SCROLLABOUT BIHAĆ
Bihać is located in the northwestern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina and serves as the seat of the Una-Sana Canton. Bihać is known for its natural beauty that surrounds it, as well as for the abundance of cultural and historical monuments that tell the story of this city. According to the 2013 census, the city had a population of 56,261, while the populated area had 39,690 residents.
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HISTORY OF BIHAĆ
The first historical document mentioning Bihać is the charter of Hungarian King Bela IV dated February 26, 1260. Two years later, Bihać was declared a royal free city and placed under the direct authority of the Hungarian throne, with all the accompanying rights and privileges, which greatly contributed to its development independent of the political power of local lords.
In 1530, the Austrian committee secured troops for the defense of seven key strongholds in Croatia, one of which included Bihać and Ripač. The Turks occupied Bihać in 1592 after a ten-day siege, and from then on, Bihać became the site of the most important fortress in Bosnia until the 19th century. The Ottoman rule in Bihać de facto ended after the Congress of Berlin.
During World War II, Bihać was incorporated into Pavelić’s Independent State of Croatia after being captured by Axis forces.
The city served as the capital of the short-lived territory, the Republic of Bihać, for two months at the end of 1942 and the beginning of 1943, until it was retaken by German forces. Bihać returned to Bosnian territory on March 28, 1945.
What To See And Do In BIHAĆ
Captain’s Tower
Take a stroll through the lower part of Bihać, along the left bank of the Una River, and you will come across the famous Captain’s Tower. It is located in the lower part of the city, on the left bank of the Una River.
The exact date of its construction is unknown, but based on available historical maps of the city and its surroundings, it is believed to have been built before 1697. According to local legend, the Hungarian King Bela IV stayed in the tower during the Tatar invasion.
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Ostrožac
The Ostrožac Fortress represents a true historical gem, located in the municipality of Cazin, 14 kilometers from Bihać. The castle dates back to the 16th century when the Ottomans established the Ottoman province of Bosnia.
Proudly rising at an altitude of 206 meters, Ostrožac testifies to the rich history of this town. Its intriguing architecture and combination of various styles leave a lasting impression on every visitor.
Una River
The Una River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it is the fourth largest river by size. Serving as a natural border between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Una flows a total length of 212 kilometers. The beauty of the Una River is, for many, indescribable, and it is a favorite spot for swimming and enjoying adrenaline-filled adventures. Vivid, with surreal colors and clarity, the Una creates numerous waterfalls, rapids, and cascades.
You can enjoy this river in many ways, whether it’s simply soaking in its beauty through sight, swimming in its clear waters, or exploring its rapids and surrounding nature through rafting.
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Outdoor Activities in BIHAĆ
National Park Una
National Park Una is one of the four national parks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in the far west of the country on the border with Croatia. The rivers Una, Unac, and Krka are the greatest treasures and heritage of the park, offering visitors various ways to explore their beauty. Many come to admire their beech forests, waterfalls, and cascades, as well as to discover the rich cultural and historical heritage of this region. Others opt for adventure tourism in the form of rafting, kayaking, canoeing, canyon walking, hiking, and mountain biking.
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Japod Islands
Located a few kilometers from Bihać, on five river islets, are the Japod Islands – a natural wonder in the shape of a heart. Visitors can spend their time in a multitude of ways – whether simply enjoying the beauty of nature surrounding the Una or engaging in the adventure of rafting on the Štrbački Buk. You will also have the opportunity to taste authentic traditional dishes of this region and find evening tranquility in one of the wooden bungalows or treehouses – perfect for a complete experience of the nature around you.
NIGHTLIFE IN BIHAĆ
Bihać offers a multitude of bars, cafes, and clubs that will more than satisfy anyone looking for good company and a pleasant atmosphere. You can enjoy live performances, rock music, as well as great DJ sets.
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WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT IN BIHAĆ
On the menus of restaurants in Bihać, you can find dishes from both local traditional and international cuisines. Mediterranean, Eastern European, Turkish – these are just some of the cuisines whose specialties you will have the chance to try. All grilled dishes, fish specialties, pizza, as well as fast food are popular. In addition to delicious food, many restaurants boast prime locations along the banks of the Una River – the perfect recipe for a complete experience. Traditional local recipes, a pleasant atmosphere, and friendly staff will make your culinary experience in Bihać more than enjoyable.
WHERE TO STAY IN BIHAĆ
Bihać offers a multitude of accommodation options. Bihać provides you with numerous hotels, motels, hostels, as well as private lodging. Those who wish to stay close to nature can choose between bungalows and romantic tree houses in NP Una and the Japod Islands. Various categories of accommodation offer options for every budget – from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly lodgings, Bihać has something for everyone.
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