Belanovce: Valley, Forest and History

Belanovce combines its setting in the Cernica Valley with a local history stretching from early traditions to commemorations of events in the 20th century. Above the town, Pašina (Partizanska) Česma is set among oak and coniferous forest. This gives your trip two distinct perspectives: the valley landscape and a named forest excursion destination.

Valley, River and Excursion Destination

Belanovce is located on the left side of the Cernica Valley, at an elevation of 270 to 320 metres above sea level. The Cernica is a left-bank tributary of the Jablanica and runs along the southern edge of Belanovce’s cadastral area. The town is therefore situated on the valley slope, while the river runs along the southern edge of the cadastral area. Both details help put the landscape around Belanovce into context.

An asphalted regional road runs south of Belanovce, connecting Leskovac with Prokuplje via Bojnik. If your trip includes this route, check current road conditions before setting off.

The excursion destination Pašina (Partizanska) Česma lies above Belanovce at an elevation of about 320 metres, among oak and coniferous forest. Here, the focus is on a higher-altitude forest setting, while descriptions of the town are shaped by the valley and its river landscape. Historically, the excursion destination had sports grounds; check their current condition before visiting.

When looking for a holiday apartment in Belanovce, you can compare these highlights: would you like to focus your trip mainly on the town’s history and its setting in the valley, or also include the forest around Pašina in your day plans? This can help you choose a location based on the things you want to discover while you are there.

Local History and Remembrance

Belanovce was first mentioned in 1516 under the name Belanovci. According to local tradition, an ancient settlement is said to have stood on the site of present-day Belanovce. Its church is said to have stood south of Gornja Mahala, at a place still known as Crkvište. Near the former church site, remains of an old “Latin” cemetery are said to have been discovered while working the fields. Belanovce is also said to have existed during the medieval Serbian state. For the late Roman and early Byzantine periods, a route from Cornje Brijanje via Podrimce to Skunae, present-day Leskovac, is reconstructed through Belanovce with a high degree of probability.

Another chapter in the town’s history is the commemoration of the events of 18 February 1942. On that day, Bulgarian occupying forces killed 45 residents of Belanovce and neighbouring villages. A memorial commemorates the victims; a wreath was laid there on 18 February 2025.

Vineyards and cheesemaking are also part of the town’s traditional history. Belanovce once had many vineyards. Its residents were skilled at making cheese, which was in great demand at the Leskovac market. In the town’s history, earlier agricultural traditions thus sit alongside a specific connection to the market.

Discover More Destinations

Brod, Predejane, Lebane, Leskovac, Bojnik, Sijarinska Banja

Back to the overview of the wider region: Jablanica District.