local streets you can see many sights and places for recreation - cozy restaurants, coffee shops, pastry shops. The guests are especially interested in the rich expositions of the National Museum, located on Republic Square. If you are looking for shops selling souvenirs, look for them in the Skadarlie quarter and near the Ada Siganlija park - these are great places to walk. There are also religious attractions in this part of the capital of Serbia - the majestic temple of St. Sava and the only surviving mosque, Bayrakly-Jami.
Modern buildings, wide boulevards, spacious streets, alleys and recreation parks - all this tourists will find in the new part of the city, located to the south of the fortress. Among the area's key attractions are the Museum of the Revolution, the Allied Executive Veche, the tomb and the former residence of Marshal Tito.
History buffs can be advised to go to the surroundings to see with their own eyes the largest flat outpost in Europe, the Brankovic Fortress.
- This is the financial and spiritual center of Serbia, not in vain called "Serbian Athens". The city became the nucleus of the formation of the national culture, since for several centuries it was here that the Metropolitanate of the Serbian Orthodox Church was located.
Tourists are attracted by walking tours around the local area. During the walk, with or without a guide, you can see the Petrovaradin Fortress, the Serbian National Theater, the Danube Park, Freedom Square, an Orthodox church and a church.
In the suburban area is the Fruska Gora National Park, one of the Seven Wonders of Serbia. This amazing reserve is home to over 1,500 protected plant species.
Another treasure of these places is hidden in dense deciduous forests. The complex of medieval monasteries "Holy Mountain", among which the most famous are Hopovo, Velika Remeta, Grgetek, annually receives a large number of pilgrims.
Souls are not the only cures in this paradise. Nearby is the Banja Vrdnik spa, which specializes in rheumatic diseases, soft tissue injuries, peripheral paralysis and common back pain. The team of specialists uses advanced technologies, including cryotherapy, magnetotherapy, kinesitherapy, acupuncture.
Subotica is the gastronomic capital of Serbia. The mixing of the national cuisines of Serbs, Hungarians and Croats has led to the emergence of incredibly tasty dishes. Paprikash is considered the visiting card of the city. Made from pork, chicken or fish, it contains an irreplaceable ingredient - paprika. Such a culinary masterpiece will be served to a guest in any restaurant and cafe.
In addition, Subotica is famous for its defensive fortress. Once the city was the outskirts of the Ottoman Empire, and later was part of the Austro-Hungarian lands, so the fortified border outposts here are really impressive.
The urban landscape is varied and colorful: buildings with undulating patterns, wide facades and rounded lines are ubiquitous in Subotica.
The Town Hall is an exemplary example of the local architectural style. Today, there is an extensive exposition of the Historical Museum, and upstairs tourists will find an excellent observation deck where you can see a vivid panorama of Subotica and its surroundings.
The oldest architectural monument of the city is the Franciscan Monastery, which survived two world wars and the NATO bombing. This Catholic shrine was erected on the site of an old fortress in the 18th century. On its territory there is a chapel and a church in honor of the Archangel Michael, crowned with two towers. The altar of the monastery is decorated with the image of the Black Madonna.
People come to Subotica to get to Lake Palić. Its width is 4.2 thousand km², but its depth does not exceed 2 meters. The mineral water and mud of the lake have medicinal properties and have a positive effect on the skin and joints. For the convenience of vacationers along the coast there are cafes, bike paths, a picturesque park.
Is a ski resort in Serbia located in the south of. The subalpine climate allows you to enjoy the beauty of the mountains regardless of the season.
Thanks to the developed tourist infrastructure and ski slopes of various difficulty levels, the resort quickly won the love of travelers and began to compete with many European mountain complexes. What will pleasantly surprise guests: the prices for the services offered here are much lower than the European average.
The ski season lasts from November to May, the snow cover persists 160 days a year. The average air temperature is from -1 to -3 ° С during the day, from -8 to -15 ° С at night. Special lifts take tourists to the peaks, where you can get the necessary equipment for rent. There are special slopes for children, a large 20-kilometer track for flat skiing. Lovers of winter romance can ride along the illuminated track "Malo Ezero".
In summer, there is also something to see: the mountains are mesmerizing with dense forests, green meadows and flower meadows. Healing springs gush in the shady thickets, and recreation centers are set up next to them.
All sights of Serbia
Serbian national cuisine
Local cuisine has absorbed the best from neighbors and conquerors. In fact, it is a mixture of Eastern European tradition with Turkish-Arabic tradition.
Serbs are avid meat eaters. Deliciously cooked pork is served in all restaurants, while roasted lamb is more popular in the eastern regions of the country. Traditionally, meat in Serbia is used to prepare chops, chopped sausages, small kebabs, meat fried in a cauldron, and dried hams. Gourmets will definitely like the cold cuts, which consists of fried liver, pork cutlets, meatballs with onions and sausages. Mustard or cream is served as a sauce for meat.
Dairy products are not inferior in culinary demand, the main of which is kaymak - heavy cream similar to processed cheese. Also, not a single breakfast of local residents begins without feta cheese.
Vegetables are an integral part of the Serb diet. They are on the table, whether it's breakfast or dinner. Coarsely chopped salads and seasoned with vegetable oil are prepared from them. In addition, vegetables are stuffed, cooked in the oven and over an open fire. A separate place in the national cuisine is occupied by sweet red pepper, which is the basis of such characteristic dishes as paprikash, ayvar and pindzhur.
For dessert in Serbia, you will be served famous Turkish delicacies: baklava, tulumba, datla, burek, drizzled with syrup. But vanilla buns, pita breads with apples, manniks are considered natively Serbian.
Of the strong drinks, Serbs prefer local wines, moonshine from grapes, "rakia" on herbs, from plums, pears, and quince.
It is forbidden to grow genetically modified foods throughout the country, so feel free to enjoy the taste of natural vegetables and meat!
Accommodation
Serbia is very actively developing in terms of tourism, so you can easily find 3-4 star hotels and hotels in any large city. In the capital, representatives of world chains - Holiday Inn, Continental and others - offer their highest service to clients. You can book a room using the hotellook service, which will select the most profitable option for you. The cost of living in a double room ranges from 40 to 400 €.
Hostels are very popular among tourists - there are really a lot of them, for every wallet. Serbia's hostels are the cheapest in Europe, the price per bed in them varies from 7 to 15 €. Does not concede position and private rent apartments, rooms and even beds: arriving in the city, you will already at the station see both boards with themed announcements and the Serbs themselves offering accommodation for guests.
Vrnjachka BanyaThanks to its health and wellness resorts, Serbia has been called the “oasis of health in Europe”. More than 20 health centers operate in the country, offering services for the prevention, rehabilitation and treatment of various diseases with the help of mud, mineral water and the cleanest air.
