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TREBINJE MARKET: A GEM OF HERITAGE AND TRADITION

Walking through the serene streets of Trebinje’s city center, shaded by the century-old plane trees, you are greeted by the gentle aroma of fresh fruit and the lively calls of vendors.

TREBINJE MARKET: A GEM OF HERITAGE AND TRADITION

These sounds, like an invisible guide, lead you to a place where the vibrant colors of the city converge—the famous Trebinje Market. Recently named one of the best markets in the world by The Financial Times, this market has been the beating heart of Trebinje for centuries.

Located in Freedom Square, the market's history dates back to the Austro-Hungarian era, maintaining its original charm and spirit despite the passage of time. Here, the scene remains unchanged: bustling trade, warm gatherings, and the exchange of authentic, locally crafted products.

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE STALLS

Among the market’s treasures are its people, like Čedo Mastilović, a cheese and cream vendor who has been a part of this community since 1984. His journey began as a family affair, producing cheese and cream with his parents in the nearby town of Gacko.

After his parents passed away, Čedo shifted from production to trading, dedicating his life to offering the finest traditional products, including creamy kajmak and richly flavored cheeses. "The market is my life," he says with a warm smile. "Every day is a chance for new encounters, stories, and friendships." Customers from across the region—and even abroad—flock to his stall, drawn by the exceptional quality of his goods and his unwavering passion for his craft.

Nearby, Sava Kapor, a produce vendor, arranges fresh vegetables from her home garden. Her hands, worn from years of labor, are a testament to her dedication. "Everything we grow, we bring to the market. What we eat is what we sell, because honesty and quality come first," she explains. Her offerings—parsley, Swiss chard, cucumbers, and onions—are cultivated with love and care, reflecting her family’s commitment to tradition and hard work.

SWEETNESS FROM THE HILLS

A few steps away, the aroma of honey lures visitors to Nedeljko Pažin’s stall. For over 27 years, his family has been perfecting the art of beekeeping in the picturesque hills of Zupci, where bees gather nectar from three bordering nations: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Croatia.

Nedeljko, who started with a single beehive, now manages over 200. "Beekeeping is not just a job; it’s a passion and a way of life," he shares. Visitors can taste the honey before buying, and many become loyal customers, enchanted by the unique flavors of sage, heather, and zanovijet.

TRADITION IN EVERY DROP

The market also boasts stalls brimming with rakija and wine, showcasing the rich heritage of winemaking and distillation in Herzegovina. These products embody the land’s unique climate and the meticulous care of local producers. "Every bottle carries the story of our ancestors," says a vendor proudly, offering samples to curious buyers.

A PLACE OF CONNECTION

Trebinje Market is more than a place of commerce; it’s a hub of connection, tradition, and community. Whether you’re drawn by the flavors, the stories, or the warm smiles of the vendors, the market captures the soul of Trebinje. It’s a reminder that heritage lives on not just in places but in the people who cherish and sustain it.

For those who visit, the market isn’t just a stop—it’s an experience, a journey through the heart of a city where the past and present blend seamlessly. Trebinje Market is, without a doubt, a treasure worth discovering.