Katun (Vranje)

A katun is a seasonal mountain pasture, particularly in the Dinaric Alps and surrounding regions, where shepherds traditionally bring their livestock for grazing during the summer months. While the term itself refers to the pastureland, it often also encompasses the temporary settlements and structures built by the shepherds and their families who inhabit the area seasonally.

In the context of Vranje, Serbia, katuns historically played a significant role in the region's pastoral economy. These highland pastures provided crucial grazing land for sheep and goats, allowing for the production of dairy products, wool, and meat. The summer months were a time of intense activity as families moved to the katuns to manage their flocks, process dairy, and prepare for the winter months back in the villages.

The tradition of katuns around Vranje, as in other parts of the Balkans, is undergoing changes due to socio-economic shifts, including rural depopulation and the decline of traditional pastoralism. While some katuns are still actively used for grazing, others have been abandoned or repurposed for tourism, with efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage associated with this way of life. The remaining katuns represent a living link to the past and offer insights into the history and culture of the people of the Vranje region.