Studenci – Springs, Stećci and Local Traditions

Studenci brings together a landscape shaped by springs, archaeological sites, church history and local traditions. The settlement stretches across the surrounding hills and valleys. The area offers different themes to help you choose your destination: from temporary watercourses after heavy winter rain to medieval Stećci and the annual celebration of Ilina.

Springs and landscape

Numerous natural springs shape Studenci, with small springs found around the fields. Some form temporary watercourses after heavy winter rain. Both the springs and the weather-dependent flow of water are therefore part of the landscape. A particularly clear link between nature and history can be found at Zvizda Spring: next to it is the Zvizda archaeological site, a cemetery with Stećci dating from the 15th century. It lies west of the Studenci–Podgreda road.

Stećci and archaeological traces

Another medieval cemetery lies in Šakići, at the eastern entrance to the hamlet, on the south side of the road. It preserves seven rough slabs or coffin-shaped stones, as well as a gabled Stećak. The site can thus be identified by its location at the entrance to the hamlet and the variety of stone forms that have been preserved.

At Mala Gradina, by contrast, the focus is on the remains of ramparts and the long history of use. Ramparts up to about 5 to 6 metres high remain on the east and west sides. Ceramic finds indicate that the site was used from the 9th or 8th to the 4th or 3rd century BC. The two archaeological sites therefore offer different points of reference in terms of period and structure: in Šakići, the surviving tombstones shape the impression, while at Mala Gradina, the remains of ramparts and the finds provide evidence of earlier use.

Church and local history

The churches also bear the marks of different periods. The sacristy of the first church in Studenci bears the year 1758. The present-day parish church of St Elias was built later, between 1872 and 1879. Those interested in local history can thus distinguish an earlier surviving date on the sacristy from the construction period of the present-day parish church.

Ilina and local traditions

Ilina is celebrated every year on July 20 as the feast of St Elias. The celebration brings together residents and people who return to the village for several days. The programme includes liturgical events, cultural programmes, sports competitions and a folk festival. If you would like to plan your trip around this date, check the specific programme for that year before travelling, as the events may vary.

Cheese and pršut

The history of Studenački cheese production in Dvorine is part of the local food culture. It dates back to 1962, when a dairy was built in Studenci. For Studenački pršut, by contrast, the traditional production method takes centre stage: it is traditionally dried on the bone in the natural Bura winds, cold-smoked with selected woods and salted with sea salt. Together, these two products show different aspects of the culinary tradition: the cheese reflects the history of a dairy, while the pršut reflects traditional processing methods.

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