Today! Open restored 600 years old Tekija House in Blagaj near Mostar

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Mai

Only 12 km from Mostar, overlooking the waters of the Buna River, is the charming little town of Blagaj. This medieval town, found in the area of Hum, from the mid-15th century became the present Herzegovina. From the remains of the ancient city, or the Fortress of Herzeg Stjepan (lord of these lands before the Ottomans’ arrival in 1465), situated in a strategic, rocky position above the natural spring of the Buna, you can admire a stunning panorama over the wide valley of the Neretva.

The magical view you will enjoy fully justifies the one hour's effort made to climb to the top. In and around this area you can admire: the Velagic House (admirable example of Ottoman architecture), the Mosque of the Sultan Sulejman (built around 1520), the Bridge of the Karadjoz-Bey on the River Buna, dating back to 1570, and the Hammam built between the 16th and 17th centuries. On the right bank of the river, in a natural landscape of rare beauty, soars the 16th century Tekija, the Dervish House suspended between the water and the rocks; for centuries a place of meditation and prayer. The present Tekija was built in the first half of the 19th century..Inside the building, there are rooms for studying and praying, the ‘musafirhana’ (bedrooms for guests and occasional travellers), a kitchen and the 'hammam'. Near the monastery, there is the funeral chapel (turbe) that preserves the remains of the Dervish Sari-Saltuk and Ačik-Pascià.

The Tekija, open all year to visitors, is one of the most important examples of Islamic sacred residential architecture of Bosnia-Herzegovina. Blagaj, with its antique Fortress, the splendid landscape surrounding it and the spectacular energy of the Buna River's natural source, is one of the most precious treasures of this region. While here, enjoy tasting some of the trout dishes offered by the local restaurants. Blagaj can be reached both by car and by bus. The Mostar Bus Company runs every day from the “Lira” stop (in Trg Ivana Krndelja) in Mostar.