Happy TravellerWelcome to Gradačac, a historic city located in the Tuzla Canton of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. With a population of over 39,000 inhabitants, Gradačac is situated in the northeastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, approximately 40 km (25 mi) south of the Sava river. The city is well known for its castle, which is a must-see attraction for visitors. But there’s much more to discover in Gradačac, from its rich history to its thermal springs and local industries.
History:
Gradačac has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 14th century when the župa of Gradačac was first mentioned. The town became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1512 and played an important role in the Bosnian uprising of 1831, led by Husein-kapetan Gradaščević or Zmaj od Bosne (Dragon of Bosnia). Today, visitors can explore the town’s fort with 18-meter high walls built between 1765 and 1821, and a 22-meter high watchtower built in 1824 by Husein-kapetan Gradaščević on foundations made originally by the Romans. The Husejnija Mosque, built in 1826, is also a popular attraction.
Thermal Springs:
Gradačac is home to the Ilidža Spa Treatment Centre, which was built on the thermal springs in 1882. The water temperature is 29.30˚C found at a depth of 286 meters. In the area nearby are also two lakes Hazna and Vidara. Both lakes were built as part of a project for protecting the city from floods that took the final stroke in 1964 and 1967 when the city’s industrial part was underwater due to extensive floods.
Economy:
The most important industries in Gradačac are textile, chemical, mechanical, and food processing. Gradačac is the place where the traditional international fair for plums Sajam šljive (also known as Šljivarevo) is held. In August 2015, the traditional international plum fair Sajam šljive was attended by 250 presenters from Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Germany, Turkey, and Hungary. One of the more notable local firms is Kula, which was founded in 1960 as a small local factory producing clothing. Today, Kula is a modern and respected company in Eastern Europe with 700 employees and an annual production of 300,000 pieces. Kula visits fashion fairs in the country and Europe. Kula’s models were seen in fashion fairs in Brussels, Leipzig, Düsseldorf, and Brno.
Education:
In the municipality, there are two high schools, seven elementary, and 14 regional schools.
Sport:
NK Zvijezda Gradačac is the local football club.
Notable people:
Gradačac has produced several notable people, including computer scientist Ivona Brandić, footballer Dario Damjanović, nobleman Husein Gradaščević, writer Ahmed Muradbegović, writer Julijana Matanović, historian Mustafa Imamović, poet Hasan Kikić, general Stjepan Šiber, high jumper Ana Šimić, and volleyball player Meliha İsmailoğlu (a.k.a. Meliha Smajlović).
Twin towns – sister cities:
Gradačac is twinned with Düren, Germany; Sivas, Turkey; and Stryi, Ukraine.
Gallery:
Check out the stunning photos of Gradačac in our gallery.
Gradačac Castle:
Don’t miss the chance to visit Gradačac Castle, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The castle was built in the 18th century and has been beautifully preserved. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and learn about its fascinating history.
In conclusion, Gradačac is a hidden gem in Bosnia and Herzegovina that is waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, thermal springs, and local industries, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. So why not plan your trip to Gradačac today and experience all that this enchanting destination has to offer?
