Our photo tour will traverse the stark ridges of concrete and steel, exploring how these monuments interact with the land and the skies—giants rooted in the earth, yet untethered from their original purpose. Through the lens of two extraordinary mentors, Canon Ambassador Luka Vunduk and National Geographic photographer Matjaz Krivic (both born in Yugoslavia) we will delve into the heart of brutalism creating friendly and truly unique photo and cultural experience that you will never forget.

These structures, often situated in remote and challenging landscapes, aimed to reflect the ideals of the emerging nation.

The Spomeniks, a term which translates to “monuments” in English, became the most iconic expression of Yugoslav brutalist architecture. These abstract and avant-garde structures were designed by prominent architects like Vojin Bakić, Dušan Džamonja, and Bogdan Bogdanović. Each Spomenik featured a unique design that aimed to capture the essence of the event it commemorated. The Memorial to the Revolution in Podgarić, Croatia, for instance, takes the form of an abstract representation of Partisan fighters rising from the ground, symbolizing the rebirth of the nation through their sacrifices.

Itinerary:

1. Zagreb – Podgarić – Jasenovac – Kozara
2. Kozara – Bravsko – Smrike – Travnik
3. Travnik – Tjentište/Foča
4. Foča – Kadinjača – Užice
5. Užice – Popina – Bubanj – Kosmaj
6. Kosmaj – Belgrade (airport)

Detailed itinerary will be sent to you when you make the booking.

We travel in one or two very comfortable SUV’s (very likely Japanese land cruisers) or 1-2 minibuses/vans for groups of 10 or more.

Minimum number of participants 5, max 12

Detailed itinerary will be sent to you when you make the booking.

And last but most certainly not least: when we travel from one monument to another, there will be the wonderfully stunning Balkans with their fantastic cuisine, remote villages, wonderful valleys, gorgeous canyons, laid-back towns, greenish rivers, Bosnian coffee in a džezva, hospitable people who will very often open their hearts to you.

Embarking on a journey through the enchanting lands of the Balkans with the three of us is not merely a venture; it’s an odyssey infused with cultural richness, historical depth, and a tapestry of languages woven seamlessly across diverse landscapes. As we, three seasoned travelers, born amidst the vibrant tapestry of ex-Yugoslavia, set foot on this expedition, we find ourselves uniquely equipped to unlock the treasures hidden within this mesmerizing region.

Our linguistic prowess stands as a beacon, illuminating the path to authentic experiences. With fluency in the myriad tongues that echo through Balkan valleys, we transcend mere tourists, seamlessly integrating into the fabric of local life. Whether bargaining in the bustling bazaars of Sarajevo or conversing with villagers in the tranquil highlands of Montenegro, our linguistic dexterity serves as a bridge, fostering connections that transcend borders.

Yet, our affinity with the Balkans extends beyond language; it’s deeply rooted in our shared heritage. Born in ex-Yugoslavia, we carry within us the echoes of its tumultuous past and the resilience of its people. Our understanding of its nuances and intricacies grants us unparalleled insight, allowing us to navigate its labyrinthine streets with the confidence of seasoned explorers.

Moreover, our extensive experience as travelers imbues us with a discerning eye for the extraordinary.

Crucially, our network of friendships woven across the Balkans serves as a testament to the bonds that unite us. In every town and village, we are greeted not as strangers, but as kinfolk returning home.

In essence, traveling with the three of us to the Balkans is not merely a sojourn; it’s a transformative experience that transcends the boundaries of time and space. Guided by our linguistic fluency, cultural affinity, and boundless curiosity, we embark on a voyage of discovery, weaving together the threads of history, heritage, and friendship that define this enchanting region. Together, we write a new chapter in the timeless saga of the Balkans, forging memories that will linger in our hearts long after the journey’s end.

• Price: 3900€/person, all inclusive (390€ – single supplement)
• Promotional price: 2900€/person available for bookings till June 15, 2024
• Legal & all the relevant financial details will be sent to you if/when you make the booking.
• Non-refundable deposit 900€.