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Catacombs Underground Church: A Subterranean Sanctuary in Jajce

Explore the mysterious Catacombs Underground Church in Jajce, a historic subterranean sanctuary carved in stone with unique medieval carvings.

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The Catacombs Underground Church in Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a historic and mysterious site carved into solid rock around 1400 by Duke Hrvoje Vukčić Hrvatinić. Intended as his family's burial crypt, this underground chapel features unique carvings and a serene atmosphere, offering a glimpse into medieval artistry and spirituality.

A brief summary to Catacombs Underground Church

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

Local tips

  • The catacombs are dimly lit and can be cool, so bring a light jacket or sweater for your visit.
  • Combine your visit with other historical sites in Jajce, such as the Jajce Fortress and the Pliva Waterfall, for a comprehensive experience.
  • Check the opening hours before you go, as they vary between summer and winter.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Catacombs are located within the historic city walls of Jajce, near the Bear Tower (Medvjed Kula). From the town center, walk uphill towards the Jajce Fortress. The Catacombs are situated on the southwestern side of the walled city, below the plateau between the Bear Tower and the Church of Saint Mary. The entrance is marked by a stone portico. Walking from the Jajce bus station takes approximately 14 minutes. There is no fee to walk around the city, but there is an entrance fee for the Catacombs.

  • Public Transport

    Jajce has a bus station with connections to major cities like Sarajevo and Banja Luka. From the bus station, it is a 14-minute walk to the Catacombs. Follow the road towards the town center and then uphill towards the Jajce Fortress. The Catacombs are located within the city walls, near the Bear Tower. Bus fares within Jajce are generally inexpensive, costing around 1-2 KM.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Jajce, especially near the bus station and the town center. A taxi ride from the bus station to the Catacombs should cost approximately 5-7 KM. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride is short, and the taxi will drop you off near the entrance to the Jajce Fortress, from where it is a short walk to the Catacombs.

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Discover more about Catacombs Underground Church

The Catacombs Underground Church, also known as the Jajce crypt, is a fascinating historical monument located in Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Carved into the living rock, this underground church was commissioned around 1400 by Hrvoje Vukčić Hrvatinić, the founder of Jajce, as a family burial site. Although intended as his final resting place, Hrvoje was never buried here. The architecture of the catacombs resembles a church, featuring a narthex, baptistery with baptismal font, a nave, and a presbytery with an altar area. The underground complex is located in the southwestern part of the walled city. Inside, visitors can admire unique motifs, including a boldly sculpted double cross, crescent moon, and sun, reflecting the symbols of the Bosnian Church. Throughout history, the catacombs have served various purposes. During the Ottoman Empire, it's believed a dervish was imprisoned here for 40 days, leading to its recognition as a sacred place. In the Austro-Hungarian period, traders utilized it for storing goods due to its consistent temperature. During World War II, Tito and the Supreme Headquarters of the National Liberation Army used the catacombs as a hiding place. Today, the Jajce Catacombs are a designated National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

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