Author: Anja Koprivica
Deep within the heart of the mountains, nestled among the ancient slopes and hidden valleys, lies the enchanting village of Nedajno. Here, nature reigns supreme, and the rich tapestry of flora and fauna whispers tales of days gone by. As you wander through the verdant forest of Milogora, with majestic peaks soaring to 1463 meters, you’ll find yourself embraced by the serene haven that is Nedajno – a radiant gem nestled in the embrace of Piva. Life in this village is a delicate dance of timeless stories woven through the ages, preserving the essence and unwavering spirit of our forebears.
As you approach the village, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking viewpoint that offers an unparalleled vista of the Sušica and Tara canyons, a sight that embodies the sublime beauty of Europe. This quaint settlement bears the evocative name “Nedajno/Unallowed,” rooted in the enduring tale of brothers who resisted the construction of a monastery on this land. Today, the village is graced by a humble church, and in the summer, it is home to about thirty cherished residents. These inhabitants exude a profound sense of pride for the pristine natural splendor that envelops their village, a tranquility seldom found in the modern world. Although winter casts a harsh spell with frigid temperatures and snow, the remaining seasons bestow bountiful abundance and gentle weather.
Amidst an increasingly urbanized world, there is an irreplaceable allure in seeking solace within nature. Nedajno beckons with promises of a retreat adorned with an impeccable mountainous climate, even during the warmth of summer. Nestled geographically between Ivovac to the east and the connecting ridge of Orajevica and Ljeljenko to the west, this scattered village embodies a tranquil haven. To the south, it gently ascends towards the verdant expanse of Burevštan katun, while to the north, it descends into the embrace of Sušica Canyon’s valleys. When beheld from Ljeljenka, these valleys, especially in the melancholy of autumn, evoke a dreamscape akin to that of the moon, casting an unsettling yet captivating allure.
In the tranquil northwest of Montenegro lies Piva, a region graced by the majestic Piva River and its picturesque reservoir lake. Surrounded by the awe-inspiring Dinaric mountains – Durmitor, Golija, Vojnik, Maglić, and Volujak – this land exudes a timeless charm and allure. Nestled at nearly 1500 meters above sea level, not far from the enchanting Sušica Canyon, is the breathtaking village of Nedajno, a gem of the Piva region.
Here, the passage of time is marked by only two distinct seasons – summer and winter, each reigning for a majestic 6 months. As if suspended in a state of blissful harmony with nature, this land bears witness to the rise and fall of civilizations and the resilient spirit of the people of Nedajno. Through their unwavering independence and stewardship of their land, they stood against the Ottomans, steadfast in their refusal to yield. Their story stands as a testament to the indomitable character and fortitude of the Nedajno people. The ancestors of today’s sodalities – Koprivica, Žarković, Šarac, Mazić, Ušćumlić, Baturan, and Davidović – stayed there because of existential interests stronger than Durmitor’s snow. The name of the village was first mentioned in 1866 when it had only eleven houses.
The sacred woods of Milogora stand as an enduring ode to the untamed magnificence of nature. Towering pines and firs preside like stoic sentinels over a sanctuary of tranquility. Above, ancient oaks and graceful beeches weave a lofty canopy, offering respite from the fervent embrace of summer. Below, the meadows erupt with an exuberant display of untamed blooms, where lilies and mountain poppies intermingle to adorn the landscape with an incomparable allure. Amidst this idyllic scene, an abundance of wild berries beckon, inviting wanderers to savor the sweet treasures offered by blueberries, wild strawberries, and raspberries. Meanwhile, within the depths of these forested realms, roe deer, deer, and wild boar roam freely, while the reclusive peaks occasionally reveal the fleeting presence of a wolf or a bear.
Nestled in the embrace of unspoiled nature and steeped in a rich cultural legacy, Nedajno beckons with its abundant tourist allure. This idyllic village offers a sanctuary for those in search of tranquility, far removed from the bustle of city life. Its pristine natural splendor draws in wanderers, cyclists, and admirers of the great outdoors, who may delve further into their sojourn along the enchanting Durmitor Ring. The quaint village church, erected by the hands of locals, stands as a testament to the village’s enduring history and spiritual heritage. Legends and valiant tales of Nedajno’s inhabitants lend an evocative cultural background ripe for the hosting of cultural festivities. Amidst the challenging winter season, Nedajno is transformed into a vision of snow-draped landscapes, a haven for winter sports aficionados and aficionados of scenic photography. In recent years, visitors have had the unique opportunity to partake in the enchanting tale of Nedajno firsthand by taking respite in century-old cottages available for rent. These rustic abodes, meticulously preserved, afford an authentic glimpse into village life, allowing guests to bask in the raw beauty and unwavering spirit of this untamed locale, cocooned by nature’s formidable embrace.
The story of the famous song “Pivljanka/The Woman of Piva” originates from this village and carries deep sadness and emotions. “Pivljanka” is dedicated to Vinka Koprivica, a 21-year-old girl. Unfortunately, Vinka suffered from a rare disease of peripheral blood vessels, which took over her youth and life. The poignant tale of Vinka’s tragic destiny stirred the heart of her brother, Momo Koprivica, compelling him to pen a profoundly moving text, which later served as the lyrical foundation for a timeless melody. The evocative music, crafted by the talented Božidar Ivanišević, intertwined seamlessly with the poignant verses, creating a song of unparalleled emotional depth. Upon its debut at the Ilidža festival in 1967, “Pivljanka” swiftly captivated the hearts of both the audience and the esteemed jury, securing its place as the festival’s most cherished gem.
The ethereal song “Pivljanka”, with its unparalleled originality, has remained unrivaled and etched its place as the festival’s crowning jewel. Over the years, it has transcended its origins to become an irreplaceable part of local tradition, weaving a tapestry of emotions and memories that endure across generations. Each haunting note of “Pivljanka” breathes life into recollections of Vinka and the enduring love of her family, eternally preserving her memory through its tender lyrics and soul-stirring melody.
Nedajno is a real gem of untouched nature, a place where legend and reality intertwine in a harmonious symphony of beauty and peace. Its rich tradition hides many more beauties, and one should come and visit to experience all the charms and historical heritage that this area offers.