A place of priceless natural beauty and rich history, Tounj is nestled on the Tounjčica River, the main headwater tributary of the Mrežnica River – one of Croatia’s greatest natural treasures.
Nestled along the crystal-clear Tounjčica River, Tounj is a place of rich history and stunning natural beauty. The river springs from a 300-meter-deep cave beneath the rocky Krpel Hill a site tied to the town’s legendary origins.
According to local lore and historical accounts, three Croatian families; Fumić, Juraić, and Rebrović—once defended themselves from Ottoman raids within this very cave. They are today considered the founders of Tounj.
The town’s name likely comes from the word Htone, meaning “deep water,” reflecting Tounj’s deep-rooted connection with its river.
Tounj was first mentioned in written records in 1481, as a property of Prince Stjepan Frankopan. Throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, it played a key role in defending the region from Ottoman invasions, especially after becoming part of the Military Frontier.
Tounj’s strategic importance grew even further in the late 18th century with the construction of the Jozefina Road, connecting Karlovac and Senj. This period also saw the creation of Tounj’s most iconic landmark: the massive two-level stone bridge spanning the canyon of the Tounjčica River.
In 1897, a new Church of St. John the Baptist was built on the site of the old church, designed by renowned architect Hermann Bollé, the man behind the restoration of Zagreb Cathedral.
The Tounj Region – A Unique Geographical and Historical Crossroads
The Tounj region lies at a unique crossroads between the Peri-Pannonian lowlands and the mountainous terrain of Gorska Hrvatska. Its location where the Dinaric mountain belt is at its narrowest—has long served as a natural passage between inland Croatia and the Adriatic coast. This made the area historically important for migration, trade, and cultural exchange.
Early Settlement and Strategic Importance
Due to its transitional character, Tounj was settled as early as the 7th century. It played a vital role as a mediator between the agricultural interior and the coastal regions. Over time, this strategic role shaped caravan routes, timber transport from Gorski Kotar, and ultimately the development of modern infrastructure.
Regional Identity and Borders
Tounj sits in the eastern part of the former Ogulin municipality, a true “contact zone” between Kordun, Lika, and Gorski Kotar. The region lacks clear natural borders and lies in an area where Croatian territory narrows significantly highlighting its strategic and administrative complexity.
Administrative Status and Local Initiative
Tounj was a municipal center until the 1950s, after which administrative authority shifted to Ogulin. In the 1992 referendum, residents expressed a clear wish to restore Tounj’s municipal status. Although initially overlooked, the effort gained traction, leading to formal support from the Josipdol Municipality and Karlovac County to re-establish Tounj as an independent municipality.
Modern Development
Modern Tounj grew north of the medieval settlement Thovonska-pech. The town’s development was greatly influenced by the construction of the historic Jozefina Road (Karlovac–Senj) and the Zagreb–Rijeka railway, both of which connect Tounj efficiently with the rest of Croatia.
Settlements of the Tounj Area :
Local Associations in Tounj
- Volunteer Fire Department Tounj
- Tounjčica Cultural and Artistic Association
- Heritage Club of the Municipality of Tounj
- Hunting Association “Srnjak”
- Association of Croatian Homeland War Veterans
- Heritage Club of Friends of Kamenic
Stone Houses and Apartments in Tounj
Tounj is famous for its unique two-level stone bridge the only one of its kind in Croatia where many travelers stop briefly to enjoy the view and take selfies. But those who know better understand that Tounj is much more: a place of priceless natural beauty and rich history, located on the Tounjčica River, a main tributary of the Mrežnica River.
This small town in Karlovac County is an ideal spot for half-day trips, hiking, cycling, and exploring historical sites like caves (one being the source of the Tounjčica River), a Baroque chapel, and a charming swimming area. Nearby are also Šmitovo Lake, Sabljaci Lake, Rastoke, and even Plitvice Lakes National Park.
In this sparsely populated area with scattered villages, a growing trend is the opening of tourist accommodations for short-term rental. One young family chose Tounj as their permanent weekend getaway. They bought a modest 80 m² stone house on a large 5900 m² plot, previously neglected and in need of renovation.
The owners, Andreja, an interior designer with five years of experience, and Marko, who handled much of the finishing work himself, completely transformed the house. They added insulation and facade, renovated the terrace and garden area including a pool, parking, jacuzzi, and outdoor kitchen, while preserving original features like the traditional stone barbecue.
Inside, they redesigned the staircase, added windows to enhance natural views, installed heating and air conditioning, and furnished the home with a warm, rustic style using natural materials such as oak beams and stone elements. The layout includes a living room, kitchen, dining area, and bathroom on the ground floor, with two bedrooms and storage upstairs.
The family cherishes the peaceful, quiet surroundings of Tounj, away from the busy island life, and has created an outdoor oasis perfect for relaxation and entertaining. They also see potential for renting the house to tourists, helping to recoup their investment while sharing the charm of Tounj.
Plans and Vision of the Municipality of Tounj
Former Fire Station Building
The Municipality of Tounj has purchased the former fire station from IGM Tounj, which was in bankruptcy proceedings, for 63,000 HRK. The plan is to legalize the building by obtaining all necessary documentation, including construction permits. The vision is to convert the building into a senior care home, with funding expected from EU grants. This project would create approximately 15 new jobs, including cleaning staff and medical personnel.
Ethno Museum and Cave Development
There is a plan to renovate the Ethno Museum and develop the nearby cave in the quarry, with financial support from EU funds. This includes building a walking trail, access to the cave, and installing lighting inside. The Municipality of Tounj has already submitted a joint project proposal in cooperation with the neighboring city of Jajce (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and the Public Institution for Nature Protection of Karlovac County “Natura-viva.” The project has passed the review committee in Zagreb and awaits final approval from Brussels.
Kindergarten Facility
The Municipality purchased a building from the Fumić family for 130,000 HRK. The plan is to adapt this space into a kindergarten, which is urgently needed as currently children from Tounj attend kindergarten in Josipdol. The municipality currently covers about 50% of the total kindergarten expenses, approximately 70,000 HRK annually.
Plan your visit to Tounj and experience the charm of untouched nature and timeless heritage.