Serbia 'A land of contrast with cities that rock'

The country between east and west with a diverse population, different cultures and religions and a varied climate offers an unbelievable spectrum of scenic attractions. Approximately 50,000 kilometres of rivers and streams flow through Serbia with practically all the rivers flowing into the Danube which emerges here as Europe’s longest navigable waterway. The landscape features not only mountains, rivers and lakes, but in Serbia one can find desert areas and even one of Europe’s last jungles. The unspoilt scenery and the warm hospitality make a visit here an unforgettable experience.

The Romans left countless traces in Serbia. A little known fact is that 17 Roman emperors came originally from this region and that one died here.

In Roman times the Limes, the defence wall against the Barbarians in the north, ran through what is today Serbia and numerous fortresses and cities were established on its periphery. A visit to the excavation sites at these historical and impressive locations is a very special highlight for everyone interested in history and culture!

The numerous thermal springs with their medicinal healing effects were also famous during Roman times. The spas are not only ideal for medicinal purposes, but are also perfect for wellness and sporting activities.

The numerous monasteries and churches, mainly built between the 10th and 17th centuries, as well as the traditional villages are also witnesses to the historical and archaeological aspects of Serbia. With its five Roman monasteries at Ži?a, Gradac, Djurdjevi, Stupovi and Sopo?ani as well as Studenica (UNESCO heritage site), Serbia is part of the historical Trans Romanica trail.

Studenica is regarded as the cradle of the Serb kingdom. The monastery compound was of great importance since its establishment at the end of the 12th century and soon became the wealthiest of all in the region. It encompasses about a dozen churches and palaces. All the Serb Trans Romanica stations feature an abundance of valuable mosaics which depict the orthodox rituals and services still held in all the churches.

Mother Nature has blessed Serbia with a plethora of mountains, valleys and ravines as well as a wide array of flora and fauna and offers endless opportunities for sports. Tennis, hiking, mountain climbing, swimming or skiing are just a few examples. Nature lovers can observe approximately 400 wild animal and 200 bird species, many of which cannot be found elsewhere in Europe. Serbia has several hunting grounds and 35 fishing centres offer, not just a guaranteed good catch, but also good entertainment and enjoyable company.

Culinary fans are in for a treat in Serbia. Delicious grilled specialities and various roasting methods are a delight to the taste buds. Fresh cheeses, smoked ham or caviar are popular entrees. Typical foods include white beans, bean soup, sauerkraut or sweet cabbage with mutton. Pear, apricot or quince liquors are drunk as appetisers while meals are rounded off with excellent wines from the sunny vineyards.

All routes lead to Serbia, whether by car, plane, train, bus or ship. The major roads connect Serbia with northern and southern Europe. The international E75 motorway stretches from Scandinavia to Bulgaria and Greece. All regions of the country can be reached by bus or train from Belgrade Airport.

The Danube flows through northern Serbia and is an ideal starting point for a trip to the inner countryside. A cruise is a very special experience, passing for example the city of Novi Sad with the famous Petrovaradin fortress, the capital Belgrade and, last, but not least, the Iron Gate gorge.

Serbia also offers a special highlight for cycling tourists: the 674 kilometre long, perfectly laid out bicycle path through Serbia along the Danube which, when finally completed, will connect the ten Danube countries from Germany to the river delta. More information on the Danube bicycle path – a further gtz project for promoting tourism, in particular for small and medium-sized enterprises, can be found under: www.donau-info.org.