Bela Palanka

in Bela Palanka

Bela Palanka is a town and municipality in southeastern Serbia, located in the Pirot District, in the valley of the Nišava River, on the route between Niš and Dimitrovgrad. It is surrounded by mountainous areas, providing a beautiful natural setting and favorable conditions for agriculture and livestock breeding. The first written records of the settlement date back to the Roman period, and throughout history, Bela Palanka has been an important administrative, commercial, and cultural center of the region. According to the latest census, the Bela Palanka municipality has around 16,000 inhabitants. The majority are Serbs, while minority communities are present in smaller numbers. The population is distributed between the central town and several smaller villages within the municipality. Demographic trends show a slight decline in rural areas, while the town center maintains a more stable population. Bela Palanka is known for preserving local traditions, cultural heritage, and customs. Agriculture, livestock breeding, and small businesses form the basis of the local economy, while tourism is gradually developing thanks to the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and historical monuments. Today, Bela Palanka also offers modern facilities for living and recreation, making it an attractive destination for both visitors and local residents.