Zvornik

Zvornik is a town and municipality in the eastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated in the Republika Srpska entity on the right bank of the Drina River. The municipality covers an area of approximately 860 square kilometres and includes the town itself, the villages of Radeljevo, Zagorsko, and several smaller settlements.

The settlement has a long history, with archaeological findings indicating human activity dating back to the Neolithic period. During the Ottoman era, Zvornik was an important administrative and commercial centre, and its 16th‑century Ottoman architectural heritage includes the main mosque, the old city walls, and a number of wooden houses. In the 20th century, the town suffered significant damage during the Bosnian War, particularly in 1995 when the Zvornik bridge was destroyed. Reconstruction efforts have since restored much of the historic infrastructure.

According to the 2013 census, the population of the municipality is around 19,000 residents, with a majority Serb population and minorities of Bosniaks and Croats. The economy is largely based on forestry, timber processing, and small‑scale agriculture. The Drina River remains an important resource for hydroelectric power and fishing.

Culturally, Zvornik hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Zvornik Cultural Summer and folk music events. The town’s historic sites include the Stari Muzej (Old Museum), the Drina Bridge of 1833, and the nearby Čavčići archaeological complex. Notable individuals from Zvornik include the Serbian footballer Dejan Kožulj and the Bosnian author Emir Kusturica.