Serbian Villages Full of Luxurious Villas, but Almost Without People

In the remote villages surrounding Požarevac, Serbia, a striking image emerges: grand villas, once symbols of prosperity and family legacy, now stand largely empty. These homes, built by expatriates who spent decades working abroad, have become emblematic of both success and longing. The contrast between their opulence and the near absence of inhabitants has left locals with a sense of melancholy. The phenomenon is particularly evident in the village of Beranje, which appears almost deserted along the road leading through it. Most vehicles passing by are merely transiting, and few people can be spotted nearby. Occasionally, one might catch sight of someone near the local stadium or market, but the vast, luxurious villas, often adorned with high walls, expansive terraces, and large glass facades, remain unoccupied for much of the year. This scene is repeated across many villages in the region, where the architectural splendor of these homes stands in stark contrast to the quiet solitude they inhabit. These villas, known locally as “zdomcev” homes, were constructed by individuals who spent most of their lives working overseas, often in Germany. Many of them returned to their native villages after years of hard work, using their savings to build lavish residences that reflect their achievements. While some critics argue that such investments could have been better used elsewhere, the owners seem undeterred. In fact, there is a competitive element among them, with each striving to create ever more impressive structures. Some of these houses are multi-story, with wide verandas extending in all directions. Others feature towering gates and are equipped with video surveillance systems. From the outside, the scale of these buildings is already impressive, but it becomes even more apparent from the side view. They stretch far beyond what would typically be considered a family home, resembling large complexes suitable for events and celebrations. Inside, however, the picture is different. Heavy curtains and closed windows suggest that the interiors remain untouched for long periods. The residents, mostly elderly men, return only occasionally, typically for holidays such as Christmas or New Year. For the rest of the year, these grand estates lie dormant, their potential unrealized. This pattern dates back several decades. In the 1960s and 1970s, many Yugoslavs, including Serbs, began migrating to West Germany in search of employment opportunities. After World War II, Western Germany experienced rapid economic growth, and following the construction of the Berlin Wall, there was a shortage of qualified workers. As a result, Germany signed agreements with Yugoslavia, including one in 1968, allowing for the recruitment of foreign laborers. Over time, this migration became a deeply ingrained part of life for many families. Those who worked abroad sent money back home, eventually enabling them to construct these villas. Today, while some see these homes as unnecessary extravagance, others view them as a tribute to perseverance and a desire to leave behind something meaningful for future generations. Whether they represent triumph or tragedy, these villas continue to stand as silent witnesses to a complex history of departure, return, and reflection.