Vinča – The First European Metropolis of the Neolithic

Just about twenty kilometers from downtown Belgrade, along the road to Smederevo and nestled on the banks of the Danube River, lies one of the most fascinating sites for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and day-trippers alike — the archaeological site of Vinča – Belo Brdo. Located within the municipality of Grocka, this place is not only a priceless piece of cultural heritage, but also an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Vinča stands out not only for its scenic beauty and river views, but also for its immense archaeological importance.

It is considered one of the earliest urban settlements in Europe. Artifacts uncovered at the site point to the existence of a complex society that lived here as early as 4000 BCE. The houses from that era were arranged in orderly rows, with streets and passageways — a clear indication of a developed housing culture. The construction techniques were remarkably advanced for their time: dwellings featured wooden frames, and the walls were coated inside and out with a blend of mud and straw.

What’s even more astonishing is that some Vinča settlements were larger than the earliest cities in Mesopotamia and Egypt, leading many archaeologists to refer to Vinča as the first European city. Its spatial organization, the scale of the buildings, and evidence of everyday life all speak to a highly structured society, significantly ahead of its time.

The site takes its name from the light-colored loess terrace on which it lies — "Belo Brdo" meaning “White Hill” — although it is more commonly known in academic literature simply as "Vinča." Here, researchers have discovered the remains of houses and dugouts, tools, pottery, and even some of the earliest traces of writing in this part of Europe. Excavations began in the late 19th century and continue to this day, with ongoing analysis and interpretation.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of archaeologists and curators from the Belgrade City Museum, the site is now open to the public and is becoming increasingly accessible to tourists and researchers. Visitors can explore part of the site and learn more about the prehistoric people who once lived here, leaving behind a legacy of one of the most advanced civilizations of Neolithic Europe.