SCROLLABOUT MOSTAR
Mostar is a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located on the banks of the Neretva River. It serves as a cultural center and is the largest city in Herzegovina. Mostar is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and its name is derived from the guardians of the bridges on the banks of the Neretva River. The Old Bridge, which along with the Old Town has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2005, spans the Neretva River. The population of Mostar is approximately 113,000 residents.
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HISTORY OF MOSTAR
The founding of the city of Mostar is linked to the construction of two towers in the mid-fifteenth century, and the city’s name first appears in the Ottoman census of 1468-1469. Mostar during this time was described as a small fortress with a hanging wooden bridge. The Ottomans conquered Mostar in 1468, which then had only about twenty households on both sides of the Neretva River. Over the next two centuries, Mostar continued to develop and became the economic center of Herzegovina. During this period, many monuments and buildings were constructed in the Ottoman style, such as mosques, bridges, public baths, and numerous residential buildings. In 1878, Bosnia and Herzegovina was occupied by the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, which left a significant mark on the cultural life and development of the city. Mostar, which until then radiated the oriental character of the Ottoman Empire, began to adopt elements of Central European architecture increasingly under the influence of the Habsburg monarchy. The combination of different styles and cultures, along with the diversity of its people, is what makes Mostar unique. Between the two world wars, Mostar, like many other cities, went through a difficult period, but soon after, it recovered, its population tripled, and trade and agriculture developed and modernized.
What To See And Do In MOSTAR
Old Bridge
The Old Bridge is a famous bridge on the Neretva River located in the heart of the old town of Mostar. The Old Bridge was built in the sixteenth century under the orders of Suleiman the Magnificent and represents a classic of Islamic architecture and engineering. It was destroyed during the bombing in the civil war, but soon after it was restored. In 2005, the Old Bridge was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting thousands of tourists every year who are often left breathless by the fairy-tale sight of this cultural and historical monument gracefully rising above the emerald Neretva.
If you have an adventurous spirit and want something more than just enjoying the view, every year you have the opportunity to dive into the cold Neretva during the famous diving competition. Or, if you are not brave enough to jump on your own, you can always pay local divers who will gladly do it for you.
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Blagaj Tekija
Just a short drive south of Mostar, you will find the small village of Blagaj. Within Blagaj, there is the famous tekija, or monastery, established by dervish monks in the sixteenth century. Nestled at the foot of a cliff, by the springs of the Buna River, the monastery in Blagaj is around 600 years old. Today, the monastery features a restaurant with views of the water and landscapes that rarely leave any guest unmoved.
Biščević House
Biščević House, better known as Biščević Corner, is located on the eastern bank of the Neretva River on Biščević Street. This old Ottoman house, built in 1635, is still owned by the Biščević family. What sets this house apart is the way it was constructed, which differs from everything previously seen in Mostar. The corner of the house extends over the Neretva on two very tall stone columns, making it one of the boldest residential architectural works from the Ottoman era in Mostar. The house is filled with authentic furniture, and the garden is an example of Turkish-style architecture. It is open to all tourists for viewing.
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Outdoor Activities in MOSTAR
Fortica Adventure Sports Park
Fortica Adventure Sports Park is located on the Fortica elevation east of Mostar at an altitude of 500 meters. The main attraction of this park is a 570-meter long ZIP LINE that offers an incredible view of Mostar. The starting point of the ZIP LINE is in front of the mountain lodge and viewpoint where the state flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina is located, and it ends on the steep cliffs of the “Stolac” climbing area, which has 13 marked climbing routes. In addition to the large ZIP LINE, there is also a children’s version that is 20 meters long. Near the park is Mount Velež, with numerous forest trails ideal for mountain biking, and soon, a take-off point for paragliding enthusiasts will be established within the park itself.
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Ruišta
Located just 25 kilometers from Mostar, on the slopes of Mount Prenj, is the mountain village of Ruišta. The village of Ruišta sits at an altitude of 1050 meters and attracts visitors during both winter and summer months. Many winter sports enthusiasts enjoy the village’s natural beauty and ski resorts, especially climbers who wish to ascend Mount Prenj, whose peaks exceed 2000 meters. This mountainous area is the richest in oxygen in this part of Europe and boasts munika, an extremely rare and endemic tree. Staying in Ruišta is particularly pleasant in the summer when temperatures can be up to 11 degrees lower than in Mostar due to the altitude difference.
Rafting on the Neretva
If you want to experience unforgettable rafting on the Neretva River, get ready for an adventure that begins about seventy kilometers from Mostar, in the town of Konjic. Over the last ten years, rafting on the Neretva has experienced a rapid expansion, and several competitions have been organized, but the upper course of the Neretva is primarily intended for tourist enjoyment. Spend a day full of adrenaline while enjoying the pristine nature and rapids of the Neretva.
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WHAT AND WHERE TO EAT IN MOSTAR
The cuisine of Bosnia and Herzegovina is characterized by a blend of Eastern and Western flavors. The culinary scene in Mostar has been greatly influenced by Turkish, Greek, and other Mediterranean cuisines, along with certain European influences during the forty years of Austro-Hungarian rule. Traditional gastronomy is marked by the use of meats such as lamb, beef, chicken, and also fish, particularly trout which is farmed in rivers throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mostar is well-known for its traditional dishes such as ćevapi and burek, and of course, the favorite dessert of many – baklava. Mostar is rich in restaurants that serve various international flavors as well as delicious local specialties.
NIGHTLIFE AND ENTERTAINMENT IN MOSTAR
The nightlife in Mostar is considered one of the best in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is not surprising given that Mostar boasts several famous clubs known throughout the country. Known as the “city of students,” Mostar exudes infectious positivity and youthful energy. There are so many clubs, cafes, bars, concert halls, and breweries that you won’t be able to decide where you want to spend your night, but whatever your choice may be, a great time is guaranteed!
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WHERE TO STAY IN MOSTAR
Mostar offers numerous hotels, motels, apartments, hostels, and rental rooms. Regardless of your budget, Mostar has options that suit every wallet. For those seeking a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere, private accommodations are often a more affordable choice than hotels.
