Belgrade, known locally as Beograd, is the capital and largest city of Serbia. It is situated at the confluence of the River Sava and Danube in the northern part of the country, making it an important regional transport hub as well as a center of trade, culture, education, and politics. With a population of over 1.3 million, Belgrade is the third largest city in Southeast Europe, after Istanbul and Athens. The city’s name translates to 'white city', though the etymology is disputed, with various theories attributing the name to the city's fortress, its geographic position, or historical events linked to it. The Serbian language, a South Slavic language, is the official language in Belgrade, and it uses both the Cyrillic and Latin scripts. The city's ethnic composition is predominantly Serbian, with minority groups including Roma, Montenegrins, Croats, Macedonians, and others. Belgrade has a moderate continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, occasionally experiencing heavy snowfall. The city's architecture is a mix of historical styles, with Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences visible in older buildings, along with brutalist structures from Yugoslavia's socialist era, and modern developments. Kalemegdan Fortress stands as a testament to the city’s strategic importance through the centuries, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times since the Roman period. The fortress offers views over the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers and contains parks, museums, and galleries. Skadarlija, the old bohemian quarter, retains a nostalgic charm, with cobblestone streets and restaurants that offer traditional Serbian cuisine and live music. The historic neighborhood of Dorćol, and the avant-garde design district of Savamala showcase the city’s mix of old and new. Belgrade has made significant cultural contributions, particularly in the fields of music, film, and literature. It is home to numerous theaters, including the National Theatre, museums such as the Nikola Tesla Museum, and hosts various music and film festivals throughout the year, such as the Belgrade Music Festival (BEMUS) and the Belgrade International Film Festival (FEST). The city’s sporting scene is vibrant, with a strong tradition in basketball, football, and water sports. It is home to the Red Star Belgrade and Partizan football clubs, which have robust followings and storied rivalries. The Ada Ciganlija island on the Sava river is a recreational zone popular for its beach and sports facilities. Demographically, Belgrade experienced significant population growth during the 20th century, and while the pace has slowed, the city continues to grow, driven by internal migration from other parts of Serbia and international arrivals. The population is predominantly of Orthodox Christian faith, with the Church of Saint Sava being one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Belgrade’s educational system includes several universities, such as the University of Belgrade, and a host of scientific and research institutions. Throughout its history, Belgrade has faced numerous challenges, including destruction during various wars and conflicts. Despite this, it has continually rebuilt and evolved, maintaining a tough, resilient spirit. Today’s Belgrade still bears the marks of its turbulent past, yet it tirelessly works towards a contemporary European metropolis status while preserving its unique character. The city is known for its spirited nightlife, with floating river clubs (splavovi) and bars that stay open until dawn, reflecting the indomitable spirit of its residents—the Belgraders.