The Banja Luka Pijaca

The covered market in the centre of Banja Luka

Pijaca, I think, when correctly translated, means market place.

The covered market in the centre of Banja Luka, is quite near the castle.

Fresh "home grown" fruit and veg as well as meat and fish and other domestic products (rakija and wine) are sold in abundance.

We are really trying to eat more healthier than we have in the past. Healthy eating can be a challenge here as the diet is heavily meat based. And the breads and cheeses are so delicious.

I think we are luckier than northern Europeans, in that Bosnia and Herzegovina is still an agriculturally based country, despite its history of heavy engineering that was present in the former Jugoslavija.

Most of the factories and production plants from those former times no longer operate since the conflicts of the late 1990’s destroyed them or simply made then redundant.

I would say that no visit to Banja Luka would be complete without some time walking around and exploring, the covered market.

The fruit and veg might not comply to EU shape and size regulations but will be so so much more tasty!

The Pijaca is reasonably big, extremely well organised, and has so much variety of goods for sale.

Oh! and the people are truly friendly and helpful!