Background

Catacombs Underground Church: A Subterranean Sanctuary

Explore a 15th-century underground church in Jajce, Bosnia, featuring unique carvings and a rich history as a potential noble burial site.

4.2

The Catacombs Underground Church in Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a historic and mystical site carved into rock over 600 years ago. Commissioned by Duke Hrvoje Vukčić Hrvatinić around 1400 as a potential family burial site, it features Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. The site is adorned with unfinished reliefs and symbols of the Bosnian Church, offering a unique glimpse into the region's medieval history.

A brief summary to Catacombs Underground Church

  • 87Q9+R92, Svetog Luke, Jajce, 70101, BA

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the church's history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the underground paths can be uneven.
  • Check the opening hours ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Jajce, the Catacombs Underground Church is accessible by foot. Head towards Svetog Luke, a well-known area within the city. The church is located near the Church of Saint Mary and the Bear Tower (Medvjed Kula). The walk is approximately 2 kilometers and should take around 25 minutes. Look for signs indicating the entrance to the Catacombs.

  • Public Transport

    From the Jajce bus station, you can reach the Catacombs Underground Church by bus or taxi. Bus number 2 towards the Church of St. Luke will drop you off near the entrance to Ulica Svetog Luke. From there, walk down Ulica Svetog Luke for about 300 meters until you see the sign for the Catacombs. A single bus fare costs approximately 1.50 BAM. Alternatively, a taxi ride from the bus station to the church costs around 5-10 BAM.

  • Car

    If driving, navigate towards Jajce and then to Svetog Luke. The address is 87Q9+R92, Svetog Luke, Jajce 70101. Limited parking is available near the church. Parking fees may apply. Arrive early, especially during peak hours, to secure a spot.

Unlock the Best of Catacombs Underground Church

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Catacombs Underground Church

The Catacombs Underground Church, also known as the Jajce crypt, is a unique historical monument in Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Carved into solid rock at the end of the 14th and beginning of the 15th century, the catacombs were commissioned by Duke Hrvoje Vukčić Hrvatinić, the founder of Jajce, as a potential final resting place for his family. However, no one was ever buried here. The underground complex features a narthex, a baptistery with baptismal fonts, a nave, and a presbytery with an altar space. The architecture blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. Inside, visitors can see unfinished reliefs of Hrvoje, his coat of arms, and a carved female figure. A double cross, crescent, and sun are carved in the main room, symbolizing death, the afterlife, and eternal sleep. Throughout history, the catacombs have served various purposes. During the Ottoman era, a legend tells of a dervish who was confined within for 40 days in the hopes of him becoming a holy man. During the Austro-Hungarian period, the consistent cool temperature was used to store goods. In 1943, Josip Broz Tito, leader of the Partisans, used the catacombs as a hiding place and signed important documents here. The site was proclaimed a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2003. Visiting the Catacombs offers a journey back in time, providing insights into medieval artistry, religious practices, and the diverse history of Jajce.

Popular Experiences near Catacombs Underground Church

Popular Hotels near Catacombs Underground Church

Select Currency