Jajce is a small city in the central part of Bosnia and Herzgeovina. It’s hard to believe that just a couple hours by bus away from the country’s capital Sarajevo there could be such a magical and interesting small town. Besides the beautiful nature, Jajce hides many layers of history, from the medieval times, Ottoman era and the Second World War.
Jajce was founded in the 14th century and it served as a capital of the independent Kingdom of Bosnia. It was also a seat of the last Bosnian king, as well as the place where he was killed by the Ottomans who had besieged the town. You can visit the 14th century fortress. The central part of the castle is located on top of the hill overlooking the city and within the town there are various parts of old fortified wall as well as gates. Thanks to this historic legacy, Jajce is currently a candidate for being named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Another part of the medieval constructions of the town are an underground church and catacombs. They are small, but they are still in an exellent condition.
If you are more interested in the recent history, you should definitly check out the AVNOJ Museum. The Anti-Fascist Council for the National Liberation of Yugoslavia, or more conveniently known as AVNOJ, was the Communist council that organized a resistance movement against the fascist forces that occupied Bosnia & Herzegovina during the Second World War. The second time they met was in this building in Jajce, and was where Tito, later the leader of Yugoslavia, essentially formed his first communist government of Yugoslavia. The council building is now a museum dedicated to this significant event, with a reconstruction of the council chamber and a number of items from the period, such as portraits of Stalin and Yugoslavian flags.
If you are looking to get away from the noise and enjoy lovely scenery, you will not be disappointed with Jajce. One of Jajce’s unique features is the Pliva Falls, a waterfall located in the town center. The falls are more than 20 meters high, and are at the point where two rivers meet and converge.
Also, just a short drive from Jajce itself are the Pliva Lakes, an area of stunning natural beauty. The lakes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming. They are surrounded by lush green hills, which are also perfect for hiking. Near to the lakes are some old watermills, which were built in the Middle Ages and were key to local industry.
People of Jajce are very warm and welcoming and you will not regret visiting this charming town.