Ilijaš, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Representatives: Irfan Salihagić, Samna Durmo, Sanja Zagorac-Jozić
The Municipality Ilijaš, nestled along the river Misoča, holds a rich historical heritage tracing back to the early Middle Ages, evident in scattered necropolises of stećaks, ancient tombstones. The medieval Bosnian town of Dubrovnik, designated a national cultural monument since 2003, reflects past economic endeavors intertwined with Ban Kulin’s approval and the discovery of valuable mines. Its strategic location near the Šija hill’s pivotal crossroads connects Ilijaš to significant political and economic centers like Visoko and Olovo. Despite enduring plague epidemics, Ilijaš saw transformative developments in the 20th century, spurred by Austria-Hungary’s occupation and the advent of railway lines, fostering industrial growth.
Today, the Municipality Ilijaš experiences rapid growth, offering appealing investment opportunities for small and medium enterprises across diverse sectors. Leveraging its experience and tradition, Ilijaš facilitates the application of modern technologies in metallurgy, metal, and wood industries, aided by abundant forests and a skilled workforce. The expanding agricultural sector opens avenues for investment in food and beverage industries, accessing markets in the Sarajevo macro-region and beyond. Emerging as a tourist destination, Ilijaš showcases attractions like the Bijambare Protected Area and the historic Koposići necropolis. Local governance ensures effective administration and development planning, fostering resilience and rejuvenation amidst historical challenges. The local administration along with the community is working on establishing the re-envisioned identity of the town, established on the rich natural, cultural and industrial history.
