Semi nomadic tribes of Dinaric Alps
In the village of Lukomir people still live a simple and hard working life of their ancestors, the life of semi nomadic tribes of Dinaric Alps – mainly herding sheep, gathering medicinal plants and working the land. The area is considered high in biodiversity and due to their isolation and limited access to healthcare the villagers know the medicinal plants of the area well.
Descendants of shepherds from Herzegovina
Inhabitants of this village are descendants of shepherds from Herzegovina who used to bring their flocks of sheep in search of water and rich pastures of surrounding mountains during summer months. Lukomir was first mentioned as a summer village at the beginning of the 20th century, but by the 1950 two families of shepherds (Čomor and Masleša) settled here permanently.
National monument
Traditional architecture has been largely preserved and Lukomir is considered an important architectural, cultural and historical legacy of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is also protected as a national monument. The houses here are built from stone, the roofs are covered in oak and beech shingles and windows are small.
Simplicity and practicality
Interior of the house is simple and practical – just the essentials and a few memories. The house construction reflects the harsh mountainous environment. The village has all the infrastructure it needs – electricity, water, sewage and the telephone.
Everyone leaves in winter
However, in the recent years this picturesque village is empty during wintertime. In the last decade or so most young people moved to the cities looking for a better life. The school which had 50 students before the war (1992. – 1995.) does not work anymore and the remaining residents move to the cities with the first snow.
Top rural tourism destination
The future of Lukomir now lies in its touristic potential. It is certainly a top rural tourism destination. Eco tourism became popular here in the recent years and there is a restaurant that offers home made and home grown food.
What to eat?
Everything is prepared from fresh ingredients and on the spot. Traditional pie (called pita) stuffed with spinach, cheese or meat, lamb and fritter with sour cream (uštipci s kajmakom) are best sellers. Something can be found even for vegetarians and vegans though don’t expect a variety of choice.
Support the locals
If you would like to support the hard working villagers and their way of life consider buying hand carved wooden spoons, woolen socks or some of the products made with locally picked medicinal herbs.
Spend the night
Last, but not least consider spending the night here to experience the full magic of this authentic place.
