Trebišnjica River

The Trebišnjica is one of the world's most fascinating waterways, renowned as the longest sinking river (ponornica) in the Balkans. It flows through the arid karst region of eastern Herzegovina, following a complex path that is partially above ground and partially through vast networks of subterranean channels. Originally, its total length was approximately 187 kilometers, though the construction of dams and canals for the "Gornji horizonti" hydroelectric system has significantly altered its natural flow. The river's most famous section runs through the city of Trebinje, where it is spanned by historical structures like the Ottoman-era Arslanagić Bridge. The Trebišnjica feeds multiple underground streams that eventually resurface along the Adriatic coast as submarine springs known as vrulje. Geologically, the river is of immense value for karst research, as it hydrates one of the world's largest underground cave systems, which is home to the rare olm (Proteus anguinus). Today, while the river is vital for the region's energy production and agriculture, it remains an ecologically sensitive system under continuous environmental monitoring.

Nearby cities

Lukavica

Lukavica is an administrative center in Republika Srpska, which forms a large part of East Sarajevo.

East Sarajevo

East Sarajevo is a city in Republika Srpska adjacent to the city of Sarajevo.

Briješće

Briješće is a settlement in the Novi Grad municipality, a suburb of the capital Sarajevo.

Ilidža

Ilidža is a municipality in the Sarajevo Canton and a major health resort.

Konjic

Konjic is located on the Neretva River, roughly halfway between Sarajevo and Mostar.

Foča

Foča is located in the east of the country at the confluence of the Drina and Ćehotina rivers.

Bileća

Bileća is located in eastern Herzegovina on the artificial Lake Bileća.

Kravica Waterfall

A spectacular natural phenomenon on the Trebižat River, often referred to as the 'Little Niagara' of Bosnia.

Ljubuški

Ljubuški is located in the heart of Herzegovina and is famous for the Kravica waterfalls.

Široki Brijeg

Široki Brijeg is the administrative center of the West Herzegovina Canton.

Vogošća

Vogošća is a municipality north of Sarajevo and a key industrial suburb of the capital.

Tihovići

Tihovići is a small settlement near the capital Sarajevo.

Čapljina

Čapljina is located in southern Herzegovina at the confluence of four rivers.

Stolac

Stolac is located in southern Herzegovina on the Bregava River.

Pale

Pale is located east of Sarajevo at the foot of the Jahorina Mountains.

History & landmarks

Počitelj

Historic Ottoman-style village built into a limestone cliff overlooking the Neretva river.

Zavala Monastery

An ancient Orthodox monastery partially built into the rock above the Popovo Polje plain.

Nature

Bileća Lake

An artificial lake on the Trebišnjica River in southern Herzegovina.

Vjetrenica Cave

The world's most biodiverse cave hosts over 200 animal species, including the famous olm.

More places

Sarajevo City Hall

Built in the Pseudo-Moorish style, the Vijećnica is one of the most magnificent buildings from the Austro-Hungarian period in Sarajevo.

Arslanagić Bridge

The Arslanagić Bridge in Trebinje is a masterpiece of Ottoman bridge architecture, moved stone by stone to its current location.

Hercegovačka Gračanica

This Serbian Orthodox church is located on Crkvina Hill above Trebinje.

Klobuk Fortress

Klobuk Fortress near Trebinje was a significant fortification in medieval Hum.

Popovo Polje

One of the largest karst fields in the world, located in southern Herzegovina.

Hrastov Do Necropolis

Hrastov Do is a significant site for medieval Stećci.