Preserving the Podolac means not only saving a breed from extinction, but also safeguarding the traditions, landscapes, and ways of life that have shaped this region

Sometime in the early or mid-Middle Ages, perhaps from the Ukrainian region of Podolia, after which it was named, a breed of cattle arrived in the Pannonian Plain. Over time, this animal would become a defining symbol of the region’s vast steppe landscapes. As the breed diversified into several regional subtypes across Central Europe, Croatia became home not only to the well-known Hungarian Grey but also to the Slavonian-Syrmian type of Podolian cattle, known here as Podolac.

An endangered species

Whether grey or Slavonian-Syrmian (and if you can tell the difference, drinks are on the house!), this indigenous breed has shaped the landscape of Slavonia and Syrmia for centuries. It was once indispensable in agriculture, particularly for plowing fields and pulling carts. At the start of the 20th century, the Podolac made up around 90% of the livestock in Slavonia, Baranja, and Syrmia.

But with the rise of modern agriculture and intensive farming — sworn enemies of our freedom-loving horned beast — the Podolac’s fortunes quickly turned. Over the next ninety years, the breed came close to extinction.

In recent times, however, growing awareness of the importance of native species and the increasing market value of ecological farming have led to a revival of this noble and nutritionally valuable breed. Now, the Podolac is classified as an endangered species, and its preservation has become a priority for safeguarding the biodiversity and cultural heritage of Slavonia and Syrmia.

While driving through Kopački Rit, you might spot a few grazing freely. The breed is now increasingly raised on sustainable farms, where it's used to produce high-quality meat and milk. Beyond its economic value, the Podolac plays an important ecological role, helping to maintain grasslands and prevent the spread of scrub and overgrowth.

Vardarac-style perkelt

The Slavonian-Syrmian Podolac is a true symbol of the cultural heritage and identity of Slavonia and Syrmia. Preserving it means not only saving a breed from extinction, but also preserving the traditions, landscapes, and ways of life that have defined this region for centuries.

A champion of this revival in Osijek-Baranja County is the „Citadela“ restaurant in Vardarac. Head over there to taste the exceptional perkelt made from Podolac cattle raised on the restaurant’s nearby farm. Served with homemade pasta, fresh cheese, and crispy bacon, this Vardarac-style perkelt offers one of the most authentic gastronomic experiences in Baranja — and beyond!

Written by: Katarina Anđelković i Luka Jakopčić