Understand

Welcome to the village of Brod! Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Draga province, this vibrant village is home to the Goranci people. With a population of around 50,000, the Goranci have a rich history as peasants, shepherds, and bakers before the turn of the 20th century. In recent times, the Kosovo war led to many Goranci seeking opportunities abroad. Today, they have established a thriving network of candy shops, conducting business internationally. Don't worry about communication barriers - the Goranci have their own language, a fascinating fusion of Torlakian Slavic, Serbian, Macedonian, with influences from Albanian and Turkish. While exploring Brod, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The village's elevation of 1,200 meters offers a unique perspective, with peaks reaching up to 2,200 meters. Over generations, the local people have lived off the land, resulting in a beautifully grazed and deforested landscape. One interesting aspect of Brod's architecture is the ingenious use of cattle and goat manure. In order to stay warm during winter, the villagers dry and pack the manure on the sides of their houses. Thankfully, the majority has already dried, so you won't have to worry about any unwanted smells. As you explore the village, you'll notice several mountain springs that flow down to the plains of Kosovo. Unfortunately, there is some rubbish in these streams, reflecting a common issue in Kosovo. But despite this, Brod remains an enchanting destination waiting to be discovered!

Get in

Looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Prizren? Start your adventure by taking a combi to Draga, where your journey truly begins. From there, you have two options: either take a thrilling taxi ride (although this might cost you a pretty penny) or embark on an exhilarating hike. The trek to Brod is approximately 8 km along a charming and narrow road. Don't worry if you're unsure of the way, just ask a friendly local who will gladly guide you. And if you're feeling lucky, try hitchhiking! You'll be surprised at how quickly a kind driver will pick you up, as cars pass through every 30 minutes. With each step, you'll discover the enchanting beauty of the surroundings, and along the way, you'll even stumble upon refreshing wells with crystal-clear water. Make sure to carry a bottle to savor this natural delight!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Kosovo's national dish is called Pasta e fasule, which translates to "pasta with beans". It is a hearty, vegetarian dish consisting of pasta cooked with white beans, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various spices. The combination of the rich tomato sauce, tender beans, and al dente pasta creates a delicious and comforting meal that is loved by many in the region.

Another popular dish in Kosovo is Tavë Kosi, a traditional baked lamb and rice dish. The lamb is marinated in yogurt, garlic, and herbs before being slow-cooked, resulting in tender, juicy meat. The cooked rice and some of the yogurt mixture are placed at the bottom of a baking dish, followed by layers of the marinated lamb, more rice, and finally more yogurt. The dish is then baked slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together into a decadent symphony of tastes and textures. Though this dish does contain meat (lamb), it is often served with a side of fresh vegetables to balance the richness.

A favorite appetizer in Kosovo is Accre, a spread made from roasted red peppers, eggplant, and various spices. The peppers and eggplant are charred over an open flame until the skin is blackened and then peeled off, revealing tender, smoky flesh. They are then combined with garlic, oil, lemon juice, and other seasonings to create a bold, flavorful spread. Acre is traditionally served alongside grilled bread or crackers as a tasty starter to any meal. This appetizer is suitable for both omnivores and vegetarians alike, as it contains no meat or animal products.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing