The Land of Wilderness and Homely Charm
Piva Mountain, a high plateau, extends at an average altitude of 1450 meters. Its borders are defined by the magnificent canyons of Tara, Sušica, Piva, and Komarnica, while to the east rises the Durmitor massif. This mountain is not just a natural gem but also a home where people’s lives and traditions reflect both the harshness and beauty of this region.
Nature in Every Corner
A significant part of Piva Mountain is now protected within the Piva Nature Park. Untouched nature thrives here at every turn, from lush meadows to steep ridges. The middle of the mountain is marked by a series of elevations made of Triassic limestones, such as Badoševica, Veliki Buručkovac, and Planinica. As you climb these peaks, you are greeted by the scent of mountain flowers and the freshness of clean air. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and exploring the pristine nature, while in the winter, the mountain offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
Life Among the Canyons
Life on Piva Mountain is not easy, but it is filled with simple beauty. Winters here are harsh, with heavy snowfall and cold winds. The locals have adapted to these conditions, using snow reserves – artificial snow reserves – to water their livestock and preserve food. The residents, known as Pivljani, skillfully manage their herds and produce homemade dairy products.
Livestock Farming as a Way of Life
On the vast pastures of Piva Mountain, flocks of sheep, cows, and goats are a daily sight. Livestock farming is the main source of livelihood here, and shepherds spend their days caring for their animals. Traditional stone huts, known as katuni, provide shelter for the shepherds and their livestock during the summer months. Here, dairy products are made, and village life temporarily fades.
Stories from the Katuns
Every year, with the arrival of summer, shepherds move to the katuns. These are temporary settlements that allow the preservation of young crops and meadows. Katuns are places where stories are told by the fire, passing traditions from generation to generation. This seasonal migration is a way of life unchanged for centuries, making it a living witness to the past. In the katuns, as the hearth burns, old tales of bravery and endurance echo within the walls.
Agriculture and Haymaking
In early July, haymaking begins, and hay is prepared for the winter. After haymaking, the harvest follows, done using traditional methods. Mountain grains such as rye, barley, and oats thrive on Piva Mountain. There isn’t much fruit, except for a little in Crkvičko Polje, and vegetables like cabbage, onions, and potatoes grow well. Tilling the land is a hard task, still done with wooden plows. During the summer, these vast pastures come to life with the scent of freshly cut grass and the joyful sound of shepherds.
Forests and Climatic Conditions
There are very few forests on Piva Mountain, especially in the southern part. The main forested areas are found in the canyons of Piva and Tara, Sušica, and Durmitor. Winters are very cold, with snow cover up to 3 meters, frequent frosts, and blizzards. Summers are cool and short, but hail often falls, which can destroy the crops. Droughts are also common, further complicating agriculture. Due to the lack of water, livestock sometimes have to be sold, and families are often forced to move to more fertile areas.
People and Tradition
Piva Mountain was once full of life, with many more people than today. Many have left the mountain in search of a better life in the cities or more fertile regions. However, those who remain continue to preserve the spirit and tradition of this area. The residents are known for their hospitality, and their connection to the land and nature is deep and sincere.
Unique Beauty and Hospitality
Walking through Piva Mountain, you cannot remain indifferent to its beauty and spirit. The residents are known for their hospitality, always ready to share stories and products from their region. This mountain is not just a place but a way of life, where nature and tradition are perfectly intertwined. Whether you come for its natural wealth or to experience the local community’s spirit, Piva Mountain will captivate you with its charm and beauty.
