It’s the month of November, which means we’re fresh off of Halloween and are slowly diving into Christmas. But before that, we take a pause to commemorate our loved ones, as with the rest of the world. It’s a celebration that’s rich in tradition and takes many different forms, and it’s no different in Serbia where the air is crisp and filled with celebration at this time of year.

A landlocked country bordered by North Macedonia to the south, Hungary to the north, Croatia and Bosnia to the west, and Bulgaria to the southeast, Serbia’s central hub of tourism is the capital city of Belgrade. Considered the largest and the most populated metropolis, the term Belgrade is of Serbian origin translated into English language as the “white city.”

Top landmarks include Belgrade University, a public institute founded by Dositej Obradović; the National Library which houses millions of manuscripts, books, and important documents of Serbia’s affluent history; and the Church of Saint Sava whose gilded cross looms at over 269 feet from the ground can be easily seen from all over the city.

Belgrade is also famous for its old town or the Stari Grad. Considered the oldest section in the country, Stari Grad transports everyone back in time with its well-preserved structures and striking sceneries. One of the most visited locations is the timeworn residential palace of Princess Ljubica, Prince Miloš wife. Now turned into a museum, the palace exhibits many documents, photographs, and written letters that once belonged to the Obrenović Family. Another famous area is the Skadarlija District, famous around the world for its Bohemian Quarter lined with traditional restaurants serving authentic Serbian cuisine, cafés, art galleries, boutique shops, inns, and several souvenir and antique stores selling handmade products. The district is the only car-free zone in the city, encouraging visitors to have a more memorable walk on its cobblestoned pavements.

While All Saint’s Day is only celebrated for a day, it is a day of commemorating not only our departed relatives, but also of the bygone era that hones the country we see and enjoy today. I wish you all a Serb-tacular day in Serbia!