…A Medieval Town Gazing into the Past…
Počitelj is a picturesque village in the municipality of Čapljina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, nestled in the Neretva River valley. Renowned for its Oriental-Mediterranean charm, it stands as one of the most beautiful cultural and historical sites in the country. The village is home to a medieval fortress first mentioned in a charter to Duke Stjepan Vukčić in 1444.
Počitelj Fortress
Built between the 15th and 18th centuries, this fortress features a medieval core, with a tower and inner courtyard dating back to the late 14th century, and significant expansions in the late 17th century.
The fortress includes the original medieval nucleus, the donjon with its tower, two bastions, the Dizdar’s house, a granary, a fortified mosque, and a water tower.
Hajji Alija Mosque
Built in 1562-63, this mosque is a stunning example of classic Ottoman single-dome architecture.
The mosque complex includes a mekteb (primary school), imaret (soup kitchen), medresa (theological school), hamam (public bath), han (inn), and a clock tower.
Šišman Ibrahim Pasha Medresa
The Šišman Ibrahim Pasha Medresa, established before 1664, is a religious school with classrooms covered by small domes.
Hamam (public bath)
The Hamam, also built before 1664, features typical Ottoman bath architecture.
Han (inn)
The Han (inn), constructed around 1665, served as a resting place for travelers.
Clock Tower (Sahat-Kula)
Believed to be built after 1664, this stone tower features Mediterranean-Dalmatian architectural influence, with a square base tapering to a pyramid top.
Gavrankapetanović House
A residential complex from the 16th and 17th centuries, showcasing a blend of Mediterranean and Islamic architectural styles.
Additionally, the Gavran Kapetanović House became home to one of the first art colonies in Southeast Europe, established in 1964.
Today, this artistic community continues to thrive, attracting artists from around the world and adding to the cultural vibrancy of Počitelj.
Cultural Significance
In 2003, Počitelj’s historic urban area was declared a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Počitelj is also at the UNESCO Tentative List.
The village offers a unique blend of history and architecture, making it an essential visit for those interested in cultural heritage.
