THE KRAJINA BEAUTY RETURNS TO THE REGIONAL SPA MAP

The Banja Luka region, known for its abundant thermal-mineral springs and natural beauty, is once again claiming its place on the regional wellness map with the opening of the new spa and recreational complex “Terme Banja Luka.”

PHOTO: Terme Banjaluka

Located in the heart of Srpske Toplice — a designated national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina — Terme Banja Luka opened its doors on September 3, offering indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, salt rooms, massage and hydrotherapy areas, as well as wellness and exercise facilities.

Mladen Šukalo, senior associate at the Banja Luka Tourist Organization, emphasized the significance of the complex’s geographic location. Situated between the city of Banja Luka, the famous Banj brdo picnic area, the Suturlija River canyon, and the Vrbas River valley, it provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities like rafting, kayaking, and hydrospeed.

NAMED AFTER THE BATHS

The area of Banja Luka and its surroundings is rich in thermal-mineral springs that have been used for centuries as public baths — for hygiene, leisure, and healing. In the neighborhood of Srpske Toplice, at the heart of old Banja Luka, warm water flows from eight springs with temperatures reaching up to 35°C.

“There is a belief that Banja Luka got its name from these baths — banja meaning ‘spa’ or ‘bath,’ situated on the river plain,” Šukalo explains.

He adds that within a 20-kilometer radius from the city center are two other prominent spas — Laktaši and Slatina. “Slatina is classified as a hyperthermal spa with water temperatures of 41°C, while the springs in Laktaši and Banja Luka are homothermal, with temperatures around 35°C.”

Srpske Toplice is now a protected national monument, encompassing the area between Banj brdo and the Vrbas River. It includes the thermal springs, covered stone baths known as hauze, and traditional family homes that reflect the historical spa culture of the region.

A UNIQUE TRADITION

For generations, residents of Banja Luka and surrounding areas have embraced the use of public baths, not only for hygiene but also for healing purposes. The thermal-mineral waters of Srpske Toplice are sulfate-, chloride-, and earth-alkaline-rich, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35°C. These waters are believed to help treat rheumatism, neuralgia, and various skin conditions.

“What makes this even more unique is the private use of spring water in traditional covered baths — a custom that’s rarely seen elsewhere in the world,” says Šukalo.

The natural authenticity of Srpske Toplice is best seen in its three historic baths along the Vrbas River — Direklija, Šugavica, and Ilidža.

Šugavica was known for treating skin diseases. A small structure once stood there but was demolished after WWII.

Direklija, carved into rock and resembling a cave, got its name from the stone pillars (direci) that once framed its entrance.

Ilidža, or Queen’s Ilidža, is the most well-known and is located on the Vrbas riverbank beneath a rare population of the endemic fern Maidenhair (Adiantum capillus-veneris).

FROM THE ROMANS TO MODERN TIMES

According to Šukalo, the thermal springs in Srpske Toplice were used as far back as Roman times. Archaeologists have found bronze coins from both the Roman Republic and Empire, suggesting a tradition of throwing coins into the springs as offerings for health or divine favor.

The site of present-day Srpske Toplice was once home to the medieval city of Banja Luka, and later became an Ottoman center that preserved the spa culture. During the Austro-Hungarian period, a military bath was built here, followed by a modern recreational spa center in the 1980s.

While the Romans used springs on the right bank of the Vrbas, the left bank was part of an ancient road connecting the Roman provinces of Dalmatia and Pannonia (Salona to Servitium).

RARE FERN AND NATURAL WONDER

Above the Queen’s Ilidža spa grows Maidenhair, a rare, protected fern species with delicate fan-shaped leaves and long black stalks resembling strands of hair. Known also as Lady’s Hair or Water Fern, it thrives in specific microclimates, like those near thermal waters in Srpske Toplice and Višegrad.

Though found worldwide, its local population is small and legally protected under the highest level of conservation in Republika Srpska — a natural wonder with deep roots in local folklore.