Novi Sad Becomes the First Ramsar Wetland City in the Balkans

Novi Sad has written another chapter of history – it became the first city in the Balkans to receive the prestigious international title of Ramsar Wetland City, awarded by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance. This recognition proves that the city has managed to balance urban development with the preservation of natural treasures, showing the world that nature and a modern city can thrive in perfect harmony.

What Does the Ramsar Wetland City Title Mean?

The Ramsar Convention, established in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar, aims to protect and sustainably use wetlands across the globe. The “Wetland City” status is given to cities that excel in protecting wetlands, rivers, marshes, and other aquatic ecosystems – while also engaging their communities in conservation. With this recognition, Novi Sad now stands alongside global cities such as Seoul, Vienna, and Valletta.

Kovilj–Petrovaradin Marsh – The Heart of the Danube Wetlands

The primary reason Novi Sad earned this title is the Kovilj–Petrovaradin Marsh, one of the most important protected areas in Serbia. Stretching along the Danube, it encompasses marshes, backwaters, ponds, and forests of willow and poplar.

Koviljsko-petrovaradinski rit, photo: Mirvladimir, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This unique landscape is home to more than 200 bird species, including the white-tailed eagle, black stork, and various types of ducks and herons. It is also crucial for fish populations, amphibians, and mammals such as beavers, which have successfully returned to the area.

Begečka Jama – A Natural Jewel by the Danube

Another gem that contributed to this honor is Begečka Jama, a wetland near the village of Begeč. Once a former arm of the Danube, today it serves as a peaceful haven for migratory birds and a place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy untouched nature. Begečka Jama is proof that even small wetlands can have enormous importance for biodiversity.

Begečka Jama, photo: Silbaski, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In addition to these key sites, the recognition also highlights numerous smaller wetlands, river branches, and marshes along the Danube – from Futog and Kać to Kovilj and Petrovaradin. These aquatic landscapes form a true natural network, protecting the city from floods while providing shelter for rare plant and animal species.

City and Nature – An Inspiring Coexistence

Through this achievement, Novi Sad has shown that there is no need to choose between urbanization and nature – both can exist together. As the city grows as an economic and cultural hub, its wetlands remain an untouched oasis of peace. Preserving wetlands also improves the quality of life: cleaner air, natural climate regulation, and green spaces for recreation make Novi Sad a truly unique place to live.

Pride and Responsibility for the Future

Receiving the Ramsar Wetland City title is not only an honor but also a responsibility. Novi Sad must continue to protect and nurture its wetlands – a task that belongs not only to city authorities and experts but also to every citizen. The harmony between people and nature is precisely what makes Novi Sad an inspiring destination for both locals and visitors.

Novi Sad has proven that a city can be both a vibrant urban center and a sanctuary of nature – setting an example for the future of the Balkans.