Stolac

Stolac is a town and municipality located in Herzegovina-Neretva Canton of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, an entity within Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is situated in the southeastern part of the country, near the border with Croatia.

Geography and Location

Stolac is located in a valley surrounded by mountains. The Bregava River flows through the town, contributing to its historical and agricultural significance. The climate is Mediterranean, characterized by hot summers and mild winters.

History

Stolac has a rich and layered history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times. The area was inhabited by Illyrians, Romans, and Slavs. During the medieval period, Stolac was part of various Bosnian kingdoms and duchies. The Ottoman Empire controlled Stolac for several centuries, leaving a lasting impact on its culture and architecture. After the Austro-Hungarian occupation, Stolac became part of Yugoslavia. The Bosnian War in the 1990s had a significant impact on the town, resulting in displacement and demographic changes.

Culture and Heritage

Stolac is known for its well-preserved historical architecture, including the Old Town of Stolac (Stari Grad Stolac), which is a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Old Town features Ottoman-era mosques, houses, and fortifications. The Radimlja necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located near Stolac and contains numerous medieval tombstones (stećci). The town's cultural heritage reflects a blend of Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences.

Demographics

The population of Stolac has fluctuated significantly throughout its history, particularly during and after the Bosnian War. Pre-war, the municipality had a mixed population of Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs. The war resulted in displacement and demographic shifts. Today, the population demographics reflect the impact of those events.

Economy

The economy of Stolac is primarily based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. Tourism is also an important sector, with visitors drawn to the town's historical sites and natural beauty.