I meandered through the picturesque town of Sremski Karlovci, a jewel located in the Vojvodina region of Serbia. Known for its baroque architecture, this town seems to have captured time in its streets, allowing visitors a glimpse of history with every step. One of the most fascinating tidbits I learned was about the Karlovci Gymnasium, the oldest secondary school in Serbia, which dates back to the 18th century and still stands as a testament to the region’s dedication to education.

As the day unfolded, I indulged in the region’s renowned wines, sampling the local Bermet, a sweet wine with a recipe shrouded in mystery. The town’s significance in mediating the Treaty of Karlowitz in 1699, which ended hostilities between the Ottoman Empire and the Holy League, was palpable as I walked through the Peace Chapel. With each corner turned, Sremski Karlovci revealed another layer of its rich tapestry, seamlessly weaving together its historical significance with the effervescence of contemporary life.