About Stolac
Stolac is a small town located in the southeastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the valley of the Bregava River, with a population of approximately 15,000 inhabitants.
The town is known for its unique cultural heritage that encompasses various historical periods, including Illyrian, Roman, medieval, and Ottoman. Stolac is also renowned for its natural beauty, including the Bregava River and the surrounding mountains.The town is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with archaeological findings that indicate the presence of people since prehistoric times.
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History of the Town
Stolac has a rich history that spans millennia. The first signs of settlement date back to prehistory, and the town was an important center during the Illyrian and Roman periods. In the Middle Ages, Stolac was part of the Bosnian kingdom, and later it became a significant administrative and military center during Ottoman rule. The town is known for its stećci, medieval tombstones that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage. During Austro-Hungarian rule, Stolac experienced modernization and the construction of many new buildings and infrastructure.
What To See And Do In STOLAC
Old Town Vidoški
The Old Town Vidoški is a medieval fortress located on a hill above Stoc. The fortress offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the ramparts,
towers, and other historical remnants.
The fortress dates back to the 15th century and served as a military stronghold for protection against attacks. The Ottomans further fortified the fortress in the 16th century, making it one of the most important military outposts in the region.
The fortress complex consists of the main tower, ramparts, and several smaller towers. The interior space of the fortress includes various residential and military facilities.
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 18:00.
Admission Fee: 3 KM.
Tips: Visit the fortress in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the view of the Bregava valley. Wearing comfortable shoes is recommended due to the steep and rocky paths.
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Necropolis of Radimlja
Radimlja is the most famous necropolis of stećaks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located not far from Stoc. Stećaks are medieval tombstones adorned with various reliefs and inscriptions.
The necropolis dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries and is considered one of the most important cultural and historical monuments in the region. Stećaks are unique to the area of Bosnia and Herzegovina and provide insight
into the life and customs of medieval inhabitants.
Stećaks are made of stone and decorated with various motifs, including crosses, human figures, hunting scenes, and geometric shapes.
Opening hours: 08:00 – 20:00.
Entrance fee: 5 KM.
Tips: Visit Radimlja during spring or autumn when the temperatures are pleasant for exploration. Bring a camera to capture the unique reliefs on the stećaks.
Begovina
Begovina is a complex of historical houses that belonged to the noble Rizvanbegović family. These houses represent an example of traditional Ottoman architecture and provide insight into the lives of wealthy families from that period.
The Begovina complex dates back to the 17th century and served as the residence of the Rizvanbegović family, which played a significant role in the political and social life of Stolac during the Ottoman
period.
The houses are built of stone, featuring wooden balconies and inner courtyards.
The interiors of the houses are decorated with authentic furniture and decorative elements from the Ottoman period.
Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Ticket price: 4 KM.
Tips: Visit Begovina to learn more about the lives of wealthy families in Stolac and enjoy the beautiful examples of Ottoman architecture.
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Stolac Mosque
The Stolac Mosque is a beautiful Ottoman mosque located in the city center. The mosque is known for its architectural elegance and spiritual atmosphere.
Built in the 16th century, the mosque served as the main religious site for Muslims in Stolac. Over the years, the mosque has been renovated several times, but it has maintained its original appearance.
The mosque is constructed of stone, featuring a stunning dome and minaret. The interior of the mosque is simple yet elegant, with decorative elements typical of Ottoman
architecture.
Opening hours: 08:00 – 20:00.
Entrance: Free, but donations are welcome.
Tips: Visit the mosque during prayer times to experience the authentic atmosphere and peace that this place offers. Be sure to respect local customs and behave appropriately
within the religious site.
Outdoor Activities in STOLAC
Hiking and Mountaineering
Stolac and its surroundings offer numerous trails for hiking and mountaineering, including paths that lead along the Bregava River and through the nearby hilly terrains.
This area is perfect for nature lovers who want to explore picturesque landscapes and enjoy fresh air.
During spring and autumn, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and nature exploration. In summer, the Bregava River provides opportunities for refreshing swims and fishing.
Bring comfortable footwear and plenty of water. Plan your route in advance and check the weather conditions before you go. If you are new to hiking, consider hiring
a local guide who can show you the best trails and provide additional information about the local flora and fauna. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes.
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Rafting on the Bregava River
The Bregava River offers excellent conditions for rafting, especially during spring when the water level rises. This activity is perfect for adventurers and water sports enthusiasts.
Rafting tours typically include navigating through rapids and calmer sections of the river, providing an exciting experience and an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty.
Check safety conditions and hire a licensed guide or join an organized tour. Bring appropriate clothing and rafting equipment.
WHAT AND WHERE TO EAT IN STOC
Stoc is known for its rich gastronomic offer that includes traditional Bosnian dishes such as cevapi, Bosnian pot, pies, and various roasted meats. In restaurants in Stoc, you can also find fresh fish from the Bregava River, as well as various homemade desserts. Local restaurants use fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
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Nightlife in Stolac
The town offers a relaxed atmosphere with several bars and cafes where you can enjoy local music, drinks, and socializing. The nightlife in Stolac is laid-back but rich in cultural events, including music performances, literary evenings, and art exhibitions. During
the summer, many cafes and bars have outdoor terraces where you can enjoy warm evenings and socialize with locals.
Where to Stay in STOCUS
Stolac offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different needs and budgets. In the hotels of Stolac, you can expect comfortable lodging with modern amenities and
services, ideally located near the city’s main attractions. Apartments and vacation homes provide more privacy and flexibility, often coming with fully equipped kitchens and
spacious living rooms, making them an excellent choice for families or groups of friends.
For those who want to stay closer to nature, Stolac also offers eco-friendly accommodation options such as mountain cabins and cottages, which provide a unique experience in unspoiled nature. These
lodgings often utilize sustainable practices, including renewable energy sources and local materials, making them perfect for environmentally conscious travelers.
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Travel Tips and Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit Stolac due to pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes. In winter, Stolac is also popular because of its mild climate. During summer, the city offers comfortable
temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities.
If you plan to visit during spring or autumn, bring layered clothing as temperatures can vary throughout the day. In summer, be prepared for warm weather and the possibility of high temperatures.
Transport
Stolac is well connected by road, and local buses run regularly. The city is easily accessible by car, and parking is available at most tourist locations.
Additionally, there is an option to rent a car for greater comfort and flexibility in exploring the surrounding areas.
If you are using public transportation, check the bus schedule in advance to avoid waiting. For those traveling by car, it is recommended to use navigation systems
for easier navigation around the city and its surroundings.
Local Events and Festivals
Stolac Cultural Summer
The Stolac Cultural Summer is the most famous cultural event in Stolac, featuring various cultural programs, from concerts and theater performances to exhibitions and literary evenings.
During the Stolac Cultural Summer, visitors can attend different events, enjoy local music, artistic works, and cultural presentations.
The event attracts artists and visitors from across the region.
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