Serbia Belgrade History: A Look at the Rich and Varied Past
The history of Serbia Belgrade is one of a rich and varied past. From its beginnings as a medieval fortress on the banks of the Danube to its current status as a vibrant and modern capital, Belgrade has seen many changes over the centuries. The city has played a pivotal role in the history of the Balkans and has been the site of numerous wars and conflicts. It has also been a major center of trade and culture, and has been home to some of the most influential people in the region.
The earliest known settlement in the area dates back to the Neolithic period, around 6000 BC. During the Iron Age, the area was inhabited by the Illyrians, who were eventually conquered by the Celts. The Celts were then replaced by the Romans, who established a settlement called Singidunum, which is now known as Belgrade. The city was an important military and trading center for the Romans, and it was here that Constantine the Great was proclaimed Roman Emperor in 324 AD.
During the Middle Ages, Belgrade was ruled by the Byzantines, Bulgarians, and Serbs. In the late 14th century, it was conquered by the Ottomans and became the capital of their province of Rumelia. The city was then taken by the Austrians in 1688, and it became a part of the Habsburg Empire.
In the 19th century, Belgrade was the capital of the Principality of Serbia, which gained its independence in 1878. This period saw the city become a major cultural center, with the opening of the National Museum, the National Library, and the University of Belgrade. The city was also the site of the first Yugoslavian Parliament in 1882.
In World War I, Belgrade was the site of a major battle between the Austro-Hungarian and Serbian forces. The city was then occupied by the Germans during World War II, and was liberated by the Yugoslav Partisans in 1944. After the war, Belgrade became the capital of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, and it remained so until the country's dissolution in 1992.
Today, Belgrade is a modern and vibrant city, with a rich cultural heritage and a population of over 1.7 million people. It is a major center for business, politics, and culture, and it is home to some of the most important historical sites in the Balkans. From its medieval fortress to its modern skyline, Belgrade has a long and fascinating history that is worth exploring.