Travnik

Travnik is a town in central Bosnia and Herzegovina serving as the administrative centre of the Travnik Municipality within the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Situated in the canyon of the Vrbanja River at an elevation of about 720 metres, the town lies amid a mountainous landscape that has historically provided natural fortification and a strategic position on routes connecting the northern and southern parts of the country.

The first written mention of Travnik dates to the mid‑14th century, but it grew significantly during the reign of the Ottoman Empire, when it became one of the six main administrative centres in the region. The town’s most famous landmark is the 16th‑century Travnik Castle, a fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is now a popular tourist attraction. Other historic sites include the Safetbegović Mosque and the Old Bazaar, which showcase Ottoman architectural influences.

In the 20th century, Travnik developed an industrial base with steelworks, textile factories, and a sugar refinery. After the Bosnian War, the town’s economy diversified toward services and tourism, leveraging its cultural heritage and natural scenery. According to the 2013 census, the municipality has a population of approximately 34,000, with a majority of Bosniaks and significant Croat and Serb minorities. The local economy remains reliant on small‑scale manufacturing, retail, and hospitality, while the town continues to play a role in regional governance and cultural preservation.