Environmental Influences on Stećci Necropolises in Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Spatial Analyses

Stećci, medieval stone tombstones primarily concentrated in Bosnia and Herzegovina, face significant threats from both natural weathering and anthropogenic activities. A spatial analysis reveals that these necropolises are particularly vulnerable to physical deterioration caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight, wind, rain, and snow, which compromises the legibility of inscriptions and the aesthetic quality of decorative motifs. Additionally, historical conflicts, agricultural practices, and reuse as construction materials have further exacerbated their decline. Despite being inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2016, stećci remain endangered, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced protective measures. This study employs geospatial analysis using satellite and cartographic data, supported by GIS technologies, to examine the relationship between the spatial distribution of major necropolises and natural factors such as geological substrate, relief, and hydrographic characteristics.

Grmuša, M., Golijanin, J., Šušnjar, S., Lukić Tanović, M., & Ivanović, R. (2026). ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES ON STEĆCI NECROPOLISES IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: A SPATIAL ANALYSES. Proceedings 2026, 91–101. https://doi.org/10.18509/gbp2691g