Ep 3. Serbia

Serbia, a landlocked country in the Balkans, is the focus of the third episode of Europe from Above's fourth season. Host James Crawford takes viewers on a breathtaking aerial journey over Serbia's diverse landscapes and historic landmarks.

The episode begins with an overview of Belgrade, Serbia's capital city, showcasing its mix of modern highrises and historic buildings. The drones fly over the Belgrade Fortress, a prominent landmark that has stood since the 15th century. The fortress boasts magnificent views of the Sava and Danube Rivers, which converge at a sharp angle.

The show then heads southeast, to the endless rolling hills of Stara Planina, the Balkans' third highest mountain range. The range is home to Serbia's oldest nature park, the Brusnica, which houses a variety of wildlife, including rare Balkan lynx. The drones capture the beautiful scenery of the mountain range as they fly over its peaks and valleys.

Next, the viewers get to see Serbia's rich cultural heritage as the episode highlights its monasteries. Monasteries in Serbia date back to the Byzantine era, and Crawford takes the audience to see the country's oldest and best-preserved monastery, the Studenica Monastery. The UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 12th century and features stunning medieval architecture and frescoes.

From there, the show takes a surprise turn to explore the subterranean world of Serbia's caves. The viewers are taken to the Risovaca Cave, located in western Serbia, which is famous for its prehistoric remains and art. The drones fly over and through the cave to capture the natural beauty and historical significance of this remarkable site.

Then, Europe from Above jets north to the northern city of Novi Sad, which is the second-largest city in the country. Viewers get to see the Novi Sad Fair, the second-largest fair in Europe, which attracts exhibitors and visitors from all over the world. The drones capture the city's beauty, from the historic Petrovaradin Fortress to the marketplaces.

Finally, the journey ends in eastern Serbia, where the show highlights the natural beauty of the Djerdap National Park. The park lies along the Danube River and is famous for the Djerdap Dam, which is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Serbia. With its breathtaking views and rich history, Djerdap National Park is one of the country's most beloved destinations.

In conclusion, Europe from Above's fourth season's third episode, Serbia, offers a unique vista of Serbia's rich cultural and historical heritage, its beautiful mountain ranges and caves, and the sublimity of its cities and landscapes. The aerial shots make this documentary a must-watch for aerial photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike.