Kupinovo is a village (Serbian: село) located in the municipality of Sremska Mitrovica, within the autonomous province of Vojvodina, Serbia. Situated in the Srem (Syrmia) region, it lies on the southern edge of the Fruška Gora mountain range and near the banks of the Sava River. The settlement is notable for its proximity to the Obedska bara nature reserve, a protected wetland of international significance.
Geography
Kupinovo occupies an area of approximately 6.28 km² (2.42 sq mi) at an elevation of about 78 meters (256 ft) above sea level. The village is positioned at the coordinates 44°53′N 20°01′E. The surrounding landscape consists of lowland plains, agricultural fields, and forested areas, with the Obedska bara wetland located to the south.
Population
According to the 2011 census of Serbia, Kupinovo had a population of 1,366 inhabitants. The majority of residents are ethnic Serbs, with minorities including Croats, Slovaks, and other groups typical of the Vojvodina region. The demographic trend has shown a gradual decline typical of many rural settlements in Serbia.
History
The name "Kupinovo" is derived from the South Slavic root kup (meaning “heap” or “pile”), possibly referring to a historical earthwork or settlement mound in the area. Historical records indicate that the village existed during the Ottoman period and later became part of the Habsburg Military Frontier. Following the Treaty of Karlowitz (1699), the area was incorporated into the Habsburg Monarchy, and later, after World War I, it became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia). During the 20th century, Kupinovo developed as an agricultural community.
Economy and Infrastructure
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with emphasis on crop cultivation (corn, wheat, and various vegetables) and livestock farming. Small-scale tourism has emerged due to the nearby Obedska bara, attracting birdwatchers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. Infrastructure includes a primary school, a cultural center, a health post, and local road connections to Sremska Mitrovica and surrounding settlements.
Obedska bara Nature Reserve
The Obedska bara wetland, located adjacent to Kupinovo, is a Ramsar-designated site of international importance. Covering roughly 4,500 ha, the reserve hosts a rich biodiversity, including numerous species of waterfowl, fish, and endemic flora. The reserve’s management and conservation efforts involve both Serbian authorities and international environmental organizations. Kupinovo serves as a gateway for visitors accessing the reserve, providing lodging, guide services, and educational facilities.
Cultural and Social Aspects
Kupinovo maintains traditional Serbian cultural practices, including religious celebrations centered around the local Orthodox church, folk music, and dance events. The village celebrates annual “Kupinovo Days,” featuring local cuisine, handicrafts, and sporting activities.
Transportation
The village is accessible by regional road R-227, linking it with the main thoroughfare between Sremska Mitrovica and the city of Belgrade. Public transport includes bus services operated by the Vojvođanska autobuska kompanija (VAK). The nearest railway station is in Sremska Mitrovica, approximately 12 km north of the village.
References
- Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia, 2011 Census of Population, Households and Dwellings.
- “Obedska bara – Ramsar Site.” Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, Secretariat.
- Đorđević, M. (2004). History of the Srem Region. Novi Sad: Vojvodina Publishing.
Note: Information presented is based on publicly available encyclopedic sources and official statistical data.