Prominent Landmarks of Herzegovina

While there is no official border distinguishing the Bosnian region in the north, from the Herzegovina portion in the south, it is generally accepted that the borders of this southern region where I live, are Croatia to the southwest, Montenegro to the east, Mountain Maglić to the northeast, and Mountain Ivan to the north. The name Herzegovina means "duke's land", referring to the medieval duchy of Stjepan Kosaca. Herceg is derived from the German title Herzog.

This region is known for natural and historic beauty, and It would take an awful lot of time to name and describe them all. But for the sake of an overview I will try to list the most prominent features of this region. Some of these can be further explored on this blog, others are new additions. For a more extensive overview, head over to the Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Guide.

Prominent Landmarks of Herzegovina

1. Medieval tombstones Stećci in Rotimlja

Stećak (plural: Stećci) is the name for monumental medieval tombstones that lie scattered across Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the border parts of Croatia, Montenegro and Serbia, although almost exclusively following the borders of the medieval Bosnian Kingdom. In Rotimlja, near the town Stolac, you can find a lot of them in one spot. Lots of visitors flock to this place throughout the year and it's definitely a sight the region is known for.

2. Hajducka vrata in the Cvrsnica Mountain

The so called Hajducka vrata (Rebel's Door) is located on the east side of the Cvrsnica Mountain. Located at 2000m/6500ft, the stone formation is a natural wonder and the product of wind erosion, that brings in hikers from all around the country. It's not easy getting here, and most visitors even make a weekend trip out of it.

3. Jablanica Lake

The Jablanica Lake (Jablanicko Jezero) is a very important resource. The lake borders many of its settlements and is used for several purposes. The lake is used to generate electricity while it also serves as a top summer destination for fishing, swimming, water sports and other activities. Notable settlements include Ostrozac which hosts the start of the annual rowing marathon and Donje Paprasko, the location of a public beach and the host of the marathon finish line.

4. Hutovo Blato

Hutovo Blato is a nature reserve and bird reserve located in the southern parts of Herzegovina. It is primarily composed of marshlands that were created by the underground aquifer system of the Krupa River. The reserve is on the list of BirdLife International's Important Bird Areas. It is the largest reserve of its kind in the region, in terms of both size and diversity.

5. The Old Bridge in Mostar

 Often talked about here, but surely a very prominent landmark of Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Old Bridge in Mostar. A visit to south Bosnia and Herzegovina would not be complete without a stop in the biggest city of this region. One of the best places to visit in Herzegovina is for sure the Old Town of Mostar, with its beautiful Old Bridge dating back to 1557.

6. Vjetrenica Cave

Vjetrenica (which means "wind cave") is the largest and most important cave in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and one of the most important caves in the Dinaric Alps mountain range, which is famous worldwide for its speleological riches. It is located in the Popovo field in Ravno, West Herzegovina. Vjetrenica is the richest cave in the world in terms of subterranean biodiversity: among more than two hundred different species are registered in it. Guided tours can be booked on the official website. The cave is open to visitors from the beginning of April to the end of October.

7. Boracko Lake

Another lake makes the list. Boracko lake is a popular camping and swimming destination in the summer, but can be equally fascinating to visit in spring and autumn. It's located about 20km from the city of Konjic, in the Prenj mountain. One of the more picturesque landmarks of Herzegovina.

8. Kravice Waterfalls

Kravice waterfalls are located on the Trebizat River. It is 10 km (6 mi) south of the city of Ljubuski and 40 km (25 mi) south of Mostar. Its height is about 25 m (80 ft). The Kravice waterfalls area also has a little cafe, a rope swing, a picnic area, and a place to camp. The best time of year for visiting is during the springtime when the fall is at its fullest and the arid landscape turns a bright green. Even though it's a landmark the area always feels fresh and new, when exploring. Summer brings in lots of crowds.

9. Podvelezje

Podvelezje, while also being a small village in the mountains near the city of Mostar is also a region located under the mountain Velez. The name podvelezje, means "under the mountain Velez". Sunsets here are gorgeous and you get a full view of the city below. You can drive further into the mountains for isolated views and rugged landscapes.

10. Pocitelj

Počitelj presents one of few urban ensembles in Bosnia and Herzegovina preserved in their integrity to the present time developed through the several phases of the history, beginning with the medieval period. Its important strategic role during the 13th to 17th century gave the power of its inhabitant to build up one of the most important, and best preserved ensembles within the city walls in this region. You can find it easily alongside route M-17 on your way south from Mostar.

11. Blagaj and the Fortress of King Herceg Stjepan

Blagaj and the remains of the Fortress of King Stjepan have been discussed in detail here on this blog, but I wanted to touch upon them here as well, since they are very important, both as tourist destinations as well as historic landmarks.

12. Nature park Blidinje

Traces of Illyrian graves and Roman roads indicate that Blidinje has been settled for at least 2,500 years. The large necropolis at Dugo Polje indicates that the waves of Slavs that came in the 7th century also made this area their home. The park is set in long sweeping valleys. In the winter time you can also venture out to the ski center here or make a road trip through the mountains.

I hope you enjoyed seeing these landmarks of Herzegovina. As I said there are many more to put here, but the post has to end eventually. Hopefully this will be inspirational to the future traveler.

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