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February 28, 2026

Here the water 'flows' uphill, and beneath the hill sleeps a Roman city: Prokuplje as a hidden gem of the south

Just a few kilometers from the center of Prokuplje, on the banks of the Toplica River, there is a natural phenomenon that has been arousing the curiosity of travelers for decades, as well as debates among those who see it for the first time – a place where the water, at least at first glance, flows upstream.

Here the water 'flows' uphill, and beneath the hill sleeps a Roman city: Prokuplje as a hidden gem of the south

TL;DR

  • A natural phenomenon near Prokuplje creates an optical illusion of the Toplica River flowing uphill.
  • This illusion is scientifically explained by specific terrain geomorphology and visual perception, not actual reverse flow.
  • Prokuplje has a long history, with evidence of Roman settlement (Hammeum) and medieval importance.
  • The region was a site of significant events, including the Toplica Uprising in WWI.
  • The area has agricultural importance, with vineyards and orchards, but faces demographic and economic challenges, including out-migration.
  • The tourism potential, including the 'upstream' river illusion and historical sites, is underdeveloped.

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