What is the Capital of Serbia? Belgrade

Capital City of Serbia: Belgrade

City Overview

Belgrade, the capital and largest city of Serbia, is one of the oldest cities in Europe with a rich history that spans over 2,000 years. Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, it has been a key strategic and cultural center throughout the ages. Today, Belgrade is a modern, vibrant city that balances its ancient heritage with a youthful, dynamic atmosphere. It is known for its diverse cultural life, including music, theater, and art, as well as its energetic nightlife and historical sites. See Prozipcodes for other major cities in Serbia.

Belgrade has a population of around 1.7 million people, making it the largest city in Serbia and one of the most populous in Southeast Europe. The city is the economic, cultural, and political center of Serbia, and its influence extends far beyond its borders. Over the centuries, Belgrade has been the capital of various states, including the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and later, Socialist Yugoslavia. It is the birthplace of numerous famous historical figures and continues to play a crucial role in the region today.

• Area: 359.96 km²
• Population: Approximately 1.7 million (2023 estimate)
• Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC +1; Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC +2 (during daylight saving time)
• Highest Mountain: Mount Tara (1,747 meters) – located in the western part of Serbia, Mount Tara is the highest peak in the Tara National Park.
• Longest River: Danube River – the second-longest river in Europe, flowing through Belgrade and serving as an important trade route.

Belgrade’s topography is characterized by its rivers, hills, and the surrounding plain. The city is divided into different municipalities, each with its own unique character, from the historical core of Stari Grad to the modern, commercial district of New Belgrade. Over time, Belgrade has transformed into a cosmopolitan hub while retaining elements of its rich heritage, from Ottoman-era buildings to Austro-Hungarian architecture.

Major Landmarks in Belgrade

Belgrade is home to many historic and cultural landmarks, reflecting the city’s long and tumultuous history. Some of the major landmarks include:

1. Kalemegdan Fortress
   The Kalemegdan Fortress, located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, is the most famous landmark in Belgrade. This ancient fortress has been the site of countless battles and sieges over the centuries. Today, it is a park, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and rivers. The fortress also houses several museums, galleries, and the Military Museum, making it a focal point for history lovers.
2. St. Sava Temple (Hram Svetog Save)
   St. Sava Temple, the largest Orthodox Christian church in the Balkans, is one of Belgrade’s most iconic buildings. Completed in 1989, this grand church sits atop the site where the remains of Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church, were burned by the Ottomans in the 16th century. The temple’s impressive architecture and intricate mosaics make it a must-see for visitors.
3. Republic Square (Trg Republike)
   The Republic Square is the central hub of Belgrade and one of its busiest areas. Surrounded by important buildings like the National Museum and National Theatre, it is a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. The Equestrian Statue of Prince Mihailo stands proudly in the center of the square, commemorating Serbia’s prince who helped lead the country toward independence in the 19th century.
4. Skadarlija District
   Known as Belgrade’s Bohemian Quarter, Skadarlija is a charming cobbled street lined with restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. Dating back to the 19th century, this area is famous for its traditional Serbian cuisine, live music, and vibrant atmosphere. Skadarlija offers a nostalgic glimpse of Belgrade’s past, filled with the sounds of tambura music and the aroma of grilled meat.
5. Ada Ciganlija
   Ada Ciganlija, often referred to as “Belgrade’s Sea,” is a large river island on the Sava River that has been transformed into a popular recreational area. It features beaches, sports fields, walking and biking paths, and plenty of cafes and restaurants. During the summer months, Ada Ciganlija becomes a central hub for Belgrade residents looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
6. Museum of Yugoslavia
   The Museum of Yugoslavia is dedicated to the history of the former Yugoslav state and its leader Josip Broz Tito. The museum showcases memorabilia from Tito’s era and the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in the political history of the region.
7. Nikola Tesla Museum
   The Nikola Tesla Museum celebrates the life and work of the world-renowned inventor, who was born in the nearby village of Smiljan. The museum houses a large collection of Tesla’s inventions, personal items, and papers, providing a glimpse into the mind of one of history’s greatest innovators.

Climate Overview

Belgrade has a continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The city experiences four distinct seasons, with the transition from one season to the next being quite noticeable. Summers are typically hot and humid, while winters can be cold, with occasional snowfall.

Monthly Climate Data for Belgrade

Month	Average Temperature (°C)	Precipitation (mm)	Sunny Days
January	1°C	38 mm	6
February	3°C	34 mm	8
March	7°C	41 mm	11
April	12°C	45 mm	15
May	17°C	56 mm	18
June	22°C	61 mm	19
July	25°C	58 mm	21
August	24°C	51 mm	22
September	18°C	44 mm	18
October	11°C	46 mm	12
November	5°C	45 mm	8
December	2°C	42 mm	7

Other Cities as Capital in History

Throughout its history, Belgrade has remained the capital of Serbia since it became part of the Kingdom of Serbia in the 19th century. However, it has served as the capital of several different political entities:

• Kingdom of Yugoslavia (1918–1941): Belgrade was the capital of the newly-formed Kingdom of Yugoslavia after World War I, following the unification of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes.
• Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (1945–1992): Following World War II, Belgrade became the capital of Socialist Yugoslavia under the leadership of Josip Broz Tito.
• Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (1992–2003): After the breakup of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Belgrade remained the capital of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.
• State Union of Serbia and Montenegro (2003–2006): Belgrade remained the capital of the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro until Montenegro declared independence in 2006.

Country Facts

• Population: Approximately 7 million (2023 estimate)
• Area: 77,474 km²
• Largest City: Belgrade
• Currency: Serbian Dinar (RSD)
• Official Language: Serbian
• ISO Country Codes: RS (Alpha-2), SRB (Alpha-3)
• Government: Republic with a presidential system
• Capital: Belgrade

Serbia is a landlocked country located in Southeast Europe, in the central and western part of the Balkans. It shares borders with Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and dynamic political history, Serbia is a country that continues to play an important role in the Balkans and European affairs.