peja

Peja, also known as Pec in Serbian, is a city and municipality in the western part of Kosovo and the administrative center of the Peja District. The city lies on the Lumbardhi River at the entrance to the Rugova Canyon, in the western foothills of the Accursed Mountains. It is one of western Kosovo's major urban centers and serves as a cultural and commercial hub for the region.

Historically, Peja developed as a trade town linking inland Kosovo with the Adriatic coast. The area features notable landmarks from the medieval era, including the Peć Fortress, a hilltop fortress overlooking the city. Nearby is the Patriarchate of Peć Monastery complex, founded in the 13th century, which has served as an important seat of the Serbian Orthodox Church and contains several historic churches and relics.

The local economy has historically included crafts and commerce, with tourism growing in recent decades due to access to Rugova Canyon, the surrounding mountains, and the city’s historic old town. Outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and winter sports attract visitors in different seasons.

Demographically, the municipality is predominantly ethnic Albanian, with minority communities including Bosniaks, Roma, and others. The region has experienced significant demographic and political changes in the late 20th century and its aftermath.

Notable sites in and around Peja include the Peć Fortress, the Patriarchate Monastery, and Rugova Canyon, which together define the city’s historical and natural landscape.