Vojvoda Lazar Sočica Tower
The Sočica Tower is located in Goranska, about 7 kilometers from Plužine. It was built in the second half of the 19th century by the famous Piva Duke, Lazar Sočica, who also lived there.
The tower is a cultural and historical monument, recognized as an important architectural work.
As a secular and memorial building, it does not follow European architectural styles, but its window openings, doorways, and entrance staircase are notable.
The structure was built with cut stone using only natural materials.
The tower is situated on a gentle rise, described by the renowned Serbian scientist and geographer Jovan Cvijić as having the most beautiful view in the Balkans.
Duke Lazar Sočica (born 1838 in Plužine) was a hero of old Herzegovina and Montenegro.
He was one of the prominent leaders of the Herzegovinian Uprising of 1875, where he distinguished himself as a skilled tactician. King Nikola gave him the nickname “Munjica” for his agility and speed.
Duke Lazar opened the first shops in Piva, sourcing goods from merchants along the coast and in Gatačka. He also organized livestock exports and quickly became the wealthiest man in Piva, which allowed him to act independently, even from King Nikola.
When it was built, Lazar Sočica’s Tower was the largest in Piva and one of the largest and most beautiful in Montenegro, covering an area of approximately 350 square meters. The adjacent lodgings occupy about 250 square meters, while the courtyard, enclosed by a perimeter wall, spans 1,300 square meters.
Today, the tower offers visitors an exceptional glimpse into the cultural richness and historical heritage of the Piva region. In addition to its remarkable historical setting, it also houses a naturalist’s home, representing a unique harmony between man and nature.
The tower has been officially designated a cultural monument, highlighting not only the architectural uniqueness of the building but also the rich history of the surrounding region.
Memorial Complex in pivski doli
On June 7, 1943, members of the occupying “Prinz Eugen” Division, during the third enemy offensive of World War II, carried out a massacre of the local population from the villages of Duba, Miljkovac, Bukovac, Zaborje, Rudinice, and Seljane.
The total number of victims was around 520, including 107 children. The largest number of victims came from the Blagojević brotherhood (about 200).
Among the locals, the story of Jaglika Adžić, a heroine and fighter, is well known. She is remembered for her love, selflessness, and tragic death during this horrific event. In 2017, she was officially canonized as a saint.
The memorial complex was built in 1976 by academic sculptor Luka Tomanović.
In honor of the fallen, a monument was built, which suffered significant damage over time. The Ministry of Culture provided funds for its restoration in 2011, which was completed by the end of 2013.
At the initiative of the Blagojević brotherhood, a chapel was constructed and consecrated in 2006, with the names of all victims of fascist terror in Piva inscribed on parchment.
