Ugljevik

26/08/2020

Ugljevik - the city with a coal tradition

Ugljevik is known mainly for its opencast coal mine, which has been mined since 1899 (the town was named after the coal mine). The name Ugljevik was actually derived from the word "uglja" - coal. 

You shouldn't definitely miss Ugljevik during your visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city, which belongs to the Republika Srpska, one of the two entities that make up the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is located in the northeast of the country, in a beautiful landscape at the foot of the Majevica mountains and near the town of Bijeljina. The surrounding nature is really beautiful here, and in Ugljevik itself and its vicinity, in addition to the already mentioned surface mine and power plant, there are also many interesting places to see.


The city also hosts several different cultural events. So for lovers of Serbian culture, it will definitely be worth visiting this beautiful place. There is the Rudar Cultural Club, which is always part of all important celebrations. There is a folk dance ensemble KUD Rudar, an orchestra of folk music, and also a section focused on drama or creative authentic activity. However, the folklore ensemble KUD Rudar is always the biggest attraction. Members of the ensemble organize countless events and have participated in many foreign folklore festivals. I was a guide of the Rudar ensemble at one folklore festival in the Czech Republic, and since the Serbs are very friendly, it didn't take long and I went to Ugljevik to visit their famous folklore festival. In Ugljevik, thanks to my friends from the Rudar ensemble, I managed to visit not only folklore festivals in the area but also a surface coal mine. I had the opportunity to see the nearby Tavna monastery, where I learned a lot of interesting information not only about the local religion but also about the history of the country. Besides, I experienced an unforgettable huge 18th birthday party, perfectly organized for perhaps 100 people. The Serbs are celebrating their 18th birthday in a big style, so it was really an experience. Traditional music almost continuously until the early morning, singing, dancing (especially the traditional Serbian dance called "kolo"), piles of traditional food, a giant cake, and especially a lot of rakija, wine, and beer ... and have to mention that all guests were dressed as if they were at a wedding ... Have to say that his country really has its charm ... ;) 


Folk ensemble KUD Rudar at the "Světlovský bál" in 2016