Located in the Bosnian mountains, this small town lies near mysterious pyramid-shaped hills, ancient Roman sites, and Ottoman mosques. Mountain trails weave through the valley's archaeological sites.
In Visoko, 35 kilometers from Sarajevo, you can climb to a medieval fortress, explore 3.8 kilometers of underground tunnels, and watch potters work with centuries-old techniques. The city's pyramid-shaped hills have sparked international debates, while its award-winning White Mosque and ancient Neolithic settlements tell stories of different eras. Local leather workshops still use traditional tanning methods, and the city museum houses 87,000 archaeological artifacts from the region.
Getting to Visoko
You can reach Visoko by car or public transport via the E73 highway between Zenica and Sarajevo. Catch daily buses from the main station on Bosne Srebrene Street to Sarajevo, Travnik, and Banja Luka. If you prefer trains, head to the station near the Franciscan Monastery for regular connections to Sarajevo.
The Pyramid Hills and Ravne Complex
The hills surrounding Visoko have drawn curious visitors since 2006. While the scientific community dismisses claims about artificial pyramids, many people come to form their own opinions. You can join guided tours through the 3.8-kilometer Ravne tunnel network. Next to the tunnels, Ravne 2 park contains botanical gardens and designated spaces for meditation.
Medieval History and Fortress
From Visočica hill, you can explore ruins of the 14th-century Visoki Fortress. King Tvrtko used this stronghold to govern the medieval Bosnian Kingdom until its abandonment in the 16th century. The climb rewards you with views across the valley.
Religious Architecture
The White Mosque, designed by architect Zlatko Ugljen, won the 1983 Aga Khan Award for its modern interpretation of Islamic design. You can visit the 13th-century Franciscan monastery of Saint Bonaventure to see its library and art collection. The 1857 Orthodox Church of St. Procopius adds to the city's multi-religious character.
Traditional Crafts
Local tanners built the Tabhanska mosque in the 17th century, marking Visoko's long connection with leather-making. Visit Vahid Ohran's workshop to see traditional pottery techniques that have passed through generations.
Local Museums
Inside the Homeland Museum, next to the old cinema, you'll find artifacts spanning from Neolithic times through the Middle Ages. The collection includes traditional musical instruments among its 87,000 archaeological items discovered in the Visoko basin.
Food Specialties
Look for "Visočka pečenica," a protected dried meat specialty produced in Visoko since 2020. Restaurants line the riverbank, where you can taste traditional Bosnian dishes while looking out over the water.
