Trgovi i stepen urbanizacije na prostoru Gornjeg Podrinja u srednjem vijeku
Markets and the level of urbanization in the Gornje Podrinje region during the Middle Ages

Summary/Abstract: This paper examines the urban characteristics of medieval market settlements in the Gornje Podrinje region, with particular focus on Foča, Goražde, and Ustikolina. Drawing upon available sources and relevant scholarly literature, the study explores key determinants of urbanity, including spatial organization, the presence of urban elements, and the trajectory of urban development. In contrast to other urban settlements in medieval Bosnia, these markets were distinguished by a pronounced local character in their commercial activities, rendering them unique within the regional context. A pivotal factor in their emergence and evolution was the passage of one of the most significant caravan routes through this area, along which a series of trade centers developed—thus positioning travel corridors as dynamic spaces of urbanization. The aim of the paper is to assess the degree of urbanization of the most developed markets, to present their spatial structure and identify urban elements, and to highlight the specific, spontaneous, and organic course of their urban development, devoid of planned design.

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