Roman roads, historic memorial sites, blacksmithing and hilly mountain scenery shape Mrkonjić Grad. When planning your trip, you can focus on different aspects: traces of local history and craftsmanship, or destinations in the surrounding countryside. If you are looking for a hotel, you can start by considering which of these aspects you would like to shape your stay.

Roman Traces and More Recent History

The Roman long-distance road Salona–Servitium ran through the area of Mrkonjić Grad. Via western Bosnia, it connected the Adriatic with the Sava and Pannonia. Leusaba, a settlement at a crossroads of Roman roads, stood at the foot of Grabež and later developed into present-day Mrkonjić Grad.

In 1593, Krzlaraga, born Đukanović, established a waqf, a charitable endowment, in Kolobara. It included a mosque, 24 shops, a water supply, a bakery and a library. A fund was also set up to promote crafts and trade. Today, the monument to King Peter I Karađorđević stands in Kolobara.

Another important date is 25 November 1943: the first session of ZAVNOBiH was held in Mrkonjić Grad on that day. The Memorial Museum of the meeting is in the city centre and is designated a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The City Museum in the “Petar Kočić” Cultural Centre has an ethnological collection on folk art, as well as photographs. Together, these places offer different insights into the city’s history and cultural life.

There is also an important testament to medieval history beyond the city centre: the “Tešanovića krčevine” stećak necropolis is located in the village of Baljvine, in the surroundings of Mrkonjić Grad. It is designated an immovable cultural property.

Blacksmithing, Handicrafts and Regional Cuisine

Mrkonjić Grad is considered a centre of blacksmithing in the northwestern part of Republika Srpska. Blacksmiths’ products are sold mainly at markets in Mrkonjić Grad and Banja Luka, as well as in workshops. Traditional crafts also include wooden objects, barrels and flat flasks for rakija. Knitted socks and gloves, colourful rugs, and blankets with traditional embroidery are among the home crafts that continue to be practised.

If you are interested in regional cuisine, you can try buckwheat ljevuša and grilled trout. Crafts and food complement the historical themes with a look at products and dishes associated with the area.

Springs, Lakes and Outdoor Destinations

The region is hilly and mountainous. There are about 1,000 springs in the area, including around 360 smaller and larger springs on Mount Lisina. The “Vrela Sane” Natural Monument encompasses three karst springs of the Sana, the lower course of the Korana and Mračaj Cave.

Lake Balkana is four kilometres from Mrkonjić Grad and consists of the Small and Large Lakes. It is a destination for day trips and swimming; facilities and conditions may vary. Every year, Balkana also hosts a mowing competition in honour of the best scythe-mowers. The event date may change. In winter, the homemade rakija festival brings together numerous producers; dates may vary for this event too.

Zelenkovac, 15 kilometres from Mrkonjić Grad, offers another scenic setting. In a forested landscape, you will find the “Zašto nije Otišao Boro”!? art gallery. The location thus combines a cultural attraction with surroundings that are quite different from the historic sites in the city area.

Climbing and Hiking near Pecka

The climbing area near Pecka has more than 100 routes and is one of the largest climbing areas in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Pecka Visitor Centre is the starting and return point for excursions, climbing, cycling tours, hikes and meetings with guides. If you are planning a specific climb, check the current route conditions.

If the mowing competition or rakija festival is the reason for your trip, check the relevant event date in advance.

Discover More Destinations

Also discover: Popov Most, Podrašnica, Višegrad, Banja Luka, Novi Grad, Kozarska Dubica, Srebrenica, Laktaši.

For the higher-level travel overview: Republika Srpska.