While Croatia is known for its beautiful old cities, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains a hidden gem waiting to be explored. In particular, the small village of Počitelj offers a unique travel experience that is not to be missed. From Ottoman architecture to breathtaking views, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has something for everyone - after we visit the Kravica Watersfalls we go ahead to a small and forgotten town....
Table of contents
- Getting off the Beaten Path
- A Brief History of Počitelj
- Exploring Počitelj Today
- Climbing Sahat Kula for Breathtaking Views
- Experiencing Local Life with Katarina
- Leaving Počitelj Behind: What I’ll Miss the Most
- Conclusion: Leaving Počitelj Behind: What I’ll Miss the Most
Getting off the Beaten Path
When most people think of traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina, they likely think of visiting the capital city of Sarajevo or the famous bridge in Mostar. However, if you're looking for a more unique and authentic travel experience, look no further than Počitelj. This small village is located on a hill overlooking the river Neretva and is often considered a hidden gem.
Unlike many popular tourist destinations in Croatia, Počitelj offers visitors a chance to get away from the crowds and truly immerse themselves in local life. The village has less than 1,000 inhabitants and is not as well-known among tourists as other nearby cities. As such, visitors can expect to find peace and quiet while exploring this charming little town.
A Brief History of Počitelj
Počitelj was founded in the 15th century by Bosnian King Tvrtko I as an important trading center due to its strategic location on a hill overlooking the Neretva River valley. The Ottoman Empire later occupied it after their advance into the region during that same century.
Katarina sells thing from her garden. She's the last christian in town
The steep cliffs on the left bank of Neretva were developed over time with several stages where steps were cut into stone for easier access; important public buildings like mosques, kuttabs (schools), imarette (public kitchens), madrasas (Islamic schools), hamams (Turkish baths), inns and bell towers were also built during this period.
The view from the castle to Neretva river
Despite being fought over by various powers throughout history - including Venetians taking it from Ottomans before losing it again - Pocitelj remained under Ottoman rule until Austria-Hungary took control at end of 19th century protectorate era.
After hundreds of years fighting the castle is in ruins
During World War II followed by civil war three decades ago when Serbian troops attacked before army self-proclaimed Republic Herceg-Bosna captured predominantly Muslim inhabitants deporting them and destroying mosque, hamam and numerous Ottoman houses from 18th century. It was not until 2002 that the reconstruction of historic buildings was completed.
Above the landscape
Today, Počitelj is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where visitors can explore the village's narrow streets, admire old mosques and hamams, climb to the top of the Sahat Kula (Clock Tower) for a breathtaking view of surrounding countryside.
It's a small town with a lot of history
Exploring Počitelj Today
Today, visitors can explore the village's narrow streets and admire the old mosques and hamams that have survived centuries of conflict. Walking through the town feels like stepping back in time. The buildings are made of stone with red-tiled roofs, and many are adorned with intricate carvings.
The Mosque is from the Ottoman era
One of the most impressive structures in Počitelj is Sahat Kula, or Clock Tower. Built in 1664, it stands at 16 meters tall and offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside from its top. Visitors can climb to the top for a small fee to get an unparalleled view of this charming little town.
Whats was made from wood is vanished
Another must-see attraction is Gavrakanpetanovića House - one of few houses that survived during times when Pocitelj was destroyed by war. This house dates back to 17th century and has been converted into a museum where visitors can learn more about life in Pocitelj throughout history.
The Mosque is unique
Visitors should also take some time to wander around the farmers' market where they will find fresh produce grown by local farmers as well as traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving.
Climbing Sahat Kula for Breathtaking Views
The highlight of any visit to Počitelj is climbing up Sahat Kula (Clock Tower) for breathtaking views over Neretva River valley below. It's not an easy climb but definitely worth it once you reach top! The tower has been restored several times over years but still retains much original character including wooden staircase leading up inside tower itself.
On the lft the stairs to the castler, on the rigth: Katarinas garden
Once at top, visitors will be rewarded with panoramic views stretching out towards mountains on horizon; they'll see lush green fields dotted with tiny villages nestled between rolling hillsides covered in wildflowers during springtime months while autumn colors transform landscape into shades orange-red-brown hues before winter snows arrive covering everything white.
A sign of long forgotten times
From up here, visitors can also see Šišman Ibrahim-Paša Mosque - a stunning example of Ottoman architecture that was built in 1562/63 and has three domes which is quite rare. The mosque was destroyed during the war but has since been restored to its former glory.
Nearly 360°
Overall, Počitelj is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique travel experience. From exploring the narrow streets and admiring old mosques and hamams to climbing up Sahat Kula for breathtaking views over Neretva River valley below, there's something for everyone here. So next time you're planning a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, make sure to add Počitelj to your itinerary!
Experiencing Local Life with Katarina
One of the best ways to experience local life in Počitelj is by visiting Katarina's stall. The 76-year-old woman offers cloth, knitted goods, homemade wine and honey from her own garden. She's the only Christian in the village and has lived there all her life. Her stall is located near the entrance of the town and is easy to spot.
Shooting hole
Katarina loves talking to visitors about her life in Počitelj and sharing stories about how things have changed over time. She's a wealth of knowledge when it comes to local history and can tell you all about what it was like growing up in this small village.
Visitors should also take some time to explore the nearby countryside, which is full of natural beauty. There are several hiking trails that wind through rolling hillsides covered in wildflowers during springtime months while autumn colors transform landscape into shades orange-red-brown hues before winter snows arrive covering everything white.
Leaving Počitelj Behind: What I'll Miss the Most
As I prepare to leave Počitelj behind, there are a few things that I know I'll miss most about this charming little town. First and foremost, I'll miss its unique blend of Ottoman architecture mixed with medieval influences from western Europe - it truly feels like stepping back in time here.
Nearby are some lost places from socialist times
I'll also miss climbing up Sahat Kula for breathtaking views over Neretva River valley below - it was definitely one of highlights my trip! And last but not least, experiencing local life with Katarina at her stall was an unforgettable experience that gave me insight into what everyday life is like for people living here.
The cross they're bear
If you're planning a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina anytime soon, make sure to add Počitelj to your itinerary - you won't regret it!
Conclusion: Leaving Počitelj Behind: What I'll Miss the Most
In conclusion, Počitelj is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique travel experience. From exploring narrow streets and admiring old mosques and hamams to climbing up Sahat Kula for breathtaking views over Neretva River valley below, there's something for everyone here. Visitors can also experience local life with Katarina at her stall or take some time to explore nearby countryside.
So small seems the Mosque
So if you're planning a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina anytime soon, make sure to add Počitelj to your itinerary! You won't regret it - this charming little town truly has something special to offer.
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A few more pictures:
Lost, but worth a visit
Only a few travellers made a break in this town
The clock tower
Wide view
Another view to the castle