- Vrnjačka Banja specializes in the treatment and rehabilitation of diabetes and diseases of the digestive system;
- Soko Banya - on the fight against non-specific lung diseases;
- Nishka Banya was created for the treatment of cardiac and rheumatic diseases.
- Many mountainous regions in Serbia are climatic centers: Zlatar, Zlatibor and Divchibar.
Lovers of winter sports prefer ski resorts located on the longest mountain range in Serbia, as well as the resort of Brezovica, located on the highest mountain range in Serbia, Shar Planina.
The best rest in the bosom of nature can be offered by the unique national parks of Serbia:
- Tara;
- Goliya.
A real rarity of nature with world significance, is Dzhavolya-Varosh ("City of the Devil"), consisting of earthen pyramids of bizarre shapes.
Admirers of the famous director Emir Kusturica should visit the ethnographic village he created on the top of the Mechavnik mountain. All streets are named after figures from the cinema, for example Federico Fellini Square. Emir Kusturica also became the founder of the Küstendorf film festival in Drvengrad.
Belgrade, major cities - Subotica, Novi Sad, Nis.
Direct flight:
no, transplant is required
Serbian
Time difference with Minsk:
2 hours behind
not needed, you can stay in the country up to 30 days
Currency unit:
Dinar / RSD (1 dinar = 100 pair), 1 EUR = ~ 84 RSD, 1 USD = ~ 54.3 RSD
Description
If you decided to spend your vacation in Serbia, you did a good choice... These lands will surprise you with something. Variety of reliefs, wealth flora, an abundance of balneological springs - all this is Serbia.
And here you will also find many ancient and outstanding monuments of architecture, history, culture and - what is important - amazing hospitality, benevolence and sincerity of Serbs and Montenegrins.
The country is divided into 2 regions - Serbia and Montenegro. This administrative division coincides with the natural one: Serbia is plains and lowlands, Croatia is mostly highlands and mountains. Both are interesting and beautiful.
In terms of climatic conditions, these territories are generally characterized by warm summer and mild winters, and on the plains summers are slightly warmer than in the mountains, and the Adriatic coast, to which Serbia has access, provides weather similar to the Mediterranean.
If you want to get the most out of your trip and get to know this country from all sides, you need to be ready for action and not be lazy to move from place to place. After all, every corner of Serbia is rich in sights, and they are all different and each is worthy of attention.
But whichever route you choose, be sure to take a closer look at the capital of Serbia, Belgrade. Belgrade is a city with a history of about three thousand years. In any case, a settlement on this place existed already 3 thousand years ago.
Today's Belgrade creates a sense of the original interweaving of the culture of the West and the East. The Serbs calculated that their capital was destroyed to the ground 39 times, and each time, like a phoenix, rose from the ashes, becoming even better.
In the south of the capital (about 300 km from it) there is a mountain range called Kapaonik. Be sure to visit from these mountains.
In addition to the fact that they are hundreds of kilometers of luxuriously sparkling snow slopes and mountain peaks, there is national reserve with unspoiled nature and fresh air.
But the main thing is that Kapaonik is a wonderful ski resort, both accessible for a beginner skier and interesting for an experienced athlete.
Road
From Minsk to Belgrade You can get there by plane, but there are no direct flights, you can get there with a transfer on flights of airlines and. Since transplants are carried out in European cities, a transit Schengen visa is required.
From Moscow to Belgrade Aeroflot and JAT Airways operate regular flights, the flight time is approximately 3 hours.
By train to Belgrade from Minsk you can go through Sofia or Budapest, but this will require a Schengen visa. There are b interchange carMoscow - Belgrade, travel time 50 hours, the route passes through the territory of Hungary, a transit Hungarian visa is required to travel.
From Nikola Tesla Airport to Belgrade can be reached by JAT Airways branded buses, which run every hour, from 6 am to 10 pm. They will take you to Slavia Square, which is located in the city center. The fare is 200 dinars (about $ 3.5).
City bus # 72 leaves the airport every half hour to the city center with all stops, the journey will take about an hour. The fare is 20 dinars (about $ 0.3).
Serbia map. Resorts, cities and regions on the map
Where to call, if that
Embassy of Serbia in Belarus:
Minsk, Surganova str., 29-A, phone: +37529 239 39 90
Embassy of Belarus in Serbia: Belgrade, st. Deligradska 13, phone: +381 11 3616938
Inquiry Office: 998
Tourist information: 987
Emergency services: police - 92, fire brigade - 93, ambulance - 94
Public transport and taxis
Railway transport of Serbia represented by the main line that runs from Subotica through Novi Sad, Belgrade, Niš, Pristina and further to Macedonia, the schedule is very convenient and trains run constantly. Another line is from Belgrade to the coast of the Adriatic Sea, which is very picturesque.
Trains are divided into four classes: "express" (express), "proverbs" (fast), "brzi" (high-speed) and "putnitski" (passenger). Prices vary, but they are not high.
In the summer, it is worth taking care of your ticket in advance and booking a few days in advance.
Public transport in cities of Serbia mostly represented by an outdated bus fleet. You can buy a ticket at any newsstand or from the driver (from the driver it is twice as expensive).
Taxi in Serbia quite inexpensive and very convenient way movement around the city, but it can cause unpleasant troubles, as taxi drivers try to deceive tourists. It makes sense to follow the road using a GPS navigator. It is better to order a taxi by phone, in this case the trip will cost 10-20% less.
When the car stops on the street, you should either negotiate the cost of the trip in advance, or make sure that the driver turns on the meter.
Where to stay
Serbia's hotels have long been in decline due to the war and the country's international isolation. Therefore, many hotels in Serbia are going through an intermediate stage on the way from the "Yugoslavian" old-style to the hotels of the European level. Hotels in Serbia are represented, among other things, by the roadside motel system, which offers reasonable prices and quality service.
Electricity: 220 V, 50 Hz. Sockets and plugs of the "European" type, with grounding. In rural areas, old-style connectors are often found - round two-pin, without grounding.
Power outages are common in Serbia, especially between November and April.
National cuisine
Serbian cuisine is varied. The cheapest appetizer itself is Balkan burek, puff pastry with cheese or meat and crompirus, which is the same burek, only with potatoes.
It is also worth trying grinded meat, which is called in Serbian chevapchichi and duvech- pork cutlet with peppers, tomatoes and rice cooked in the oven. Popular local dishes are moussaka- eggplants and tomatoes with layers of ground meat, stuffed cabbage sarma and kapama- lamb stewed with onions and lettuce stewed with yoghurt.
Popular drinks: beer, grape brandy and strong Turkish coffee, which is brewed in small cezves.
Dangers
The security situation in the country is ambiguous. The police are trying to suppress all manifestations of hostile attitude towards tourists, but cases of petty fraud are quite common, especially tourists should beware of fraud in the foreign exchange market, as well as pickpockets, who often "work" at the airport, in public institutions and in crowded places.
You should not carry valuables, documents and large amounts of money with you, remote areas of cities, after dark it is better to avoid.
Visa
Belarusians do not need a visa to visit Serbia; you can stay in the country for up to 30 days.
Customs
Allowed to import up to a liter of wine and spirits to persons over 16 years old, as well as up to 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco, 250 ml of cologne or 100 ml of perfume.
It is forbidden to bring into Serbia drugs, poisons, psychotropic and explosive substances, gold in raw form and in coins, weapons and ammunition, as well as pesticides.
It is possible to export items of historical, cultural and artistic value only with the permission of the Ministry of Foreign Economic Relations of Serbia.
Import and export of foreign currency is not limited, declaration is not required. Export of foreign currency without a declaration is possible if the amount is within 2000 euros.
Hunting weapons are allowed to be imported exclusively at the request of the Serbian Hunters Association
Weather forecast
Serbia climate temperate continental, warm summers, average temperature up to + 30C, snowy and mild winters, average temperature - 8C.
Best time to visit Serbia: May to September-October.
Sea and sun
Beaches in Serbia varied, there is both fine sand and dull small pebbles, which are somewhat reminiscent of buckwheat, in some resorts there are artificial beaches, which are a concrete platform.
Diversity is not only about the characteristics of the coast. here you can find crowded and secluded beaches, for textile workers and nudists, paid and free, most of them are located in bays closed from wind and waves between steep cliffs.
Car rental
Rent a car in Serbia very simple, for this you need an international license, pay a deposit for the car and be over 21 years old.
There is a tax for using two highways: about 7 euros for the section from the Hungarian border to Belgrade and 35 euros - from Belgrade to the Bulgarian border. The tax is levied at the motorway exit. All other roads are free and are often not in the best condition.
Money
You can change money at exchange offices that work every weekday from 7:00 to 16:00. You can also change currency at bank branches, at the train station and at the airport.
In the center of Belgrade, as well as in the resort areas, many currency exchange offices are open on weekends.
Shopping
The most popular souvenir from Serbia is gingerbread hearts... It is believed that the most delicious heart-shaped gingerbread is made in Sombor, where the tradition of making painted gingerbread has existed for over 100 years.
Shaykach- the national headdress of Serbia, which is always green. Its upper part looks like the letter "V" or like the bottom of a boat when you look at it from above.
Opanzi- traditional Serbian footwear with slightly curved toes. They are necessarily made by hand and from genuine leather. There are both real options that can be worn, and souvenir ones from 2 to 12 centimeters.
Jugs with dried plums another popular souvenir from Serbia. The most delicious dried plums in the world are stored in these jugs, which in themselves can be a wonderful souvenir.
Basil pouches embroidered by hand by Serbian craftswomen, since ancient times it is believed that such bags are a strong amulet.
Kolubar lace made by hand using the technique of Irish crochet. Lace is woven from the finest threads and is used as an accessory for clothing. or as tablecloths, napkins, curtains.
A traditional alcoholic souvenir drink from Serbia is considered rakiya, it is an analogue of brandy, made from different varieties of fruit. The most popular type of brandy is plum brandy
Shops in Serbia work from 9.00 to 21.00 with a lunch break from 12.00 to 16.00. Large shopping centers usually work from 6.00-7.00 to 21.00, and at resort areas and in large cities there are also "round-the-clock" shops.
Tips
In restaurants and taxis in Serbia, it is usually customary to leave 10% of the bill
Features of the country and nation
Serbs are considered to be somewhat more reserved and harsh than Montenegrins. However, in order to notice these features, you will probably have to come here with a clear prejudice towards the Serbian people, so zealously supported in the West lately.
The fate of the Serbs is tragic and heroic at the same time. Suffice it to say that not a single war that has swept across the European continent over the past two millennia has passed this small country, several times smaller than, for example, Switzerland, which has not been at war with anyone for 600 years. Therefore, one should not be surprised that the inhabitants of Serbia are indeed ardent nationalists, and they do not hide this fact. However, their nationalism is completely different from what in some places they are used to describing in terrible propaganda about the Balkan wars. This is a common sense of national self-sufficiency, gained through centuries of suffering, pride in our history and the deeds of our ancestors, as well as bitterness over the centuries-old genocide of Serbs and the limitations of some politicians, including our own Serbs.
In general, they are the same hospitable and open people, like most of the South Slavic tribes. Serbs also sacredly honor their culture, like Montenegrins, they have also relied on the main stronghold of their nation - the Serbian Orthodox Church for centuries, they also like to set the table, receive guests and arrange all kinds of festivities, eat the same dishes and even speak practically the same language. as the rest of the peoples of the former Yugoslavia. Even young Serbs know the history of their country at the level of a professional historian, and excursions to memorable places will be conducted no worse than an experienced guide.
In the very heart of the Balkan Peninsula, the Republic of Serbia is located - a country with a Slavic soul and Turkish traditions. The kindness and hospitality of the Serbs is one of the main attractions of Serbia. The protracted military conflict at the end of the 20th century taught the Serbian people to love and respect all living things, to look to the future with optimism. European tourists are attracted to this amazing country not by the chic and luxury of tourist services, but by the cleanest air, virgin nature and human (and not commercial) relationships between people.
Due to the geographical position of Serbia, its history is "replete" with all kinds of conquests and conquests (Illyrian and Celtic tribes, the Roman Empire, the Ottoman Empire, etc.). Today, this is reflected in wealth. national customs and traditions, as well as the multinationality of the country's inhabitants.
Modern Serbia has a rich tourism potential: ski and health resorts, hunting and fishing grounds, incredible national parks, etc.
Capital |
Belgrade |
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Population |
7 120.7 thousand people |
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Population density |
80 people / km² |
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Serbian, Hungarian, Albanian, Romanian, Slovak, Croatian are common among national minorities |
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Religion |
Orthodoxy, a small proportion of the population Catholics, Muslims and Protestants |
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Form of government |
parliamentary republic |
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Serbian dinar (RSD) = 100 pairs |
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Timezone |
UTC + 1, in summer UTC + 2 |
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International dialing code |
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Domain zone on the Internet |
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Electricity |
Climate and weather
The climate of Serbia was formed under the influence of the features of the relief. In the north of the country lies the Middle Danube lowland with huge fertile plains, the central part is characterized by hilly relief, and ancient mountains rise in the southeast. Warm seas ( Black, Aegean and Adriatic), washing the shores of the Balkan Peninsula. As a result, a continental climate prevails in the north of the country, a temperate continental climate in the center and south, and a mountainous climate in the mountains.
