Podgorica

File:Moscow Bridge and Millenium Bridge.jpg

Podgorica

General Information
Name	Podgorica
Native Name	Подгорица
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	42°26 N°19
Map
Population
Total	185,937
Density	per km²
Area
Total	108 km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

Podgorica (/pɔdˈɡɔritsa/

Montenegrin

Подгорица) is the capital and largest city of Montenegro. It is located in the central part of the country, at the confluence of the Ribnica and Morača rivers. Podgorica is the administrative, economic, and cultural center of Montenegro.

History

Podgorica has a rich history that dates back to the Illyrian and Roman periods. The area was known as Birziminium during Roman times. In the Middle Ages, it was known as Ribnica before adopting the name Podgorica in the 14th century. The city was part of the Ottoman Empire for several centuries, which has left a significant cultural and architectural influence.

During the Second World War, Podgorica was heavily bombed and suffered extensive damage. After the war, it became part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and was renamed Titograd in honor of Josip Broz Tito. The name was reverted to Podgorica in 1992 following the breakup of Yugoslavia.

Geography

Podgorica is situated in the central part of Montenegro, in the fertile Zeta Plain. The city is surrounded by mountains and is close to the Adriatic Sea. The Morača River flows through the city, providing a scenic backdrop and contributing to the city's mild climate.

Climate

Podgorica has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city experiences high temperatures in the summer, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing.

Economy

As the capital city, Podgorica is the economic hub of Montenegro. The city's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from the service sector, industry, and agriculture. Key industries include aluminum processing, textiles, and food production. The city is also a center for banking and finance in Montenegro.

Culture

Podgorica is a cultural center with numerous theaters, museums, and galleries. The Montenegrin National Theatre is a prominent cultural institution, hosting a variety of performances throughout the year. The city also hosts several festivals, including the Podgorica Film Festival and the International Book Fair.

Education

Podgorica is home to the University of Montenegro, the largest and most prestigious university in the country. The university offers a wide range of programs and is a center for research and higher education in Montenegro.

Transportation

Podgorica is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Podgorica Airport is the main international gateway to Montenegro, offering flights to various European destinations. The city is also a major railway hub, with connections to Belgrade and other regional cities.

Also see

• Montenegro
• Morača River
• University of Montenegro
• Montenegrin National Theatre