Property and Wealth in Bosnia

A large part of the land and property in Bosnia belongs to the government or religious organizations. Some of this property was donated by individuals for religious or charitable purposes. These lands and assets are managed in trust for the benefit of mosques, hospitals, schools, fountains, and for helping the poor and the sick.

Under Turkish rule, the income from these properties was often stolen or misused. Many officials would take the money for themselves instead of using it to support the intended causes. However, after the Austrian occupation, things changed. The Austrians brought better management and honest accounting, which helped these charitable institutions not only survive but improve. Thanks to this new system, hospitals and schools were expanded, and public welfare increased significantly.

Tax Collection and Government Revenue

The government revenue system was also improved. Under the Turks, taxes were collected in a very unfair and corrupt way. Farmers were not even allowed to harvest their crops until the tax collectors came and calculated how much they owed. Often, they were forced to pay one-fifth to one-third of the crop’s total value. A large portion of this money ended up in the pockets of the tax collectors instead of the official treasury.

Everyone in the country knew about this corruption, and it was seen as a normal part of life. Therefore, when the Austrians introduced a more honest and efficient tax system, the difference was very noticeable and greatly appreciated by the public.

The Unique Charm of Jajce

One of the most interesting and beautiful towns in Bosnia is Jajce. This town has had very little contact with the outside world, so its people have kept the customs, clothing, and traditions of their ancestors from centuries ago. This gives Jajce a historic and colorful character Sightseeing Sofia.

The women of Jajce wear brightly colored clothes and decorate themselves with jewelry made from silver, bronze, and enamel. Much like the Hindus or Native Americans, they wear a lot of their wealth on their bodies.

The men wear white sheepskin clothing, which is worn with the wool on the outside during summer and on the inside during winter. Both men and women often have tattoos on their arms and hands, usually showing religious symbols.

Deep Religious Faith

The people of Jajce are devout Catholics. It is very common for boys and girls over the age of sixteen to have a crucifix tattooed somewhere on their bodies as a sign of their faith. Also, both men and women keep their hair long, continuing an old tradition passed down through generations.