Winters in Serbia are usually short (no more than 2 months) and mild, but quite snowy. The average air temperature during this period is approximately 0 ... + 5 ° C... Summer is long and hot (+ 28 ... + 30 ° C)... Most rainfall occurs in May and June.
Mild Serbian winters are often overshadowed by piercing cold winds, which even received their own names:
- Koshava - cold wind blowing from October to April in the north of the country and bringing with it freezing rains and snowstorms;
- Severac - north wind from Hungary;
- Moravac is a cold north wind in the Morava river valley.
Nature
In the north of the country, on the territory of the Middle Danube Lowland (or the Pannonian Plain, as it is called in Hungary), there is the Vojvodina Autonomous Region. Today there are almost no forests here. The land of Vojvodina is very fertile and is actively used for agricultural crops of corn, wheat, vegetables and, of course, sunflowers. A blooming field of sunflowers in beauty can compete with the most unprecedented landscapes that exist on planet Earth.
Serbia ranks second in Europe (after Hungary) in terms of the number of rivers and lakes. The largest and most majestic among the Serbian rivers is undoubtedly the Danube, which forms many bays, oxbows, swamps and a magnificent Djerdap gorge, the narrowest part of which is often called the "iron gate". The Djerdap Gorge consists of four gorges and three hollows. In some places, sheer cliffs rise 300 meters above the Danube waters. Here the river abounds in numerous pools up to 90 meters deep. On the territory of the Djerdap Gorge, there is a national park of the same name, the pride of which is the numerous relict plants that have long disappeared in most of Europe.
The southern part of western and eastern Serbia is mountainous. There are 4 mountain systems on the territory of the country: the Dinaric Highlands, the Balkan Mountains, the East Serbian Mountains and part of the Rila-Rhodope system. The height of 15 mountains in Serbia exceeds 2000 meters. In the mountains of Serbia, endless oak forests, beech and linden forests have found refuge.
sights
The capital of the state Belgrade, located at the confluence of two beautiful rivers, is a kind of gateway that opens an unforgettable traveler's path to Serbia. Danube and Sava... An ancient fortress is located in the heart of the city Kalemegdan(XII-XVII centuries). Today, on the territory of the historical complex, there are a number of interesting sights: Orthodox churches, Muslim graves, Turkish baths, a military museum. Near the fortress is the oldest part of the city, Stari Grad, on the winding streets of which numerous museums, palaces and the best restaurants capital Cities.
The second largest city in Serbia is Novi Sad which is famous for its rich cultural life... For this Novi Sad is called "Serbian Athens"... In this city, you can visit various museums and art galleries, as well as all kinds of international festivals and exhibitions.
History has scattered many defensive fortresses throughout the country: the largest fortress in Europe, occupying 11 hectares, is located in Smederevo; in the town Bach there is a medieval fortress, the oldest in Vojvodina; Golubatskaya fortress- a medieval town near the Djerdap Gorge; Smederevo Fortress is the largest medieval town on the Danube. During the numerous invasions of the invaders, defensive functions were also performed by Orthodox monasteries in which they hid locals to avoid bloody massacre. Monasteries Zicha, Mileseva, Sopochany and Studenica are objects world heritage UNESCO.
Nutrition
Culinary traditions are mixed in the original Serbian cuisine different nations: Slavic, Turkish, Mediterranean, Hungarian. The main ingredients of Serbian cuisine are meat, vegetables and spices. The main meat products are lamb and pork. Traditional Serbian meat dishes are “ chevapchichi»- minced meat sausages, "Hanger"- chops stuffed with spices, "Hayduk"- grilled meat, " Karadjordje schnitzel»- thin steak fried in breadcrumbs, etc. All of them are distinguished by simplicity of preparation and unforgettable taste. Meat in this country is always served with all kinds of herbs, vegetables and cornbread. "Proya".
Bread among the Serbs, like all Slavs, is a symbol of prosperity. There is always white pogacha bread on the table, as well as popara made from milk, cheese and white bread.
Vegetables are a special component of the Serbian table. Serbian vegetables are used to prepare coarsely chopped salads dressed with olive oil, as well as delicious hot dishes: “ punyena tikvitsa"- pumpkin stuffed with meat and rice," moussaka"- eggplants and tomatoes with layers of meat, vegetable dumplings, Serbian bean goulash, cabbage rolls" sarma" and many many others.
Various unsweetened pastries are popular: “ burek"- a puff pastry stuffed with cheese and meat," zelyanitsa"- pie with cheese and herbs, etc.
Serbs' favorite non-alcoholic drink is coffee, consumed here in incredible quantities - for historical Turkish influence.
Serbia also has its own high quality wines: "Smedervka", "Prokupats", "Zhupsko" and others. Among the spirits, grape moonshine deserves attention. rakiya" and " lozovach»And strong local beer Niksichko.
Accommodation
Numerous hotels and hotels offer their services for accommodation in the largest cities of Serbia and in resorts. The cost of living in a double room ranges from 40 to 400 €. Serbia's hostels are the cheapest in Europe, the price per bed in them varies from 7 to 15 €.
Entertainment and recreation
Thanks to its health and wellness resorts, Serbia has been called the “oasis of health in Europe”. More than 20 health centers operate in the country, offering services for the prevention, rehabilitation and treatment of various diseases with the help of mud, mineral water and the cleanest air.
- Vrnjachka Banya specializes in the treatment and rehabilitation of diabetes, as well as diseases of the digestive system;
- Soko Banya- on the fight against non-specific lung diseases;
- Nishka Banya created for the treatment of cardiac and rheumatic diseases.
Many mountainous regions in Serbia are climatic centers: Zlatar, Zlatibor and Divchibar.
Among winter sports enthusiasts, the most popular are the ski resorts located on the longest mountain range in Serbia - Kopaonik as well as a resort Brezovica located on the highest mountain range in Serbia Shar-Planina.
The best rest in the bosom of nature can be offered by the unique national parks of Serbia:
- Jerdap;
- Tara;
- Fruska gora;
- Goliya.
A real rarity of nature of global importance is Javol-Varosh("Devil's city"), consisting of earthen pyramids of bizarre shapes.
Fans of the famous director Emir Kusturica should visit the ethnographic village he created on the top of the mountain. Swordsman. All the streets here are named after the figures of the cinema, for example, Federico Fillini Square. Emir Kusturica also became the founder of the International Film Festival Küstendorf film festival in Drvengrad.
