Belgrade

Belgrade, the capital and largest city of Serbia, lies at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers in the central Balkans. The name, from Serbian Beograd, is traditionally interpreted as "White City" or "White Fortress." The city serves as Serbia's political, cultural, and economic center, with about 1.2 million residents in the city proper and more in the metro area.

Belgrade's history spans more than two thousand years. It began as the Roman settlement Singidunum, later becoming a key site for Byzantium and medieval Serbia. The fortress of Kalemegdan overlooks the confluence and has been rebuilt by successive rulers, including Ottomans and Habsburgs. The city grew as a capital or major center under Ottoman, Habsburg, and modern Serbian states and has played a central role in the region's events through to today.

Major landmarks and districts define Belgrade's skyline and culture. Kalemegdan Fortress and its park overlook the rivers. The Temple of Saint Sava is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the region. Other notable sites include Republic Square, Knez Mihailova Street, Skadarlija, and Ada Ciganlija, a river island park. Cultural institutions include the National Museum of Serbia, the National Theatre, and the Nikola Tesla Museum. The city hosts FEST and other festivals and universities.

Belgrade is Serbia's economic hub, with a services sector, finance, and growing IT and startup activity. Transportation links include Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport and a central railway hub, supported by a tram, bus, and trolleybus network operated by GSP. Ongoing projects aim to expand riverfront development and urban renewal.