Nisava, River in southeastern Serbia and western Bulgaria.
The Nisava is a river in southeastern Europe that flows from the Stara Planina mountains through Serbia for about 218 kilometers before joining the South Morava near the city of Niš. The waterway passes through varied terrain including gorges, plains, and numerous tributaries.
The river formed part of the ancient Roman road Via Militaris, which connected Europe with Asia and shaped trade patterns over centuries. This historic route allowed movement of people and goods through the river valley.
The Sićevo Gorge holds medieval monasteries such as Sveta Petka and the Church of the Holy Prophet Elias, which remain places of worship today. These religious buildings shape how locals and visitors experience the river's landscape.
The river can be explored from several access points, particularly near the city of Niš and along the Sićevo Gorge. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for visiting, with moderate water levels and comfortable weather.
Excavations in the Balanica Cave near the river uncovered Neanderthal remains including a jaw fragment dating back between 130,000 and 250,000 years ago. These archaeological discoveries show that the area has been inhabited since prehistoric times.
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