Konjic is located in the extreme north of mountainous Herzegovina, in the central part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in a valley on both sides of the Neretva River and around the mouth of the Neretva tributary Trešanica. Everyone travelling to Herzegovina from Bosnia must travel through Konjic, giving the city a significant strategic advantage and position.
HISTORY OF KONJIC
The early history of Konjic dates back to 4,000 years ago, as evidenced by the remains of various settlements found in this area along the Neretva River. Konjic was first mentioned by the Republic of Dubrovnik in 1382.
The archaeologist of the National Museum in Sarajevo, Karl Pach, found a large archaeological site “Konjicki Mitrej” (sanctuary of the god Mitra) on the hill Repovica in Konjic, in 1897. The foundations of a rectangular sanctuary covering 45 m2 were found.
The city shared its destiny with the rest of BiH and ended up under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, which left its mark in the form of Islamic architecture and the famous Stara Ćuprija, which bridges the banks of the Neretva River.
During the Austro-Hungarian occupation, Konjic took on the characteristics of European architecture that merged with the previously Ottoman spirit of the city.
During the First World War, which began in Sarajevo with the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, Konjic became part of Yugoslavia.
During the Cold War, President Josip Broz Tito chose Konjic as the city for his military command centre, known as Tito’s Bunker – today’s largest tourist attraction in the city.
Lukomir
The village of Lukomir is located within the municipality of Konjic and at an altitude of 1,495 m, is the highest populated place in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Based on the stećak tombstones in the village, which date from the 14th and 15th centuries, it is believed that the village was inhabited hundreds of years ago. Many describe Lukomir as a living ethno museum where the customs of nomadic tribes are practised and people live in a very traditional way of life.
Stara Ćuprija
Built in 1682, the Old Bridge in Konjic is considered the point where Herzegovina merges with Bosnia. Built of stone, with a total of six arches, it is one of the most beautiful bridges from the Ottoman period in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Along the Mostar’s Old Bridge, Trebinje’s Arslanagića Bridge, and the Mehmed-paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad, the Old Bridge in Konjic represents a significant cultural and historical monument of the country. It has been declared a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Tito’s bunker
Officially named the “Armijska Ratna Komanda” (ARK D-o), Tito’s bunker was built between 1953 and 1979. It served as an atomic shelter to protect the military command and 350 members of President Tito’s government in the event of a nuclear attack during the Cold War.
Excavated on the southern wing of Mount Bjelasnica, the bunker consists of extensive underground structures designed to supply its residents for up to six months. The complex includes residential areas, meeting rooms, dormitories, communication facilities and is supplied with energy.
The bunker was built in the strictest secrecy, and a total of 4.6 billion US dollars was invested, which is today’s value of 26 billion US dollars.
Canyoning by the river Rakitnica
26 kilometres long, the Rakitnica canyon separates the Bjelašnica and Visočica mountains and connects Bosnia and Herzegovina. Many adrenaline and canyoning lovers agree that this canyon is one of the best choices for such an adventure. One of the deepest canyons in Europe, the Rakitnica canyon is physically very demanding, and you will need a technical skillset. In addition to guaranteed adrenaline, the canyon is full of surprises and untouched nature, waterfalls, rapids, cascades, and crystal clear natural pools.
Boračko Lake
Located about 20 kilometres from Konjic, Boračko Lake is one of the most beautiful natural lakes in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Boračko Lake is a mountain, glacial lake that lies at the base of Mount Prenj, at an altitude of 397m.
On the west, the lake is surrounded by the steep and wooded heights of Montenegro, and on the east by Tranjine. The surroundings of the lake are decorated with dense coniferous and deciduous forests.
Boračko Lake, with its beauty and pure clear green colour, rarely leaves anyone indifferent, and it is visited by both locals and tourists from all around the world.
Boračko Lake is an ideal destination for families and holidays in a natural environment, and also has a camp where you can enjoy in your RV.
On the lake, there is also the option of renting wooden bungalows and apartments.
Do you want to experience Konjic firsthand, enjoy stunning nature, picturesque views of the Neretva river, and learn all about its rich history? Contact us.
We will create a journey tailored to your preferences.
