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Počitelj: A Stone-Walled Village Frozen in Time

Explore Počitelj, Bosnia's enchanting UNESCO-listed village: a timeless blend of medieval and Ottoman history along the Neretva River.

Počitelj is a captivating village in Bosnia and Herzegovina, showcasing a unique blend of medieval and Ottoman architecture. Nestled in a natural karst amphitheater along the Neretva River, this historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved fortress, mosque, and traditional stone houses.

A brief summary to Počitelj

  • Počitelj, BA

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets and climbing to the fortress.
  • Visit in the spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Take a guided tour from Mostar or other nearby cities for convenient transportation and historical insights.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as it can get hot and shadeless, especially during the summer.
  • Be respectful of the local residents and their property as some families still live within the village.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Mostar, take a bus from Mostar East station towards Čapljina. The most convenient bus departs at 11:10 AM and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Inform the driver that you want to get off at Počitelj. The bus ticket costs around 7 KM (approximately $4 USD). From the bus stop on the main road, it's a short walk uphill to the village entrance.

  • Taxi

    From Mostar, a taxi ride to Počitelj takes approximately 30 minutes. Expect to pay between $22 and $27 USD each way. Recommended taxi companies include Pink Taxi (+387 63 150 011), Moj Taxi Mostar (+387 63 150 300), and Hey Taxi (+387 36 555 095).

  • Car

    From Mostar, drive south along the E73 highway. The drive to Počitelj is straightforward and takes about 30 minutes. Free parking is available at both the bottom and top of the Počitelj complex. Be aware that the road leading up to the upper parking area is narrow and steep.

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Discover more about Počitelj

Počitelj, a designated National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a historic village that seems frozen in time. Located on the left bank of the Neretva River, about 30 kilometers south of Mostar, its strategic position has been vital throughout history. Originally founded in 1383 by Bosnian King Tvrtko I, Počitelj evolved into a fortified complex with both medieval and Ottoman architectural influences. As you wander through the village, you'll discover a captivating blend of cultures and historical periods. The Ottomans left a significant mark, adding architectural gems like the Hadži Alija Mosque, a mekteb (Muslim primary school), an imaret (charitable kitchen), a hamam (Turkish bath), and a clock tower. The Kula, a silo-shaped fort, stands guard over the village, offering panoramic views of the Neretva valley. Počitelj's charm lies in its stone-roofed houses, narrow stairways, and the feeling of stepping back in time. Though damaged during the Bosnian War, extensive restoration efforts have revitalized its historical essence. Today, artists and photographers are drawn to its beauty, and visitors can experience the tranquility of a village that has retained its original form for centuries. Exploring Počitelj requires a bit of walking, as the village is built on a steep hillside. However, the reward is a unique glimpse into Bosnia and Herzegovina's rich history and cultural heritage.

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