The City on a Grain of Salt
The area of today’s Tuzla began to develop around numerous saltwater springs. The first settlement was a stilt village, and life continued here through all prehistoric and historic periods.
Tuzla is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. Archaeological findings show that salt was extracted here as early as the Neolithic period, making Tuzla unique as the birthplace of Europe’s earliest salt production. Remarkably, these finds were discovered in the very center of the modern city, proving an unbroken line of life from prehistory to today.
Geologically, Tuzla rests on “a grain of salt” – hundreds of millions of tons of rock salt and brine left behind by the ancient Pannonian Sea more than 10 million years ago. The city’s name has always been tied to salt, appearing in different languages and forms throughout history: Castron de Salenes, Ad Salinas, Soli, Memleha, Tuz, and finally Tuzla, which in Turkish means “saltworks.”
Organized salt production began under Ottoman rule in the 15th century. By the 17th century, Tuzla salt was known across Europe, even reaching the court of King Louis XIV of France. The first modern salt plant was built in 1885 during Austro-Hungarian rule, marking the start of industrial production. However, uncontrolled extraction caused the ground beneath the city to sink, a process most dramatic in the 1970s.
Today, Tuzla proudly embraces its heritage as the “City on a Grain of Salt,” blending history, culture, and tradition into its modern identity.
Tuzla – A Timeless and Universal Story
The story of Tuzla transcends time and nationality. In every critical moment in Europe, the Balkans, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the citizens of Tuzla acted with “a grain of salt” (Cum grano salis). During World War II, on October 2, 1943, Tuzla became the largest liberated city in Nazi-occupied Europe.
During the 1991–1995 war in the former Yugoslavia, the people of Tuzla did not divide along ethnic lines. Guided by a mission to protect human rights, they responded to injustice with protection, hatred with love, nationalism with anti-nationalism, fascism with antifascism, and division with shared life.
Amid widespread human rights violations caused by war, Tuzla became a symbol of the defense of human rights and freedoms.
Explore Tuzla
Panonian Salt Lakes
The only salt lakes in Europe located in a city center. Swim, relax, and enjoy mineral-rich waters, water slides, outdoor fitness, and the unique Salt Waterfalls. Awarded the UNWTO Ulysses Award for tourism innovation.
Neolithic Stilt Settlement
Tuzla’s Neolithic stilt settlement, over 7,000 years old, showcases early life and salt production in the region. Built on wooden pillars over marshy land, the stilt houses included hearths, sleeping areas, and tools for daily life. Archaeological finds, including ceramic vessels used for salt extraction, confirm Tuzla as one of the earliest European settlements to exploit salt. The open-air Archaeological Park offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s ancient cultural and historical heritage.
Bingo Zoo
Bingo Zoo is located just outside Tuzla, 800 meters from the main Tuzla–Sarajevo road. The zoo complex features a restaurant, playground, football field, walking paths, and a small lake that adds a special charm to the surroundings.
The Bridge with Statues
Built in 1935, Tuzla’s Bridge with Statues features titan sculptures by Franjo Leder, symbolizing strength, stability, and unity. The bridge is both a functional structure and a cultural landmark, connecting the city’s past and present while enriching Tuzla’s urban landscape with its artistic heritage.
Ilinčica Nature Reserve
Explore Ilinčica, a protected natural landscape in rural Tuzla with fossil-rich sands, scenic viewpoints, and picnic spots. Enjoy a 4 km educational trail, adventure park with zip-line and climbing wall, and family-friendly activities—all open Fri–Sun.
House of the Peace Flame
Discover the House of the Peace Flame, a unique center in Tuzla dedicated to peace, tolerance, and civic engagement. Join workshops and activities that inspire understanding, cultural dialogue, and community development.
Connectivity and Transport – Tuzla
Tuzla is the administrative, cultural, and economic center of Tuzla Canton, with around 140,000 residents. The region has over one million people.
- By Road: Connected via highways to Sarajevo, Croatia, Serbia, and the Adriatic coast.
- By Bus: Regular domestic and international routes to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, and more.
- By Train: Links to Ploče port, Brčko, Zvornik, and other cities.
- By Air: Dubrave Airport, 16 km from the city, offers seasonal flights and charters.
- By Ferry/River: Ferries from Croatian ports connect to Italy; the Sava River provides European waterway links.
Distances to major cities: Sarajevo 120 km | Zagreb 330 km | Belgrade 230 km | Vienna 700 km | Rome 1,230 km | Berlin 1,400 km
Accommodation in Tuzla
Tuzla offers accommodation for every budget – from luxury hotels to affordable hostels and private apartments.
Hotels:
- Hotel Grand –offers modern rooms, dining, and conference facilities for both business and leisure guests.
- Hotel Mellain – luxurious accommodation, restaurant, and conference facilities.
- Hotel President–offers modern rooms, a wellness center, a multifunctional conference hall, and an international cuisine restaurant near Tuzla.
Hostels & Guesthouses:
- Eleven Elf – Apartment accommodates 4 guests with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen, dining area, balcony with panoramic city views, and full amenities including TV, cable, and free Wi-Fi.
- Luxury Apartment with a stunning view –near Panonska Salt Lakes, offers a modern one-bedroom stay with panoramic city views, full amenities, free Wi-Fi, parking, and easy access to shops, restaurants, and a spa.
Restaurants in Tuzla
Tuzla is known for its diverse gastronomy – from traditional Bosnian dishes to international cuisine.
Traditional & Bosnian Cuisine:
- Restoran Panonika – local dishes with a view of the Pannonian Lakes.
- Restoran KVIN– offers a modern, cozy space with carefully prepared dishes and a wide selection of wines.
- Mama Mia Origins Steak – candlelit ambiance, offering expertly prepared dry-aged meats and an extensive wine selection for a refined yet welcoming dining experience.
International Cuisine & Cafés:
- Wint Lounge Bar – offers a luxurious ambiance inspired by Viennese cafés, excellent service, a wide selection of drinks and cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
- Dolce Vita – Welcome to our little oasis of sweet delights, located in the heart of the city! Our pastry shop, with the unique touch of its passionate owner, offers an unforgettable experience of sweet perfection.
- Sloboda Caffe Bar –has become a must-visit gathering spot for young people all year round! This café is synonymous with enjoyment, great music, and unforgettable social experiences.
Tuzla offers a comfortable stay, diverse cuisine, and a rich cultural-historical experience, making every visit to the city an unforgettable one.
If you want to learn more about us, come and visit us here.