Mokra Gora
Zlatiborski okrug
Mokra Gora is a village situated in the Zlatibor district of Serbia, lying on the border between the Tara and Zlatibor mountains and near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. It features a significant altitude range from around 460 meters to the peak of Tara mountain at 1,544 meters. The village is known for its mineral springs, some of which are renowned for their healing properties, and others that are toxic due to high concentrations of dissolved ions from local nickel-rich iron ore deposits. A defining attraction of Mokra Gora is the Šargan Eight, a restored narrow-gauge railway line shaped like the number eight, running from Mokra Gora station to Šargan-Vitasi station, operated by a historic steam locomotive named Ćira. This railway revitalized the village as a tourist destination. Additionally, the ethno-village Drvengrad, built by Serbian film director Emir Kusturica on nearby Mećavnik hill, adds cultural and architectural interest with its traditional wooden houses. The village hosts the "Zavičajni dani Mokre Gore" festival celebrating local heritage. Mokra Gora also contains several Orthodox churches, including the Church of the Ascension of the Lord and the Church of St. John the Baptist. Historically, the village's name derives from a local anecdote about soldiers lighting wet wood fires, hence "Wet Mountain". The economy once included a chemical products factory named Kotroman, which declined after the breakup of Yugoslavia. A small hydroelectric plant is planned to harness local river resources, reflecting sustainable development efforts in the area.
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Tip: The best time to visit Mokra Gora is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is favorable for exploring the mountainous terrain and enjoying the Šargan Eight railway ride. It is recommended to book tickets for the historic train ride in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, as it is a popular attraction. Visitors should also consider guided tours of Drvengrad to fully appreciate its cultural significance. While visiting mineral springs, adhere to local guidance regarding which sources are safe for consumption. Check local event calendars to coincide your visit with the "Zavičajni dani Mokre Gore" festival for an authentic cultural experience.
Interesting facts
- •The Šargan Eight railway is uniquely shaped like the number eight when viewed from above, making it a rare railway layout worldwide.
- •Mokra Gora sits atop one of Europe's largest deposits of nickel-rich iron ore, influencing the mineral content of its springs.
- •The village is home to several Orthodox churches dating back to different historical periods, enriching its cultural landscape.
- •Drvengrad, the ethno-village built by Emir Kusturica, was constructed as a film set and cultural complex, now a popular tourist destination.
- •Mokra Gora hosts the annual "Zavičajni dani Mokre Gore" festival celebrating local traditions and heritage.
History
Mokra Gora's name originates from an event when soldiers reportedly lit fires with wet wood, leading locals to call the area "Wet Mountain." The village lies on the historical narrow-gauge railway route connecting Belgrade and Sarajevo, operational until 1974.
In the 1990s, local enthusiasts revived a portion of this railway as the Šargan Eight tourist attraction, breathing new life into the village.
The area also housed the Kotroman chemical factory, a significant industrial site until its decline after Yugoslavia's dissolution.
The construction of the ethno-village Drvengrad by Emir Kusturica in recent decades added a new cultural landmark to the region.
Place Guide
Šargan Eight Railway1974 (original line closure), restored in the 1990s
A restored narrow-gauge railway line running from Mokra Gora to Šargan-Vitasi, famous for its unique figure-eight shape and operated by a historic steam locomotive called Ćira. It offers scenic rides through mountainous terrain and is a centerpiece of local tourism.
Drvengrad (Mecavnik Ethno Village)Built in early 2000s
An ethno-village constructed by film director Emir Kusturica on the hill Mećavnik near Mokra Gora. It features traditional wooden houses, cultural venues, and serves as a film set and tourist attraction showcasing Serbian heritage.
Mineral Springs
Several mineral springs are located in Mokra Gora, some known for their therapeutic properties due to high mineral content, while others are toxic. The most famous healing spring is called 'Bela Voda' (White Water).
Orthodox Churches
Mokra Gora contains several historic churches including the Church of the Ascension of the Lord, Church of St. Elijah the Prophet, and Church of St. John the Baptist, reflecting the village's religious and cultural heritage.
