Serbia, country located in the heart of the Balkans in southeastern Europe, known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural heritage. It traces its origins to the early medieval Serbian principalities that emerged in the 7th century and became part of a powerful Serbian kingdom and later an empire in the 14th century. The name “Serbia” comes from the medieval Latin *Serbia*, derived from the Slavic people known as the Serbs. Over the centuries, Serbia was shaped by Byzantine, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian influences. It regained independence in the 19th century after centuries under Ottoman rule and was later a founding republic of Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, Serbia became an independent state in 2006. The capital is Belgrade.