What to see in Počitelj? Is this historical oasis with a view of the Neretva worth visiting?

Located on the very slopes of the emerald green Neretva River, Počitelj, a picturesque town in Herzegovina located about 30 km from Mostar and a few minutes from Čapljina, is known for its unique oriental architecture and rich history.

Its narrow cobbled streets, stone houses and impressive fortress make it a true pearl and the only one of the most authentic historical places in Bosnia and Herzegovina that has been attracting travelers from all over the world for centuries.

Here is what you must not miss when you visit it!

Počitelj, Photo: Muhur Depositphotos

POCITELJ FORTRESS AND GAVRANKAPETANOVIĆ’S TOWER

As soon as you arrive in Počitelj, you will notice that its fortress and its main symbol, Gavrankapetanović Tower, dominate the place. Built in the 15th century, the fortress served as a key defensive point against the Ottoman conquests, with a spectacular view of the Neretva and the surrounding hills.

Although the Ottoman Empire later conquered it, upgrades were made to it that still adorn this place to this day.

The climb up to the fortress can be a little challenging, but every step is worth it for the view from the top.

ŠIŠMAN-IBRAHIM-PASHA MOSQUE

Built in 1563, the Šišman-Ibrahim Pasha Mosque is one of the best-preserved Ottoman monuments in the region and is a masterpiece of its time. Its elegant minaret and harmonious interior bear witness to the cultural significance of Počitelj during the Ottoman Empire.

Although this historic building was significantly damaged during the war in the 1990s, it was restored to give visitors an insight into the rich heritage of this region.

Šišman-Ibrahim-pasha mosque, Photo: Dudlajzov, Depositphotos

POČITELJ CLOCK-TOWER

Located on a hill, this Ottoman tower was built in the 17th century and served as a public clock that regulated the daily life of the inhabitants. The tower is made of stone, in keeping with the rest of the city’s architecture, and its elegant design reflects the Ottoman influence. In addition to being important for the organization of trade and prayer rituals, the clock tower is today a testimony to the skill and precision of the architecture of that era.

Clock tower, Photo: Dudlajzov, Depositphotos

In addition to historical attractions, Počitelj also contains stories about the everyday lives of its inhabitants throughout the centuries. In the center of the city, there are the remains of a hammam and a Turkish bath, which was an important place of relaxation and socializing in the Ottoman era. Not far from the hammam are the harems, spaces intended for the private life of women, which depict the way of life at that time.

Walking along Počitelj, it is easy to imagine how this city was once bustling with life, while its inhabitants performed their daily rituals in this fairy-tale environment.

Today, Počitelj is also the home of an art colony, which gathers painters, sculptors, and creative people from all over the world. Inspired by authentic architecture, cobbled streets, and views of the Neretva River, artists here create true masterpieces. If you visit this place during workshops or exhibitions, you will have the opportunity to feel how Počitelj inspires the creation of new stories and artistic visions.

While exploring this small and wonderful place, stop at local stands with local products or restaurants with traditional Herzegovinian specialties. These little pleasures, along with the unmissable views of the Neretva valley, will make your visit to Počitelj a unique and unforgettable experience.

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