Art, poetry and hidden gems
After completing her master’s degree in 2004 in Novi Sad, Serbia, Ljiljana worked for a Serbian-German startup involving extensive travel in Germany and beyond. Four years later, she pursued her PhD at Ghent University in Belgium, focusing on mathematical models for medical image utility assessment. Around 2012, she joined imec.
Ljiljana’s path of cultural adaptation and Belgium’s warm embrace
Ljiljana’s childhood was mostly spent alongside the Danube River, where she developed a love for Serbian treats like Riblja corba, a delicious fish soup made with various river fishes, Rezanci sa makom, sweet poppyseed noodles, and Gibanica, a mouthwatering layered pastry with egg and cheese. These early experiences played a big role in shaping her appreciation for tradition and delicious flavors.
Her professional strength lies in generating ideas, drafting proposals, and managing projects in sensor data fusion imaging. Ljiljana’s international business travels honed her ability to navigate diverse cultural landscapes, which proved invaluable in her move to Belgium. At imec, she collaborates with professionals from around the world, enriching her multicultural work experience.
Exploring serbian art and poetry
Serbia’s central location has led to a unique fusion of eastern and western cultural influences. Ljiljana highlights the rich historical backdrop that has woven a unique cultural fabric in serbian life. With its medieval religious frescoes and icons, serbian art is known for its vibrancy and intricate details. They also showcase a synthesis of byzantine and slavic artistic traditions.
In the realm of culture after Serbian art the influence of Jovan Jovanovic Zmaj in literature stands iconic. Jovan Jovanovic Zmaj wasn’t just a poet; he was also a well-respected doctor in 19th-century Serbia. People love his poetry for its beautiful language and deep emotions, often mixed with a strong love for nature and romantic feelings. He wrote about love, patriotism, and what’s happening in society, and his words left a lasting mark on Serbian literature and culture.
Zmaj had a deep connection to the natural world and the human experience, and this connection still inspires artists and poets today. They explore similar themes in their work, making Serbia’s cultural scene even richer and more vibrant.
Food tip
Try the homemade Ajvar, a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread from the bustling open-air markets of Belgrade.
Discovering Serbia’s hidden gems
Ljiljana shares her top picks across the country as Serbia offers a treasure trove of history and vibrant culture. The Petrovaradin Fortress, a historic stronghold next to Novi Sad, sits high up on the northern slopes of the Fruška Gora Mountain range, overlooking the Danube River. It has ancient walls, intriguing tunnels, and a unique reversed Clock Tower where the small hand indicates minutes, and the big hand shows hours. Skadarlija, Ljiljana’s childhood home a charismatic bohemian district in Belgrade, exudes old-world charm with its cobblestone lanes, art galleries, and traditional Serbian bars called kafanas.
Sremski Karlovci is a picturesque town nestled among vineyards, showcasing stunning baroque architecture and renowned wine cellars. Meanwhile, Sremska Kamenica combines historical significance with natural beauty. It houses the Museum and Memorial Collection of Jovan Jovanovic Zmaj, and it’s also where the headquarters of the Fruška Gora National Park is situated.
For those seeking adventure and exploration, the Ovcarsko-Kablarska Klisura, often called the Serbian Mount Athos, is a captivating destination sitting in the Southwest of Belgarde. This scenic gorge is home to tranquil monasteries, some dating back to the 14th and 15th century. It’s the perfect spot for those who love hiking and experiencing the exceptional beauty of nature.
These distinctive locations offer a multifaceted view of Serbia’s captivating allure, whether through its rich history, creative expression, or the embrace of nature.
