ABOUT BIJELJINA
Bijeljina is a city located in the northeastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the heart of the fertile Semberija plain. Bijeljina has a population of 107,715, and the municipality is situated on large underground reserves of geothermal water with a temperature of at least 75 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest in the Republic of Srpska.
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HISTORY OF BIJELJINA
Numerous rich archaeological and other studies provide reliable evidence of the settlement of these areas since prehistoric times, around 5,000 years before the Common Era. Bijeljina is first mentioned in a Latin document from the year 1466. The Middle Ages were characterized by struggles for dominance in Semberija by rulers of neighboring states, as well as minor feudal lords. Weakened by conflicts and feudal discord, Bijeljina and Semberija shared the fate of most surrounding countries and fell into the hands of the Ottoman Empire in 1530. After a century of relatively stable period under Turkish rule, a series of wars erupted in which Bijeljina suffered significant destruction. A large part of the population temporarily or permanently migrated, and we can only speak of relative stabilization after the Austro-Hungarian occupation in 1787. During the Austro-Hungarian occupation, Bijeljina underwent a renaissance, the city modernized, and thanks to its significant strategic position, it developed rapidly.
What To See And Do In BIJELJINA
Ethno Village Stanišići
Located just three kilometers from Bijeljina, in the heart of Semberija, the Stanišić family has built the largest ethno village in the Balkans. Stanišići features around twenty authentic wooden houses, embodying Boris Stanišić’s vision of the lifestyle and culture from the late 19th and 20th centuries. In the center of the village, you can find two lakes, watermills, a dairy, a blacksmith’s shop, a stone well, and a granary. Special attention is deserved by the Monastery of Saint Father Nicholas, which houses relics of Emperor Uroš and Saint Father Nicholas. In the restaurants of the Ethno Village, you will have the opportunity to taste some of the best traditional Bosnian specialties and dishes from Bosnian cuisine, all served by waiters dressed in ancient costumes for a complete experience.
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Banja Dvorovi
Banja Dvorovi is located just six kilometers away from Bijeljina and was established after the discovery of thermal water during oil exploration in Semberija in 1957. Banja Dvorovi features therapeutic thermomineral water with a sodium-calcium-bicarbonate composition, making it highly suitable for treating various chronic conditions such as all forms of rheumatic diseases, diabetes, neuroses, post-rheumatic conditions, and many others. At Banja Dvorovi, you can relax and enjoy all kinds of massages, acupuncture, and inhalations. The spa also has facilities for basketball, handball, beach volleyball, a fitness center, tennis, as well as several pools and saunas.
Outdoor Activities in BIJELJINA
Mount Majevica
For all trekking tourism enthusiasts, the gentle slopes of Mount Majevica will be an ideal destination. On Mount Majevica, hiking trips are regularly organized, during which you will have the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Skakavac waterfall, the Hollow Rocks, and Novak’s Cave.
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NIGHTLIFE AND ENTERTAINMENT
In Bijeljina, there are numerous pubs, pizzerias, and cafes where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and live music. In the famous clubs and discotheques of Bijeljina, having a good time is guaranteed, and in the late hours, large crowds don’t miss out on the popular grill houses and kebab spots.
WHAT AND WHERE TO EAT IN BIJELJINA
Tasty food, a pleasant atmosphere, and professional staff are the characteristics that briefly describe the hospitality in Bijeljina. On the menus of restaurants in Bijeljina, you can find specialties from both local and international cuisine. From grill houses and cevapi shops to steakhouses and the best Italian pizza and pasta. In Bijeljina, everyone will find something to their taste.
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WHERE TO STAY IN BIJELJINA
Bijeljina offers a rich variety of accommodation options. Bijeljina has several hotels, motels, apartments, as well as private accommodations. If you prefer more privacy during your visit, you also have the option to stay in mountain lodges and bungalows.