Sightseeing stop in Zavala: discover beautiful places in Bosnia-Herzegovina

Zavala highlight

We at Monterrasol Transfers specialize in private car transfers. Together with the transfer itself, we propose that you visit some beautiful places along the transfer route. We call such places optional sightseeing stops (short excursions).

One of the places we selected to propose as a sightseeing stop is a beautiful Zavala in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Sightseeing stops are a perfect easy opportunity to see new places during your transfer across Bosnia-Herzegovina, especially during long distance transfers. Take it as a great option to get in touch with local culture and history. It's good to combine transportation and sightseeing together!

An important and historical Serbian Orthodox monastery located in the village of Zavala, approximately 50 km from Trebinje (Republika Srpska). Along with Zitomislic (located near Mostar) and Tvrdos (near the city of Trebinje), Zavala is one of the most prominent monasteries in East Herzegovina.

Last reviewed: 6 April 2019

Zavala description

The Zavala monastery is an important and old Serbian Orthodox monastery located in the village of Zavala, on the eastern part of Popovo Polje, in Herzegovina, about 50 km west of the city of Trebinje. It is dedicated to the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The northern part of the monastery's church is situated in a cave. Along with Zitomislic (located near Mostar) and Tvrdos (near the city of Trebinje), Zavala is one of the most important monasteries in East Herzegovina. It has commonly been assumed that that it was established in 1271, which is the year written on the ancient monastery seal. However, the first written record of the monastery dates from the early sixteenth century. Also, the tradition has preserved the knowledge that the Emperor Constantine and his mother Jelena built the original church in Zavala. Unfortunately, during the Second World War, the monastery suffered great damage, and entire collections of valuable items were destroyed or robbed. Regrettably, during the Bosnian War it was further damaged and abandoned. After the war the monastery was rebuilt again and the brotherhood returned. This monastery is where Saint Basil of Ostrog entered into monasticism.

Zavala Village, located in Popovo Polje, with its old architecture and stone masonry, together with the Vjetrenica cave, constitute the natural and architectural ensemble, which is in the process of being protected as National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and as such it is already placed on UNESCO Tentative List.

We know good things to see in Bosnia-Herzegovina. We know the roads, well-known tourist attractions like UNESCO sites, and off-the-beaten-path places.

If you would like to learn more about Bosnia-Herzegovina and explore it by visiting different attractions, come with us for a private tour. We can travel all across Bosnia-Herzegovina and we will show you all the important tourist attractions together with the hidden gems of this beautiful country. Feel free to contact us!

We have developed numerous itineraries for private car tours in Bosnia-Herzegovina as well as in neighboring countries, including tours passing through several countries as one journey. Solo private tours and tours for Seniors are available also.