Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards
Date of Inscription: 2016
Selection criteria: (iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards is a UNESCO World Heritage site that consists of a series of more than 70 medieval tombstone graveyards located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia. These graveyards date back to the 12th century and are known for their unique and intricate designs, as well as their cultural significance.
Prominent Features:
Fun Fact: The Stećci tombstones are renowned for their unusual and unique designs, which are unlike anything found in other parts of Europe. Some of the tombstones are decorated with intricate carvings that depict scenes from daily life, while others feature religious and mythological motifs. Many of the tombstones also include inscriptions in the Glagolitic script, which was used by the Slavic peoples of the region in the Middle Ages.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards.
How to Reach It:
Where to Stay: As for accommodation, there are several options available in the Dubrovnik area, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular areas to stay include the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Lapad, and Babin Kuk.
Selection criteria: (iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards is a UNESCO World Heritage site that consists of a series of more than 70 medieval tombstone graveyards located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia. These graveyards date back to the 12th century and are known for their unique and intricate designs, as well as their cultural significance.
Prominent Features:
- The graveyards are made up of more than 60,000 tombstones, each of which is carved with unique designs and inscriptions.
- The tombstones are characterized by their distinctive shapes, which include rectangular, circular, and octagonal.
- Many of the tombstones feature intricate carvings that depict scenes from daily life, as well as religious and mythological motifs.
- The graveyards are also significant for their cultural and historical importance, as they provide important insights into the customs and beliefs of the medieval Slavic peoples who lived in the region.
Fun Fact: The Stećci tombstones are renowned for their unusual and unique designs, which are unlike anything found in other parts of Europe. Some of the tombstones are decorated with intricate carvings that depict scenes from daily life, while others feature religious and mythological motifs. Many of the tombstones also include inscriptions in the Glagolitic script, which was used by the Slavic peoples of the region in the Middle Ages.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards.
How to Reach It:
- By car: The easiest way to reach the Croatian sites of the Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards is by car. The main sites are located near the town of Dubrovnik and can be accessed via the E65 highway. There is free parking available near the sites.
- By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Dubrovnik and other major cities in Croatia, as well as neighboring countries. From Dubrovnik, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the Stećci sites.
- By guided tour: There are several guided tours available that visit the Stećci sites as part of a larger itinerary that includes other historical and cultural attractions in the region. These tours typically depart from Dubrovnik and may include transportation and admission fees.
Where to Stay: As for accommodation, there are several options available in the Dubrovnik area, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular areas to stay include the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Lapad, and Babin Kuk.