Bihać is known for the natural beauties that surround it, as well as for the abundance of cultural and historical monuments that tell the history of this city. According to the 2013 census, the city had a population of 56,261 and a settlement of 39,690 inhabitants.
The first historical document mentioning Bihać is the charter of the Hungarian king Bela IV on February 26, 1260. After two years, Bihac was proclaimed a royal free city and placed under the direct rule of the Hungarian throne, with all the rights and privileges that helped in many ways its development regardless of the political power of local lords.
In 1530, the Austrian committee secured troops to defend seven key strongholds in Croatia, one of which was Bihać and Ripač. The Turks occupied Bihać in 1592 after a ten-day siege and since then Bihać has been the site of the most important fortress in Bosnia until the 19th century. The Ottoman rule in Bihać de facto ended after the Berlin Congress.
During World War II, Bihac was included in Pavelić’s Independent State of Croatia after being captured by Axis powers troops.
The city was the capital of a short-lived territory, the Republic of Bihać, for two months in late 1942 and early 1943 until it was recaptured by German forces. Bihac was returned to Bosnian territory on March 28, 1945.
Captain’s Tower
Take a walk along the lower part of Bihać, on the left bank of the Una River, and you will come across the famous Captain’s Tower. It is located in the lower part of the city, on the left bank of the river Una. It is not known when it was built and based on the available historical maps of the city and its surroundings, it is considered that it was built before 1697. According to folklore, the Hungarian king Bela IV stayed in the tower during the Tatar invasion.
Ostrožac
Ostrožac Fortress is a real historical gem, located in the municipality of Cazin, 14 kilometres from Bihać. The castle dates back to the 16th century when the Ottomans founded the Ottoman province of Bosnia. Proudly ascending to 206 meters above sea level, Ostrožac testifies to the rich history of this city. Its interesting architecture and combination of different styles leave an impression on every visitor.
Una River
The Una River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Bosnia and Herzegovina and is the fourth largest river in the country. Forming the natural border between Croatia and BiH, Una flows with a total length of 212 kilometres. The beauty of the Una River is indescribable to many, and it is a favourite place for swimming and enjoying adrenaline adventures. Picturesque, with enchanting colours and crystal clear water, Una creates an abundance of waterfalls, rapids, and cascades. The Una International Regatta is also held on the Una, attracting a large number of tourists from all over the world every year.
Una National Park
National Park Una is one of the 4 national parks in Bosnia and Herzegovina and is located in the extreme west of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the border with Croatia. The rivers Una, Unac and Krka represent the greatest treasure and heritage of the park, offering visitors various ways to explore their beauty. Many come to admire their beeches, waterfalls and cascades, as well as to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of this region. Others opt for adventure tourism in the form of rafting, kayaking, canoeing, canyoning, hiking, as well as mountain biking.
Japodski Otoci
Located a few kilometres from Bihać, on five river islands, you will find a place called Japodski Otoci- a heart-shaped natural wonder. Visitors can spend their time here in a variety of ways – whether it’s just enjoying the beauty of nature that surrounds the Una river, or embarking on a rafting adventure on Štrbački Buk. You will also have the opportunity to taste the authentic traditional dishes of this area and find evening peace in one of the wooden bungalows or treehouses – perfect for a complete experience of nature around you.
Bihać has many accommodation facilities including hotels, motels, hostels, and private accommodation. Those who want to be in touch with nature can choose between bungalows and romantic tree houses in the Una National Park and the Japodski Islands. Various categories of accommodation offer opportunities for everyone’s pocket – from luxury hotels to places ideal for those on a budget, Bihać has taken care of you.
