Welcome to Ljubinje
Ljubinje is an administrative unit with a long historical tradition, first mentioned in written sources in the 14th century. Located between Trebinje and Mostar, it is famous for its numerous necropolises with Stecak tombstones, which witness to the medieval life in this area.
Culture
The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin, which houses a Gospel from 1793 bound in a metal cover, is listed as a national monument. Archaeological research at this locality has uncovered remains and walls of earlier churches, ancient tombs and movable archaeological artifacts, currently undergoing evaluation. The municipality is also home to a significant number of Stecak tombstones, as well as the Church of Prince Lazar.
A favorable climate and geographic location have made Ljubinje historically known as an agricultural region where every meter of land is cultivated. Recognized for its centuries-old tobacco production, which was an important source of income and remains so to this day, Herzegovinian “skija” tobacco has been enjoyed throughout history by sultans, qadis, corporals, officers, dukes, archdukes, common folk, travelers and writers.
Ljubinje is also notable for products made from medicinal and aromatic herbs, particularly lavender and immortelle. Antiseptics, teas, cosmetics and inhalation oils are just part of the range produced in this small municipality rich with hardworking people.
Nature
Among the natural rarities, the “Green Oak” in Bancici stands out, which is related to Saint Sava. According to the legend, when Saint Sava as Prince Rastko traveled through these lands of his father Grand Prince Stefan Nemanja, he rested one summer under the shade of an oak tree. In gratitude, he blessed it to remain green forever. The Green Oak is a centuries-old tree and its leaves do not go yellow, retaining their greenery until late March.
Gastro
Interestingly, the only factory for processing garlic in the Balkans is in Ljubinje. It is believed there are around 400 varieties, with Ljubinje garlic ranked among the top ten for its quality and healing properties.
Stecak tombstones
From the Middle Ages to today, stone tombstones known as Stecak have been preserved in Ljubinje. Their total number exceeds 600, some featuring original relief motifs of decorative and symbolic nature, and a few with inscriptions in Old Bosnian Cyrillic. Notable necropolises include those in Vlahovici where the Church of Prince Lazar is located, the necropolis in the center of Ljubinje near the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin and two necropolises in Ubosko.
