FROM TRADITION TO MODERN TOURISM: THE NEW FACE OF KOČIĆEVO OGNJIŠTE

Kočićevo Ognjište, a memorial complex located on Manjača, approximately 49 kilometres from Banja Luka, stands as one of the most significant cultural and historical landmarks of the Zmijanje region.

PHOTO: TO BL

PHOTO: TO BL

PHOTO: TO BL

Spanning 4,000 m², the site includes the birthplace of writer Petar Kočić and five accompanying buildings, forming an open-air museum that preserves the authentic architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Despite its exceptional cultural and tourism potential, the complex has seen the most activity during the annual Kočić’s Assembly held each August. The Banja Luka Tourist Organization aims to change this by transforming Kočićevo Ognjište into a vibrant, year-round cultural hub—one that preserves tradition, strengthens tourism, and supports local development.

A DEVELOPMENT VISION: NEW CONTENT AND MODERNIZATION

After assessing the current state of the site, the Tourist Organization identified several priorities essential for revitalizing the complex and shaping it into a dynamic cultural-tourism destination.

Infrastructure Improvements

Plans include upgrading access roads, expanding and organizing parking areas—including spaces for buses—and adapting sanitary facilities to make them accessible to all visitors, including people with disabilities.

Introducing New Facilities

A key focus is the establishment or adaptation of areas for a souvenir shop and an information desk, offering authentic Zmijanje crafts, handmade products, and works by Petar Kočić.

Digital Experience

The modernization strategy also includes installing QR codes and multilingual audio guides (in Serbian, English, and German), significantly enriching the visitor experience.

EDUCATIONAL AND GASTRONOMIC ACTIVITIES: ENHANCING THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE

A broad range of activities has been identified as vital for increasing visitor engagement and lengthening their stay at the site. Among them are:

- themed workshops of traditional Zmijanje embroidery

- wood-carving classes

- literary, art, and creative workshops

- presentations and tastings of local gastronomy, including the renowned Zmijanje Cake

These programs could serve as a meaningful bridge between Zmijanje’s rich heritage and contemporary tourism trends.

THE PATH TOWARD SELF-SUSTAINABILITY

The long-term goal is for Kočićevo Ognjište to evolve into a self-sustaining cultural centre financed through its own revenue streams. This includes:

- strengthening cooperation with tourism organizations in the Zmijanje area and relevant institutions

- incorporating the complex into school excursion routes

- introducing symbolic fees for organized visits

These measures would provide stable income and allow the complex to operate as a financially independent cultural venue.

PRESERVING IDENTITY AND SUPPORTING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

The development of Kočićevo Ognjište is centred on preserving cultural and national identity, promoting traditional crafts, enriching the regional tourism offer, and creating new opportunities for the local population. With support from both the public and private sectors, this memorial complex has the potential to become a model of successful integration of heritage, tourism, and sustainable development.