Purchases
Souvenirs that are sold in specialized shops in Serbia, as well as during all kinds of folklore festivals, are often handmade, i.e. each unit is unique and represents a kind of work of art. Such products include figurines, dishes, jewelry, etc. made of ceramics, wood and copper, as well as items of woolen or linen clothing, made in both national and modern styles. Serbian embroideries and products made of the finest lace are very popular among tourists. Tastefully made "pot-bellied" bottle of strong brandy will also be a wonderful gift brought from Serbia.
Transport
Due to its geographical position, Serbia has become the shortest transport corridor between the countries of Western Europe and the Middle East, Africa and Central Europe.
Air transport connection Serbia is provided with 4 airports (near the cities of Belgrade, Novi Sad, Uzice and Niš), of which only the airport of the capital is international.
River transport is of great importance for the country's economy. The Danube and Sava rivers are navigable. The largest river ports are located in cities such as Belgrade, Novi Sad, Smederevo, Pancevo and Sabac. Tourists are offered interesting excursions on the largest rivers flowing through the territory of Serbia, on ships departing from the Belgrade river port on the Sava River.
The country's main railway network runs in river valleys from northwest to southeast. Travel with railway transport it is very difficult for foreign tourists, since the trains run with a huge delay (up to 2-3 hours), they do not depart from the platforms indicated on the information board (even in Belgrade), and the quality of the rolling stock is very low.
The road network in the country is well developed and the quality of the pavement is also quite good (except for mountainous areas), despite the fact that during the recent hostilities the roads were badly damaged. Tourists traveling by car will need to pay a toll for using the motorway (at the exit), the amount of which depends on the distance. The rest of the roads are free.
Connection
Mobile telephony in Serbia is provided by 4 operators: Mobilna Telefonija Srbije, Vala-900, Monaco Telecom and MobTel. The coverage area of these companies includes the entire territory of Serbia and Kosovo. It is very easy to connect to a mobile operator; you just need to buy a SIM card at a cellular office, numerous shops, kiosks of printed and tobacco products, or at post offices. To make a call abroad, you can also use a card-operated street telephone booth that provides good call quality.
Internet access is provided in numerous Internet cafes, which can be found in all cities of Serbia. Only the most expensive hotels and hotels offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. In hostels, as a rule, there is Internet, but from a stationary computer.
Security
The crime rate in Serbia is quite high level... There is a certain category of criminals who “specialize” in tourists - pickpocketing, illegal currency transactions and all kinds of fraud, including assistance in storing property, performing transactions using an ATM, etc. While in Serbia, tourists should carefully monitor their valuables, try not to be in remote desert areas of cities at night.
In all settlements, including Belgrade, it is almost impossible to find a trash can, so locals are used to throwing garbage at their feet, as well as from the windows of moving vehicles, including cars and trains. This behavior has led to the fact that the outskirts of many cities have turned into garbage dumps where hungry wild and homeless animals can scour in search of food.
When traveling in the mountainous regions of the country, you should be extremely careful, as landslides caused by heavy rainstorms are not uncommon here. In many places, the safety net protecting the roads from falling stones is damaged and does not fulfill its function.
Business climate
The recovering economy of Serbia is interested in an active inflow of foreign investment. The following factors contribute to the stimulation of financial flows into the country: geographical position Serbia, relatively inexpensive highly qualified work force, existing agreements on free trade, including with Russia, which ensures the presence of huge markets for products, a favorable tax regime (tax rate on wages at only 12%, is the lowest in Europe; income tax - 10%; value added tax - 18%), a huge likelihood of Serbia's inclusion in the European Union in the coming years.
The presence of a huge bureaucratic apparatus and, accordingly, the excessive length of administrative procedures have a negative impact on the development of a business climate attractive to investors.
Real estate
Foreigners are allowed to purchase real estate in Serbia. An exception is land that can be rented for a period of 5 to 30 years.
When buying real estate in Serbia, you should carefully check all the documents, since as a result of long-term armed conflicts, many properties were illegally built or illegally acquired. If the documentation is in order, then the parties conclude a sale / purchase agreement and the following payments are made: to the real estate agent - 3% of the value of the property, to the notary - about 1%, state duty - 0.01-0.05%, title transfer tax - 5 % (according to the law, the seller must pay, but the contract may stipulate what the buyer pays). The process of buying real estate in Serbia is quite lengthy and takes from 2 to 6 months.
Small cottages in the countryside, in the mountains, on the banks of rivers and lakes cost from 25,000 to 85,000 €. The cost of 1 square meter in the capital is 1,000-1,800 €, in large cities - 600-800 €.
In Serbia, there is a list of places that cannot be photographed for the purpose of republican security. These include ports, bridges, power plants and military installations.
The tap water in Serbia is not potable; it is either highly chlorinated or contaminated due to the severe deterioration of the water supply in the country. To avoid intestinal upset, it is best to drink bottled water.
Traditional 95th gasoline in Serbia is designated as “ 95 bezolovni ", 92nd - "95".
In Serbia, smoking is very widespread among the population, up to smoking in playgrounds, so non-smoking tourists should be very careful to take tickets to non-smoking train carriages, to book tables in non-smoking halls in restaurants, etc.
Serbia in terms of area (88,361 sq. Km.) Ranks 113th in the world. In the north, Serbia borders Hungary, in the northeast with Romania, in the east with Bulgaria, in the south with the former Yugoslav Macedonia, in the southwest with Albania and Montenegro, in the west with Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The length of its borders is 2,027 km (with Romania 476 km, with Bulgaria 318 km, with Macedonia 221 km, with Montenegro 203 km, with Albania 115 km, with Bosnia and Herzegovina 302 km, with Croatia 241 km, with Hungary 151 km). There are 6,167 registered settlements in Serbia, of which 207 are urban types. Arable land occupies 19.194 km2, forests - 19.499 km2 (without Kosovo).
Extreme points - North: 46 ° 11` N. (near Hajdukovo), South: 41 ° 52` N (near Dragash in Kosovo), East: 23 ° 01` E (Senokos, near Dimitrovgrad), Western: 18 ° 51` east. (near Bezdan in Vojvodina). 80 percent of Serbia's territory is located on the Balkan Peninsula, 20 percent is occupied by the Pannonian Lowland. The length of the borders is 2,027 km (with Romania - 476 km, with Bulgaria - 318 km, with Macedonia - 221 km, with Montenegro - 203 km, with Albania - 115 km, with Bosnia and Herzegovina - 302 km, with Croatia - 241 km , with Hungary - 151 km).
