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Culture

Since the ancient Roman times, this area was interesting for conquistadors and different civilizations that left many cultural-historic monuments and traces of rich heritage of their daily life. The numerous archeological findings, fortresses, and monuments are the proof of the variety of civilizations that lived in this area, especially the Ottomans and the Hungarians that left the biggest mark. Nevertheless, the tradition of Srpska people together with religion has been shaping the culture of the region making it unique in all its segments. To understand the mentality of the local people means to get familiar with their culture, customs, and monuments.

Moment in Civilization

The beauty of Srpska lies in its extraordinary mixture of past civilizations, which influenced present appearance and cultural framework.

Each civilization which took part in Srpska’s history presents one piece in the unique Srpska’s “identity - puzzle”. If you are wondering about ancient Romans and their lifestyle then visit the fortress in Doboj, and find out how knights and princesses lived once upon a time.

A Quick blink and we are back in medieval ages, colored by distinctive Balkans’ culture of Balkans which includes “stećak” special monumental medieval tombstone that lies scattered across Srpska. Explore the city “Sokol” near Šipovo, from 1336 and feel the spirit of fights of the famous king Tvrtko I Kotromanić.

If you are the a fan of the Ottoman culture, then “Višegradska ćuprija” is the best choice for a visit. Back in the 1570s Grand Vizier Mehmed Paša Sokolović built this marvelous bridge, as a present to his homeland, a true masterpiece of that period.

Monasteries

Visit one of the Orthodox monasteries located in the Republic of Srpska and travel back through time in the medieval period of Serbian Christianity.

Experience plenty of monasteries on the north of Srpska like Moštanica Monastery from 16th century near mountain Kozara or Krupa na Vrbasu Monastery located 25km from Banja Luka from the 13th century, or one of the few “female monasteries” in the whole Srpska called Gomionica Monastery from the 16th century.

The region around Bijeljina is also famous for few monasteries like Tavna Monastery named after a small river in its surrounding, and Papraća Monastery raised by the Serbian king Dragutin and his sons. Herzegovina’s monasteries with their original history and architecture style are one of the most visited in whole Srpska.

Tvrdoš Monastery, Duži Monastery or Hercegovačka Gračanica Monastery are influenced not only by a mixture of past civilizations typical for this area, but also by climate conditions, which caused most quality wines made in vineyards around these holy structures.

Ethno Villages

If you are wondering about past times and lifestyle of Srpska forebears, then visit some of our ethno villages is a must.

Enjoy in a unique environment fulfilled with various content and feel the tradition like it was once upon a time. Visit one of the most famous ethno villages in the whole region called “Ethno Village Stanišići“ located near Bijeljina.

Feel the spirit of the past and briefly discover the modesty and beauty of Srpska grandparents by horse riding, traditional food in restaurants or cab ride through a wonderful landscape of Semberija. Much more on: www.etno-selo.com

Ethno village Kotromanićevo is located between Doboj and Derventa, inspired by medieval Bosnian kings and lifestyle. It’s specific by untouched nature and ancient architecture. If you find interesting knight games, then this place is great for you, because it offers truly knight tournaments with traditional dinner and music. Much more on: www.kotromanicevo.com

Experience the hospitality of locals in Ethno Village Ljubačke doline. This extraordinary complex located near Banja Luka, besides magnificent nature, offers 30 authentic objects from the 19th century and marvelous view on the canyon of river Vrbas “Tijesno”. Much more on: etno-muzej.com

Religion

Experience the diversity and visit various religious objects in Srpska. Visit the Republic of Srpska and walk across the bridge that connects east and west in one point.

Meet the Judaism visiting the house of peace “Bejt Šalom“ in Doboj, or Islam in the masterpiece of oriental architecture in Balkans „Ferhat Pasha Mosque“ from 1579 in Banja Luka.

Enjoy in Serbian Orthodox Christianity exploring the Church of Saint Peter and Paul in Gornji Palačkovci, which is unique because it's totally built of oak, or Church of Dormition of the Holy Virgin in Čajniče, where you can see one of the most beautiful and oldest icon painting from the early 14th century.

Travel over the beautiful Mariastern Abbey, a Trappist abbey in Banja Luka, talk with Trappist monks and meet the Catholic Christianity from the first hand.

This Trappist Abbey is well-known by the production of famous cheese brand Trappist based on the secret recipe.

Srpska Heritage

Meet Srpska through its heritage based on unique Serbian culture, which is fulfilled with distinctive tradition and customs.

Feel the hospitality of locals by participating in “Krsna slava”, which almost every Orthodox household celebrates, regarding its patron saint. The tradition of “slava” is carried on through generations, from father to son, and this is the occasion when family members and friends gather to celebrate this great day with music, dance, and food.

Enjoy in the most magic and unique atmosphere during the Christmas, starting from the Christmas Eve dinner that is fast, and continuing to the Christmas morning, where Serbians keep to the tradition that the first man who enters the house on the morning is given wheat and red wine, which he take previously crossing himself. “Česnica” and “rakija” are an inevitable part of special Christmas lunch.

Experience the “Babine”, a postnatal period beginning immediately after the birth of a child and extending for 40 days, while the woman in that period is called “babinjara”. It is tradition to bring when coming to “Babine” roasted chicken, “pita”, “uštipci”, scrambled eggs, meat, young cheese, “kajmak” and cakes, so maternal woman takes some of every meal, after which the guest continue with the feast.

Republic of srpska
Tourist organisation

Bana Milosavljevića 8
78000 Banja Luka
Republic of Srpska
Bosnia and Hercegovina

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