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Mihaljevići Necropolis

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Mihaljevići Necropolis (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

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The Mihaljevići Necropolis, located in the Rajlovac valley near Sarajevo, is one of the most significant archaeological sites for medieval Stećci in the region. Systematic excavations conducted in the 1950s led by Šefik Bešlagić uncovered numerous graves containing valuable grave goods such as jewelry and ceramics. The necropolis consists of over 50 tombstones fashioned in various forms, including slabs and massive stone blocks. Particularly noteworthy are the inscriptions written in Bosnian Cyrillic (bosančica), which record the names of the deceased and their kin. The site provides vital information about settlement structures and social hierarchies in medieval Vrhbosna. Many artifacts discovered here are now preserved in the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, documenting the high level of cultural development during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-2-127121618181394-1
Rain mm6364696999103756177717473

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The necropolis is an open-air archaeological site freely accessible to visitors. Walk among the medieval Stećci tombstones, which are protected as a national monument, and respect their historical significance.
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Typical hours
As an open-air site, it is accessible at any time without an admission fee. Visiting during daylight is recommended to better see the carvings on the tombstones.
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Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions. The decorated Stećci stones make excellent subjects for close-up and detail shots.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes between 30 minutes and one hour. Add extra time if you want to explore the surrounding countryside.
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Combine with
Nearby attractions include the city of Sarajevo and the village of Lukomir. The site is part of a series of medieval necropolises in Bosnia worth linking on a route.
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Getting there
The necropolis is located near the village of Hreša, accessible by car via local roads. A short walk from the parking area leads to the tombstones.
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Insider tip
Wear comfortable shoes as the ground around the tombstones can be uneven. Bring a guidebook or app to decode the symbols on the Stećci.

Geography

Coordinates
43.89120, 18.32450

Facts

  • Home to over 50 medieval tombstones (Stećci).
  • Extensively researched in the 1950s by archaeologists.
  • Features inscriptions in the medieval Bosančica script.
  • Grave goods like silver rings were discovered here.
  • Located in the strategically important Rajlovac valley.
  • The monuments mainly date back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Rajlovac Logistics CenterRajlovac Logistics Center2 km · SExplore →
VogošćaVogošća2 km · NEExplore →
BriješćeBriješće5 km · SExplore →
Sarajevsko Polje Old TownSarajevsko Polje Old Town7 km · SWExplore →
History Museum of Bosnia and HerzegovinaHistory Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina7 km · SEExplore →
Tunnel of HopeTunnel of Hope8 km · SExplore →
Sarajevo ZooSarajevo Zoo8 km · EExplore →
IlijašIlijaš8 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Mihaljevići Necropolis (3)

Golo Brdo (Žuč)

Bare hill on Mount Žuč, a site of historical significance from World War II.

Kota 850, Žuč

Elevation 850 on Mount Žuč, a strategic point during the 1990s conflicts.

Spomenik Fikret Kavazović Roki (Armija RBiH)

Monument to Fikret Kavazović, a soldier of the Army of Bosnia, on Mount Žuč.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Mihaljevići necropolis special?
It features elaborately decorated Stećci that offer insights into medieval art.
Can the inscriptions still be read?
Some are barely recognizable due to weathering, while others are still surprisingly clear.
Are there information boards?
Detailed explanations are often missing on site; prior research is recommended.
When is the best light for photography?
In the late afternoon, when the slanting light highlights the stone reliefs.
Is there a charge for access?
No, the site is freely accessible and not fenced.
Mihaljevići Necropolis: where is it located?
Mihaljevići Necropolis is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Mihaljevići Necropolis: what is there to see?
Highlights include Golo Brdo (Žuč), Kota 850, Žuč, Spomenik Fikret Kavazović Roki (Armija RBiH).
Mihaljevići Necropolis: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mihaljevići Necropolis: why is it worth visiting?
The Mihaljevići Necropolis, located in the Rajlovac valley near Sarajevo, is one of the most significant archaeological sites for medieval Stećci in the region.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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