Plains prevail in the north of Serbia. 15 mountains in Serbia are over 2,000 meters above sea level. There are 4 mountain systems in Serbia. The Dinaric Highlands occupy a large area in the west, stretching from northwest to southeast. Stara Planina and the East Serbian Mountains are in the east, separated from the Dinaric Highlands by the Morava River. In the south there are ancient mountains - part of the Rila-Rhodope system. Highest point Serbia - Mount Jeravica (2656 meters)
Relief of Serbia
The relief of Serbia is varied. Vojvodina has fertile plains. In the southeast, there are ancient mountains. Central Serbia is dominated by hills and low mountains.
Mountains occupy most of Central Serbia and Kosovo. There are 4 mountain systems in Serbia. The Dinaric Highlands occupy a large area in the west, stretching from northwest to southeast. Stara Planina and the East Serbian Mountains are in the east, separated from the Dinaric Highlands by the Morava River. In the south there are ancient mountains - part of the Rila-Rhodope system. The highest point in Serbia is Mount Jeravica (2656 m)
Inland waters of Serbia
Most of Serbia (81.646 km2, 92.4%) belongs to the Danube basin, which in Serbia is 588 km long. 5% - to the Adriatic Sea basin, 3% - to the Aegean Sea basin. The length of the Danube in Serbia is 588 km; the border with Romania and Croatia runs along it. The main tributaries of the Danube in Serbia are Tisza (flows from the north), Sava (from the west), Drina (from the south, natural border with Bosnia and Herzegovina), Morava (from the south, completely in Serbia).
Statistical indicators of Serbia
(as of 2012)
In addition to the Danube, navigable rivers are Sava (206 km), Tisza (168 km), Begei (75 km), partially navigable - Velika Morava (3 km out of 185 km) and Tamish (3 km out of 101 km). Other large rivers- West Morava (308 km), South Morava (295 km), Ibar (272 km), Drina (220 km) and Timok (202 km). Part of southern Serbia belongs to the basin of the Beli Dream and Radik rivers (4.771 km, 5.4%), which flow into the Adriatic. Basins of the Pchinya rivers. Lepenac and Dragovishtitsa belong to the Aegean Sea basin. A number of artificial canals have also been built in Serbia, which are used for flood protection, irrigation, etc. Their total length is 939.2 km, of which 385.9 km are used for navigation of vessels with a tonnage of up to 1000 tons. Largest system canals is Danube-Tisza-Danube. The largest lake in Serbia is Lake Djerdap. The largest natural lake- White Lake. Most big Island Serbia is located on the Danube near Kostolc. There are also waterfalls in Serbia, the largest is Jelovarnik (71 meters), it is located in the Kopaonik National Park.
The abundance of relatively unpolluted surface waters and many sources of underground natural mineral waters provide an opportunity for export and economic development. However, the widespread use and production of bottled water began only recently. Serbia has great geothermal potential.
Natural lakes in Serbia are small and rare. Most of them are located in Vojvodina. But there are many reservoirs in Serbia. The largest of them are Djerdap on the Danube, Perucac on the Drina.
Serbia climate
In Serbia - temperate continental, on the Adriatic coast - Mediterranean. V central regions countries are always somewhat cooler than on the coast, and the influence of subalpine factors is more noticeable. In the seaside region, summer is usually long, hot (+ 23-25 C) and rather dry, winter is short and cool (+ 3-7 C). In mountainous regions, the summer is moderately warm (+ 19-25 C) and relatively cold (+5 to -10 C), abundant in snow, winter. Precipitation falls from 500 to 1500 mm per year, mainly in the form of rain, in the mountains near the sea coast in some places it falls over 3000 mm.
The best time to visit the country is from May to September-October. The tourist season usually starts in April and lasts until November. The sea temperature for seven months ranges from +20 C to +26 C, so the swimming season is equal in duration to the tourist one.
Serbia is located on the Balkan Peninsula, surrounded by warm seas- Adriatic, Aegean and Black. North of Serbia is the European continent. Others important factor The main determinant of the Serbian climate is the relief. Serbia is dominated by a continental climate in the north, temperate continental in the south and a mountainous climate in the mountainous regions. Winters in Serbia are short, cold and snowy, summers are warm. The coldest month is January, the warmest is July. The average temperature is 10.9 ° C. Average annual quantity precipitation - 896 mm. Most of the rain falls in June and May.
Most strong winds are: Kosava (cold and dry wind in the north of the country), Severac (cold and dry north wind), Moravac (cold and dry north wind blowing in the Morava valley), South wind (warm and dry south wind blowing in the river valley Moravians). Southwestern wind (warm and humid, blowing from the Adriatic, mainly in the West of Serbia).
Flora and fauna of Serbia
Very rich in plant and animal world... Four-fifths of the forest area is deciduous and one-fifth is coniferous forests. Serbia is inhabited by bears, wild boars, wolves, foxes, hares, wild goats, fallow deer, mouflons, lynxes, deer, martens, chamois ... The bird world is also diverse: out of 666 bird species found in Europe, 508 species live in Serbia, and among them are eagles, falcons, pheasants, partridges, wild ducks, marsh snipe and other wading birds. Rivers, lakes, canals, ponds abound different kinds fish: carp, pike perch, sturgeon, catfish, sterlet, pike, trout, mackerel ...
Serbia population
Population - 7.82 million people (in 2008) (in 1991 - 9.79 million people); including: in Central Serbia - 5.82 million, in Vojvodina - 2 million. 52% of the population lives in cities.
During the disintegration of Yugoslavia in 1991-1995, several hundred thousand refugees from Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina arrived in Serbia. In 1999, there was a large wave of emigration of Albanians from Kosovo, and in 2000-2001 - emigration of Kosovo Serbs. The population is dominated by Serbs (62 percent) and Albanians (17 percent). Serbia is also home to Montenegrins (5 percent), Hungarians (3 percent) and a number of national minorities. Before the outbreak of hostilities in 1999, Serbs constituted 85 percent of the population of Serbia proper, 54 percent in Vojvodina and 13 percent in Kosovo; Hungarians and Croats are numerous minorities in Vojvodina.
The official language of the country is Serbian. In Vojvodina, Hungarian, Slovak, Croatian, Romanian, Ukrainian and Ruthenian are also spoken. In Kosovo and Metohija, the official ones are Serbian and Albanian.
According to the 2002 census, without Kosovo: Orthodox - 6,371,584 people. (85.0% of the population), Catholics - 410 976 people. (5.5% of the population), Muslims - 239 658 people. (3.2%), Protestants - 80,837 people. (1.1% of the population). Jehovah's Witnesses - 3,871 (0.05% of the population) as of 2009
Source - http://ru.wikipedia.org/
Belgrade. Serbia.
