Nestled along the southern ridge of Bjelašnica, the village of Lukomir stands as a testament to tradition, heritage, and the resilience of a community that has defied time. Perched at 1,495 meters, it holds the distinction of being the highest inhabited settlement in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a living museum of nomadic customs and Dinaric highland culture. Join us on a journey to explore the captivating story of Lukomir, the last Bosnian village.
Reaching Lukomir: A Scenic Drive through Time:
Lukomir is accessible from both Konjic and Sarajevo, offering visitors two distinct routes to this extraordinary village. The drive from Sarajevo leads through the mesmerizing landscapes, taking you over Babin Do to Bjelašnica, and ultimately, to Lukomir itself. The final stretch of the journey winds through a gravel road, offering glimpses of a barren karst region and blooming meadows.
Alternatively, two mountain paths connect Lukomir with the village of Umoljani, providing adventurous hikers with an immersive experience in the natural beauty of the region.
A Living Ethnological Museum:
Lukomir is like a step back in time, where the customs of nomadic tribes and Dinaric highlanders are not just preserved but still actively practiced. It serves as an invaluable part of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s historical, cultural, and architectural heritage, creating a unique “heritage atmosphere” for all who visit. Evidence of early habitation is found in the scattered stećci, suggesting that Lukomir was already a thriving community during the 14th and 15th centuries.
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A History of Adaptation:
The roots of Lukomir are traced to the arid plateau of Podveležje in Herzegovina. A semi-nomadic tribe of shepherds migrated seasonally to Bjelašnica’s fertile pastures in search of water for their flocks. Gradually, they settled in Rakitnica Canyon and, eventually, in what we now know as Lukomir.
The village was initially limited to Donji (lower) Lukomir, situated about 3 km from the current village. In the early 20th century, Gornji (upper) Lukomir was established as a summer village, which later became the main village due to improved connections with the outside world.
The Unique Architecture:
Lukomir’s architecture is a reflection of the village’s adaptability to the challenging terrain and mountain climate. The stone houses are distinct, covered in oak, fir, and beech shingles. These homes have a central hearth and small windows, creating an environment ideal for survival in the harsh climate.
Life in Lukomir: Seasonal and Traditional:
Lukomir’s residents now live on a seasonal basis. From May to October, they work the land and tend to their flocks, while the harsh winter conditions force them to leave Lukomir. Of the 50 homes, 21 are inhabited during the summer, and up to 4,000 sheep graze in the surrounding meadows. These sheep are kept in stone enclosures at night and guarded by the loyal Bosnian sheep dogs.
The village boasts modern amenities, including telephone, electricity, water, sewage systems, and even a mosque renovated in 2014.
The Enchanting Vistas and Rural Tourism:
An elevated viewpoint above Lukomir provides breathtaking vistas of the Visočica Mountain chain, plunging 800 meters to meet the Rakitnica Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in Europe after the Tara River Canyon. Lukomir has transformed into a top rural tourism destination where visitors can savor traditional specialties and purchase mementos crafted by the hardworking villagers.
