The History of Kolasin
Kolasin is a historic Montenegrin town founded in the 17th century by the Ottoman Turks, known for its turbulent past involving 23 changes of control and significant roles in liberation struggles, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Origins and Early History
The History of Kolasin begins with its founding by the Turks in the 17th century, who ruled the area and left a preserved part of the Turkish town that testifies to their presence. The town’s name derives from the title “kolazi,” meaning a lower-rank foreman or lieutenant. Over three centuries, the History of Kolasin mirrors that of many Montenegrin towns, frequently shifting from occupier to liberator. Indeed, this small town changed hands 23 times, facing destruction and awaiting final liberation in ruins. Tribes from Rovci and Moraca played a special role in its creation, endurance, and liberation fights, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries.
First mentioned as a settled place in 1565 in a sultan declaration, Kolasin started as a Turkish watch-tower tasked with collecting taxes and protecting the caravan road between Podgorica and Bijelo Polje. Moreover, it dealt with rebellions from tribes like Moraca and Rovci. Consequently, by the 19th and early 20th centuries, many citizens moved away due to hard life and constant liberation fights. From 1863, it was part of the Novi Pazar district, though its status as a border town within the Ottoman Empire remained problematic, with Montenegrin attacks often causing damage.
19th Century Developments and Liberation
During the East crisis, Kolasin formally became Montenegrin in 1878, but the handover was stalled. On October 9, 1878, it was officially given to Prince Nikola Petrovic. However, part of the area towards Mojkovac remained under Turkish control, keeping Kolasin as a border town with ongoing conflicts. Montenegrin authorities worked to strengthen influence by involving locals in state affairs, yet intolerance persisted, leading to a wave of Muslim citizens moving north. In 1886, the Montenegrin army advanced north, taking Polja and moving the border to the Tara river.
Some sources suggest the area was called Kolasinovici, giving the town its name. Its strategic position made it valuable to the Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Montenegrin empires. Tribes like Drobnjaci and Uskoci contributed to liberation fights in the late 19th century, enriching the History of Kolasin with tales of resilience and struggle.
20th Century and World War II
Kolasin entered the 20th century underdeveloped, like many towns in the area. The Austro-Hungarian Empire occupied it from 1916 to 1918. After liberation in 1918, decades of relative peace followed, though the town saw little progress. Political fights emerged, with communist parties gaining top votes in 1920 elections. Organized actions by the Communist Party of Yugoslavia began in the 1920s, leading to conflicts with the state regime by 1935. In 1936, local communists like Veljko Vlahovic and Mijat Maskovic went to Spain to aid in the civil war.
When news of Maskovic’s death reached Kolasin, commemorations turned into anti-regime demonstrations. In August 1939, a youth gathering at Ganovaca near Lake Biograd drew 2,000 people, issuing a call for unity against fascism. During World War II, Kolasin played a key role in the liberation fight. From the first days, hundreds took up arms, forming regular troops that fought throughout the war. Many distinguished citizens died, including national heroes like Bajo Sekulic and Vukman Kruscic. Bombed but resilient, Kolasin was liberated on December 29, 1944, emerging as a bright example of anti-fascist struggle.
Post-war, Kolasin cherished legends like that of Italian soldier Mario Riva, who joined the Yugoslav liberation army in 1943 and died fighting Germans. His story inspired the movie “Battle on Neretva,” and locals still honor his memory, adding a unique chapter to the History of Kolasin.
Post-War Development and Modern Era
Before World War II, most citizens engaged in trade and small crafts, with few industrial facilities like saw-mills and a thermo electrical power station. After the war, rapid development transformed Kolasin, with electrification, water works, and education turning it into a modern European town. Rich in natural resources, it had good pre-conditions for growth. In recent decades, Kolasin has focused on tourism, leveraging its natural beauties and intact nature. Today, it remains a busy Montenegrin destination, drawing visitors eager to explore its heritage and landscapes.
Kolasin Legend
Hidden from view, in a breathtaking atmosphere, Lake Biograd and nature admirers share legends about this mysterious hill. According to one, fairies gathered on the thrashing floor, performing dances that intoxicated the living world. Some say their laughter can still be heard at dawn. Another story tells of two brothers fighting over corn shares, leading to a curse that formed the lake. Additionally, monastery Moraca is surrounded by legend, built from yellow stone passed hand-to-hand from Tusine, adding mystical layers to the History of Kolasin.