- the capital of Serbia, located "On the banks of one of the four rivers of paradise", or rather, where the Sava River flows into the Danube.
Belgrade was founded by the Celts in the 4th-3rd centuries. BC, the settlement was called Singidunum, which means "hill". The city still retains its uneven relief, and it is often, like Rome, called the city on the seven hills. In 33 BC. the settlement was conquered by the Romans and a white-stone fortress was erected. In the 7th century, the Slavs appeared, then the name White City was first heard, some sources associate it with the color of the fortress walls, but this can also mean the city of the north wind. In the XI-XII centuries. Belgrade was part of Byzantium, and since 1284 - Serbia.
In 1521 the city was captured by the Turks, the Ottoman period began, which lasted until 1867, with a short break (1718-1739), when Belgrade was part of Austria. In the 17th century, Belgrade was considered the most important city under the rule of the Sultan in Europe, with the exception of Constantinople. In 1806 Belgrade was liberated from Turkish influence, but from 1813 to 1830. the city again fell under the rule of the Ottomans, in 1830 Belgorod became the capital of the Serbian principality, but the fortress in the center of the city remained Turkish until 1867.
Since 1918, Belgrade has become the capital of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, and then since 1929 - Yugoslavia.
In the 1920s, Belgrade was the center of Russian emigration, our countries were linked by a common Christian religion and constant Russian-Slavic relations. According to the "Sovereign Committee", there were about 10 thousand Russians in Belgrade, mainly of intellectual professions. Russian architects left a big mark in the city, for example, the old royal palace in Dedin was built according to the project of a Russian architect.
During the Second World War, Belgrade was occupied by German troops; after the liberation and the end of the war, the city turned into a large industrial center.
After the collapse of Yugoslavia, in 1992 Serbia and Montenegro founded their own state with the capital in Belgrade, which disintegrated in 2006.
In 1999, Belgrade was bombed by NATO during the Kosovo War.
"In 78 days of air raids on Belgrade and other cities in Serbia, more explosives were detonated than were detonated in Hiroshima at the end of World War II."
In 1876, after the massacre of the Serbian population by the Turks, Victor Hugo published an article “For Serbia”: “People are being killed. Where? In Europe. Are there any witnesses to this act? One: the whole world. Do European governments see it? No". The article, written over a hundred years ago, has not lost its relevance at that time.
During these years, Serbia was in international isolation, there were numerous sanctions against it, and many countries were hostile.
Belgrade is now the capital of Serbia, the population of the city is 1.2 million inhabitants.
The historic center is located on the banks of the Sava River.
But before talking about 10 must-see places in Belgrade, let us recall the words of "the most famous writer of the most hated people" Milorad Pavic, in the book "Biography of Belgrade" he writes:
“Anyone who has come to know and love this city today knows and loves it not at all because you can see or touch it with your hand. Not a trace remains of the larger and, perhaps, the most beautiful part of Belgrade, we will never be able to look at it, we will not be able to photograph it or touch it. But history also belongs to another, disappeared part, one that does not lend itself to reconstruction, one that is stored not in the world around us, but in our soul. "
Belgrade. Serbia.
Kalemegdan. Belgrade. Serbia.
Name comes from Turkish: "kale" - "city, fortress" and "megdan" - "battlefield". Turks also called Kalemegdan "Fichir-bair", which means "a hill for reflection".
The Belgrade Fortress rises where the Sava River merges with the Danube. Currently, the fortress is a museum complex of the history of Belgrade, which includes the Upper Town, the Lower Town and the Kalemegdan Park.
The fortress existed in the days of the ancient Romans, when the camp of two legions was located here. And nearby there was a settlement of traders and artisans.
The fortress was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt.
At the beginning of the 15th century, under the despot Stefan Lazarevich, Belgrade became the capital of Serbia, and the fortress was additionally fortified, a new palace was built and military harbor... The despot himself collected a rich collection of books in his house, which formed the basis of the first Belgrade library.
At this time, Belgrade turned into an economic and cultural center, with developed trade and crafts.
The appearance of the city also changed, now it consisted of two parts - a fortress and a lower city, lying on the banks of the Danube and Sava rivers.
The fortress is located in the upper part, there is a park adjacent to it, which became such in the second half of the 19th century, when the Turks left Serbia for good.
The remains of the palace of despot Stefan Lazarevich, the clock tower erected in 174-89, the Turbe (tomb) of Damad-Ali-Pasha, built in 1738, a Roman well 60 meters deep, as well as the "Winner!" Monument erected in honor of despot Stefan Lazarevich, Ruzica Churches and Holy Heel Chapel.
In the lower part there was a settlement, which Stefan Lazarevich surrounded with a wall.
Here are the remains of the Metropolitan Palace, the Metropolitan Church of the Assumption of the Virgin, the gate of Charles VI, built in 1736 in the Baroque style; powder store 1789-1720; Nebojsa tower, which was the tallest medieval tower, built around 1460.
The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is located in the northeastern part of the Belgrade fortress. The first church on this site was erected at the beginning of the 15th century, but the Turks destroyed it during the capture of Belgrade in 1521. The current building of the church dates back to 1867-69. At the entrance to Ruzica (rose) there are two statues - Tsar Stefan Dušan and a Serbian soldier from the First World War.
Monument "Winner!" Belgrade.
2. Knez Mihailova Street
Knyaz Mihailo Street is the main pedestrian street in Belgrade and one of the oldest corners of the city, which got its appearance in late XIX century. There are numerous restaurants, bars and shops of well-known brands along the street (shoppers should be noted).
Knyaz Michael Street. Belgrade. Serbia.
Knyaz Michael Street acquired its modern look in 1867.
Until the 1950s, the houses of the wealthy and noble families of Belgrade were located here.
In the house number 7 there is a kafana (tavern) "Russian Tsar", the building was erected in 1922-26. The upper floors were intended for residential premises, below - office buildings, and on the ground floor - a restaurant. Unfortunately, the original interior of the kafana was destroyed in the 1960s.
The magnificent Art Nouveau passage of Nikola Spasich occupies house number 19.
House No. 35 houses the building of the Serbian Academy of Arts and Sciences, built in 1923-1924. in an academic style. A pyramid is installed in front of the academy, on four sides of which latitude and longitude are indicated, as well as the height and acceleration of gravity at a given point.
In the house 53-55 there is a gallery of the Academy, founded in 1937. In the late XIX - early XX centuries. the house belonged to Marko Stojanovic, vice-governor of the National Bank and a well-known amateur photographer. Marko Stojanovic was the first in Belgrade to use a typewriter with Cyrillic letters.
