Banja Luka

Banja Luka is the second largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the largest and most developed city in the Republika Srpska entity. It is located in the northwestern part of the country, on the Vrbas River.

History

The history of Banja Luka dates back to ancient times. There is substantial evidence of a Roman presence in the region during the first few centuries A.D., including an old fort "Kastel" in the city centre. The area of Banja Luka was entirely in the kingdom of Illyria and then a part of the Roman province of Illyricum, which split into Dalmatia and Pannonia.

Geography and Climate

Banja Luka is located at the heart of the Balkan Peninsula. The city lies on the Vrbas River and is well known in the countries of the Former Yugoslavia for being full of tree-lined avenues, boulevards, gardens, and parks. The city experiences a humid continental climate with harsh winters and warm summers.

Economy

Banja Luka's economy is largely based on a mix of heavy and light industry, food processing, construction, trade, and banking. The city is the economic and financial centre of Republika Srpska, with the headquarters of all major banks in the entity.

Culture

Banja Luka has a rich cultural heritage and is renowned for its traditional cultural and religious diversity. It hosts the headquarters of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city is also famous for its annual music, film, and theatre festivals.

Cuisine

Banja Luka is famous for its unique culinary specialties, most notably the "Banja Luka ćevapčići", a dish made of minced meat, mixed with spices and served with onions in a flatbread (somun).

See Also

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Republika Srpska
• Vrbas River
• Serbian Orthodox Church