Bosnia’s Best-Kept Secrets: 5 Cultural Sites to Explore
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a place that blends history with culture, stunning landscapes and is a must visit destination for the travelers. Of course cities like Sarajevo and Mostar are known, yet the country is full of hidden gems through which one gets a closer look in an authentic way at its cultural heritage. A cultural allure that lives on in Medieval fortresses, mystical monasteries, and many other lesser known sites, history lovers, adventure seekers and travellers have just another excuse to explore this Central European gem of a country.
If going on a trip, you cannot forget to check visa prerequisites in advance. Getting a Bosnia visa from Dubai or a Bosnia visa for UAE residents is a simple process for the travelers from the UAE and allows them to travel without any hassle. Bosnia’s best kept secrets can be this country’s historic towns, ancient villages or stunning riverscapes, and all guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
Here are the Bosnia’s Best-Kept Secrets: 5 Cultural Sites to Explore
1. Jajce – The Royal Fortress and Waterfall City
Jajce is a beautiful historical town nestled between mountains and rivers, which was the medieval capital of Bosnia. Jajce’s most notable sight is its 17-meter high waterfall in the centre of the city, where the Pliva River meets the Vrbas. This town offers unforgettable experience for history lovers with the Jajce Fortress, medieval catacombs and traditional watermills on the Pliva Lakes.
2. Blagaj – The Mystical Dervish Monastery
Blagaj is just a short drive from Mostar, where to dwell is Tekija (Dervish Monastery), an elaborate creation dug into a cliffside and located alongside the emerald–green Buna River. Bosnia’s best kept secret is the combination of stunning natural scenery and spiritual importance. Get a cup of traditional Bosnian coffee at the river and just fall into a peaceful atmosphere.
3. Počitelj – The Stone Village
It is possible to step back in time and wander the cobbled streets of Počitelj, a well preserved medieval and Ottoman era village. Počitelj is situated along the Neretva River and features old stone houses, impressive fortress and Hajji Alija Mosque. It is a dream for photographers and history lovers alike, this charming village.
4. Visegrad – The Iconic Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge
The magnificent 16th century Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge is made famous by Nobel laureate Ivo Andrić’s novel The Bridge on the Drina and it is located in Visegrad. It is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place to visit for those with an eye for cultural landmarks and river views.
5. Lukomir – The Last Traditional Bosnian Village
To have the most authentic and untouched experience, go to Lukomir, Bosnia’s highest and most remote village. Lukomir is located at 1,495 meters above sea level on Bjelašnica Mountain, and is home to semi nomadic shepherds who have managed to preserve the traditional Bosnian ways of life. This village has the feeling like a trip back in time because of the stone houses and the breathtaking mountain scenery.
Conclusion:
Stepping into it is like exploring the world of history and tradition, and beautiful scenery that is hidden cultural gems of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Each destination provides a different glimpse as to the countries rich past whether you are admiring the royal fortress of Jajce or floating through the dusty serenity of Blagaj’s Dervish Monastery or finally wandering through the timeless stone village of Počitelj. Bosnia is a great destination for travellers who are seeking something off the beaten path and these lesser known sites are just one of those places.
Before you do so, you should have your travel documents in place. If you are from the UAE, obtaining a Bosnia visa from Dubai or going through the process to obtain a Bosnia visa for UAE residents will make your trip more pleasant and less stressful. Now that you have your visa all set, the only thing you need to do now is pack your bags to begin uncovering everything secret about Bosnia.
