Vražji Kamen stands out for its eroded rock formations. Three of the stone pillars reach heights of 50 to 60 metres. The Church of the Holy Mother of God stands atop a rock pyramid and was formerly also known as the Church in Prosečnik. The medieval church and the Vražji Kamen site are under state protection. Here, geological formations and historical heritage meet in one place.
Rocks and protected landscapes
The Pčinja Valley protected area covers parts of the municipalities of Bujanovac and Trgovište. About 140 bird species, 50 mammal species and more than 400 plant species live in the Pčinja Valley. The protected area also includes the forest complex of Mount Kozjak, which is a prominent natural feature. The Vardenik protected area borders the Vlasina Plateau and lies southwest of Lake Vlasina. There, 14 strictly protected and 45 protected plant species, 96 butterfly species and more than 112 bird species have been recorded.
Monasteries and historic sites
At the foot of Mount Kozjak lies the approximately 900-year-old Prohor Pčinja Monastery, visited by tourists and pilgrims from around the world. Kale–Krševica is an archaeological site in the municipality of Bujanovac, in Pčinja District. Markovo Kale is the remains of a medieval fortification built on ancient foundations. Massive defensive walls and the remains of a cross-shaped religious building bring its varied architectural elements to life.
Vranje: Bridge, Museum and Literature
Vranje is the cultural centre of Pčinja District and lies on Corridor 10, which connects Central Europe with Southern Europe. This connection provides a regional point of reference; specific road conditions and services should be checked separately. The White Bridge (Beli Most) was built in 1844. A Valentine’s Day ritual is associated with it, and the tradition may vary from year to year: many young couples, people in love and married couples cross the bridge twice on that day. People in love also draw water from beneath the bridge and sprinkle it on their clothes to protect their love from evil forces. The Bora Stanković House Museum displays personal belongings of the writer and his family, theatre posters and photographs of performances, as well as book editions and works by Bora Prize winners. Since 1967, the annual Borina Nedelja at the Bora Stanković House has celebrated the writer’s life and work.
Music, Literature and Theatre Throughout the Year
In June, Vranjska Banja hosts the Zlatna Frula competition, which traditionally brings together flute players from the Pčinja and Jablanica districts. The Dani Vranja festival takes place in Vranje every year during the first week of September. Its programme includes an ethno bazaar, a book salon, and presentations and tastings of local specialities; specific programme items may vary. Since 1979, the Borini Pozorišni Dani have been held in the last week of October, bringing theatre from Belgrade and other cities to Vranje.
Regional Cuisine
The area around Vranje also has a distinctive culinary identity. It is known for homemade wine and rakija. Samsa is a typical dish: an unfilled pita topped with sour milk and garlic.
Discover more destinations: Dobrosin, Rudnik, Klisura, Vladičin Han, Vranje, Vranjska Banja, Surdulica, Vlasina Rid, Lalince.
Go to the main travel overview: Central Serbia.