As a photographer, Stojanovic left a series of photographs about the life of Belgrade at the turn of the century, which are kept in the archives of the National Bank.
The house number 56 houses the hotel "Srpska Kruna", built in 1869 in the style of romanticism. Now the city library of Belgrade is located here.
3. Temple of St. Sava
Temple of Saint Sava is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Its history began in 1894, when it was decided to build a church on the site of the burning in 1594 by the Turks of the most revered Saint Sava in Serbia.After numerous competitions, the construction of the temple began in 1935; in 1939, Patriarch Gabriel consecrated the altar. The second World War stopped work, which continued only in 1986. Three years later, the dome was completed, and the interior decoration of the temple continues to this day.
The area of the temple of St. Sava is almost 17,000 square meters. The interior will be in Byzantine style.
4. Cathedral of St. Michael the Archangel
The first mentions of cathedral Saint Archangel Michael belong to the XVI century. After the Turks destroyed the temple in early XVIII century, it was restored with voluntary donations. In 1836 the cathedral was demolished and the next year a new building was erected by order of Prince Milos Obrenovic. The facade of the church is made in the style of classicism, the bell tower is an example of the late baroque.The Serbian princes Milos and Mikhail Obrenovici, St. Prince Stefan Shtilyanovich, Metropolitan Michael, Metropolitan and Partiarch Innokenty and Patriarch Gabriel.
Opposite is the building of the Patriarchate.
Patriarchy. Belgrade. Serbia.
5. Kafana "Question mark"
At the intersection with Kralja Petra Street is the oldest Belgrade kafana "Question mark", the sign just depicts a question mark "?".Kafana is a restaurant specializing in Serbian cuisine. Legend has it that the owner of the kafana could not remember what name he decided to give the establishment, while the artist was already waiting with a brush to place it on the sign. Tired of waiting, he drew a question mark and told the owner to call him when he remembered the name.
Kafana "Question mark". Belgrade.
6. Konak Kneginja Lubice
Konak Kneginja Lubice - the palace of Princess Lubica, the wife of Prince Miloš Obrenovic and their sons, is located on the street of Prince Sim Markovic at house no. 8.. The building was erected in 1829-1830. as the official princely residence designed by the architect Hadji-Nikola Zhivkovich. The palace is a typical example of urban architecture of the first half of the XIX century and belongs to the Serbo-Balkan style.Lyubica was known as a strict and independent woman, her influence on Serbian politics was very strong, quite often her views diverged from those of her husband. In 1842, supporters of the Karageorgievichs revolted, and representatives of the Obrenovich family were forced to flee abroad. On May 26, 1843, Ljubica Obrenovic died in Vienna. She is buried in the Krushedol monastery on Fruska Gora.
In 1842, when Alexander Karageorgievich came to power, the building served as a lyceum, then a court of cassation and appeal, an art museum, a church museum, a nursing home, an institute for the protection of cultural monuments of Serbia and is currently part of the City Museum.
Princess Lyubitsa. Belgrade.
7. Skadarlija
Skadarlija- the old quarter of Belgrade, which turned into a bohemian area at the end of the 19th century. It is a small but very picturesque area full of restaurants specializing in Serbian cuisine - kafans. The most famous kafans are “Three hats”, “Two white doves”, “Two deer. They brought together people of art, poets, actors, singers and artists.V early XIX century Skadarliya was outside the city walls, these lands were chosen by the gypsies and they enjoyed a bad reputation. In 1867, the Turkish army left Belgrade, the city began to expand and modernize in a European manner. The Roma were dispersed, and on the site of their settlement, craftsmen's houses, small offices and kafans were built. In 1872, the district (in fact, one street) received its modern name. considered one of the symbols of Belgrade, it is dedicated to the apostle and evangelist. The church was designed in the Serbian-Byzantine style by architects Petar and Branko Krstic and was built from 1931 to 1940, on the site of an earlier construction in 1835.
Inside there is a sarcophagus with the remains of the Serbian ruler Stefan Dusan, who created the Serbian kingdom, as well as the graves of King Alexander and Queen Draga, who were brutally killed in 1903 by conspirators, their death in Serbia ended the rule of the House of Obrenovici.
By the way, Queen Draga defended her husband-king until the last minute.
Here is a description of the murder, written in the early 20th century: “... they struck the King with six shots from a revolver and 40 blows of a saber, and the Queen with 63 blows of a saber and two revolver bullets. The Queen was almost completely chopped off, her chest was cut off, her stomach was opened, her cheeks, her arms were also cut, especially large cuts between the fingers - the Queen probably grabbed the saber with her hands when she was killed, which apparently refutes the doctors' opinion that she was killed immediately. In addition, her body was covered with numerous bruises from the blows of the heels of the officers who trampled on her. I prefer not to talk about other abuses over Draghi's corpse, to such an extent they are monstrous and disgusting. When the murderers made fun of the defenseless corpses, they threw them through the window into the palace garden, and Draghi's corpse was completely naked "...
Church of St. Mark. Belgrade. Serbia.
9. Grave of Wrangel
Behind the Church of St. Mark is a small one, built by Russian émigrés in 1924 under the leadership of Valery Stashevsky. They laid an inch of Russian soil at the foundation of the church.
Church of the Holy Trinity. Belgrade. Serbia.
Until 1944, the battle banners of Napoleon and Turkish banners brought to Belgrade by White Guard emigrants were kept here, but in 1944, before the arrival of the Soviet army, they disappeared without a trace from the church.
To the right of the entrance is grave of Peter Nikolaevich Wrangel.
Baron Wrangel died in 1928 in Brussels after a sudden infection with tuberculosis. Although the relatives were sure that Wrangel had been poisoned.
Subsequently, the ashes of Peter Nikolaevich were transferred to Belgrade, where the baron was solemnly reburied on October 6, 1929. He was buried "in a fraternal Slavic Orthodox country" was the desire of the Russian officer himself.
The iconostasis of the temple includes 48 icons painted by Russian émigré artists in the old Novgorod style.
Church of the Holy Trinity and Wrangel's tomb. Belgrade. Serbia.
Not far from him there is a monument "Zashto?", On which 16 names are engraved.
Monument "Zashto?"
“In 1999, eighteen Western European countries and the United States, NATO members, attacked Yugoslavia. In seventy-eight days of air raids, these new crusaders unleashed more explosives on Belgrade and other cities in Serbia than were detonated in Hiroshima at the end of World War II. Since then, one of the main streets of Belgrade, Miloš the Great Street, has become unrecognizable. "
Excerpt from the book: Pavich, Milorad. "Biography of Belgrade"
We would like to thank the Ministry of Tourism of Serbia and Luna-Travel (lunatravelserbia.com) for organizing the trip.
