Berane is one of the largest and most important cities in the north of Montenegro, located in the fertile and spacious valley of the river Lim, and framed by the mighty mountain massifs of Bjelasica, Cmiljevica and Komovo. Between 1949 and 1992, the city proudly bore the name Ivangrad, in honor of the national hero Ivan Milutinović, remaining remembered as one of the most important industrial and cultural centers of the former Yugoslavia. Known for its extraordinary cultural-historical heritage, harsh yet tame nature and far-famed hospitality, Berane is the perfect destination for a one-day tour during which you can get to know spiritual centers, symbols of freedom and the picturesque banks of the Lim River. If you're staying in this town for one day, here's how to make the most of 24 hours in the heart of Polimlje.
Morning walk with a hot drink on the Beran corse The best way to start the day is in the very center of Beran, an area that exudes a recognizable charm and breadth. The main pedestrian zone, framed by Mojsija Zečević Street, is the famous Beran Corso - a place where the social life of the city has been going on for generations. Here you will find landscaped squares, green parks and numerous cafes and restaurants with gardens. After morning coffee or tea and breakfast in one of the local bakeries, a leisurely stroll through the city center takes you past key cultural institutions, such as the Polim Museum, which preserves the region's priceless archaeological treasures. The calm and open atmosphere of the city provides an opportunity for a pleasant and relaxed start to the day, in which you will easily feel the authentic rhythm of daily life in the north. The spiritual center of Polimlje: the Đurđevi Stupovi Monastery From the city center, a leisurely walk towards the elevation above the valley leads to the most important cultural and historical landmark of this region - the Đurđevi Stupovi Monastery. This monumental temple is an age-old spiritual center, a pillar of literacy and the brightest symbol of the entire Polimlje and the north-east of Montenegro. The construction of the monastery was completed in 1213 by Prefect Stefan Prvoslav, the nephew of Stefan Nemanja, and from then until today, it represents the historical anchor of this nation. It is popularly known as the "martyr's monastery" because the Ottoman forces burned and destroyed it five times during the turbulent past, but the people of this region defiantly rebuilt its walls every time. In addition to the impressive architecture and precious remains of old frescoes from the Nemanjić era, the monastery church also houses the grave of Abbot Mojsi Zečević, a famous historical and spiritual leader of the Vasojević tribe. The monastery plateau itself offers a wonderful, peaceful view of the entire Beran basin. Afternoon rest on the landscaped promenade along Lim After visiting the monastery, it is recommended to return to the river and take a walk along the landscaped banks of Lim. This modern and impeccably arranged pedestrian-recreational zone stretches for over 1,600 meters in the inner city core, combining the natural peace and roar of a fast mountain river with the immediate proximity of the urban center. Apart from being one of the most favorite places for walking, running and recreation of the local population, this project also has a great ecological and security role. Namely, the modern designed bed functions as a stable coastal fortification that permanently protects the city from large flood waves. Parks along the promenade, benches under the treetops and the proximity of clear water make this area ideal for an afternoon rest, relaxation and making beautiful photos with the motifs of Lima. Viewpoint of history and freedom: Jasikovac memorial complex Late afternoon hours are reserved for visiting the Jasikovac Memorial Complex, which is located on the hill of the same name that dominates the city. The central monument of this complex, called "Freedom", is 18 meters high and is shaped in the form of a stylized dome or fishek, around which are arranged 40 large granite blocks inscribed with verses and notes about brotherhood and resistance. Built in 1972 according to the project of the famous architect Bogdan Bogdanović, this complex was declared a cultural property of national importance and was built in memory of the fallen fighters and victims of the Balkan, First and Second World Wars. Jasikovac is also a historical place where Beran patriots were shot in 1941. In addition to its deep historical symbolism, Jasikovac is today one of the city's most beautiful picnic spots, surrounded by a dense forest, from where you can enjoy the most beautiful panoramic view of Berane, the Lima valley and the mountain peaks in the distance at sunset. Do you have more time? Attractions in the vicinity of Beran: If you are planning a longer stay or want to further explore the hidden pearls of this region, the area around Beran offers off-the-beaten-track destinations: Cmiljevica Mountain: The tame and extremely picturesque northeastern branch of the Prokletije mountain massif, which stretches between Beran and Rožaj, following the border with Kosovo. The highest peak of the mountain rises to 1963 meters above sea level. Cmiljevica is known for its rich pastures, vast forests, hidden springs and trails that are ideal for hiking and mountain biking far from civilization. The village of Lubnice: The famous mountain village located at about 1,000 meters above sea level, which is the central hub of the picturesque region of Gornja sela. Lubnice attracts a lot of attention from fans of rural tourism due to its untouched nature, preserved traditional architecture and authentic households that offer local food, honey and forest fruits. Today, the village is well connected by the new road infrastructure leading to Bjelasica and Kolašin. Pešića Lake: A beautiful glacial lake and one of the most attractive on the Bjelasica mountain. It is located in a deep cirque, at the very foot of its highest peaks (Crna Glava, Zekova Glava and Belilo) at a height of 1,820 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by conifer forest and untouched meadows, and is a real gem among Montenegrin "mountain eyes". The village of Kurikuće: Another mountain village located at the foot of Bjelasica, which is a natural gateway to the Biogradska gora National Park from the Beran side. Kurikuće is an ideal starting point for hiking tours towards Suvodol, Lake Šiška and Lake Pešića, known for its clear mountain streams, dense beech forests and the hospitality of the locals. A city of rich history and natural beauty Berane is a destination where at every step, from the stone walls of Đurđev's columns to the granite monuments on Jasikovac, you can feel the proud history and libertarian spirit of the Polimlje people. Surrounded by mighty mountains, connected to nature via the clear and capricious Lim, this city offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, architecture and natural beauty of the north of Montenegro, remaining in the heart of every traveler as a place of warmth, spaciousness and sincere hospitality.