Ethno villages are guardians of national traditions built in the likeness of former Bosnian-Herzegovinian villages. They take you back to Bosnia a hundred years ago and present various historical aspects of life during that time, as well as untouched natural beauty. These villages are often complemented by modern amenities. They strengthen the local economy and serve as eco and ethno-tourism potentials. There are more than 25 of these villages in Bosnia and Herzegovina, each unique in its own way, but they all share a rich gastronomic offering. Visiting them gives the impression that time has stood still.
In the past, woven kilims and other handicraft carpets were a reflection of a family’s reputation. The more skilled young women were in handcrafts, the wealthier the household. Today, however, things are different.
The climate and soil in Herzegovina favor the development of one of the most consumed plants – tobacco, the so-called “yellow gold” which ensured the financial income of numerous Herzegovinian families. While trying to restore the recognition of Herzegovinian tobacco, the memory of the tradition was immortalized by the opening of the Tobacco Museum in Ljubuški.
The life of Jews in Mostar today is anything but easy. For years, this minority population living in the city on the Neretva River has been trying to improve their position in society and preserve the rich heritage of the Jewish culture in the region.
"If only it could be like the good ol’ times, a time of power and of Tito and his pioneers. Everything would be easier." This is a sentiment you will often hear from people living in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but you will experience the greatest sense of nostalgia in the royal city of Jajce if you visit the Museum of the Second AVNOJ Session in late November.
Banja Luka native Aida Šehović was hit by war when she was just 15 years old. Now, Aida has made it her mission to use art as a means to commemorate the victims of genocide and to educate citizens worldwide about the consequences of war.