Belgrade

Once one of Europe's most turbulent cities, Belgrade has grown bold and determined, proudly welcoming visitors to explore this unique European capital. The history of Belgrade, originally known as Singidunum, goes back 6,000 years, and is filled with tales of conflict and devastation. Belgrade, however, always bounces back and is currently enjoying a cultural and creative revival.

Belgrade ( Beogradin Serbian) is situated where the Sava and Danube rivers meet on the Balkan Peninsula of southeastern Europe. It is not a beautiful city, but rather one layered with the relics of many generations and invaders. Old-world Europe with a hint of the orient, different cultural influences and architectural styles jostle for attention in Belgrade, combining to imbue the modern city with its own unique charm.

The best place to begin understanding the city is at the site of its original ancient settlement, the hill called Kalemegdan, now a fascinating park-like complex of historic buildings overlooking the Old Town (Stari Grad). The Military Museum situated here traces the history of the city's bloody past, from its first conflict with the Roman legions in the 1st century BC to its most recent conflagration, when NATO forces bombed the city for 78 straight days in 1999.

Those who aren't fascinated by history and prefer to enjoy Belgrade as it is today will find a myriad of leisure and pleasure opportunities. From the techno wilderness of its famed nightclubs to the restaurants and street performances of bohemian Skadarlija Street, visitors to Belgrade will feel welcomed by the hospitable and justly proud inhabitants of this indomitable city.