Mostar

The city of Mostar, a city divided by a river, a city where east meets west, a city overflowing with cultures. This is a city that needs to be explored, the old bridge in the centre of Mostar is a highlight and marks the importance of Mostar as a gateway of cultures, religions and peoples.

Around an hour and a half from Dubrovnik by car, Mostar is well worth a visit. The old city is built around the old bridge which was constructed in 1566. In fact the bridge itself gave the name to the city; “most” in Croatian means bridge, so the city owes a lot to its bridge. The bridge spans the Neretva River, a river that you will follow on your journey to the city from Dubrovnik.

On one side of the river you can visit the Old Bazaar, climb minarets, see historic mosques, visit the Turkish House and buy handmade craftwork. On the other visit the old city by the bridge, see glimpses of Mediterranean life and take lunch in a traditional restaurant. A melting pot of east and west all in one city…that is Mostar.

Mostar is a city that was developed on the banks of the wild Neretva river, a city that grew in Turkish rule and was an important trading place from the whole region. Mostar was on the caravan route from the east and the oriental architecture is proof of its connections to distant empires.

Today the city is well established on the tourist route and is within easy reach of Dubrovnik. The historic old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the old bridge has been rebuilt after being destroyed in the Homeland War. Take the opportunity to try some typical eastern delights, food plays a big part in Mostar and its preparation is taken very seriously. Also there are many local handcrafts available that would make perfect souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.

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