Many solo travelers have dubbed the small town of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a “hidden gem” in Europe. After my stay in this quaint little town, I absolutely have to agree. The town is a contrast between recently rebuilt urban areas and crumbling, broken buildings scattered amongst the bustling streets. In 1992, war broke out within Bosnia and Herzegovina, lasting until 1995. The effects of the war are starkly clear in Mostar; the front line is one of the main boulevards driven on today. While much of the city has been rebuilt, the effects of the war are still visible.

A moving, and yet simple and small, war monument resides in Mostar. A brick painted with the words “Don’t Forget” takes up a corner in the market. Not large and imposing, but the words and monument are powerful nonetheless.

 

Less moving, but incredibly beautiful, the Stari Most Old Bridge resides in the Old Town of Mostar. The bridge is a reconstruction of the original Ottoman bridge built in the 16th century, that survived 427 years until it was destroyed during the war. The bridge crosses the Neretva River, a gorgeous green/blue/teal river flowing through Mostar.

Along the streets leading up to the Stari Most bridge is the Old Bazar Kujundsiluk, an open market with a mix of touristy souvenirs, authentic crafts and jewelry, relics from the war, and knockoff goods. Most things are reasonably priced, and the shop owners are willing to bargain a bit.

 

 

 

Hidden amidst the many shops of the market is the entrance to the Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque, where you can view the mosque, as well as climb to the top of the minaret for a spectacular, 360 view of the city (including the Stari Most bridge!). It costs about 3 euros, and it’s totally worth it.

 

 

There you have it, my favorite parts of central Mostar. The beautiful views definitely make this town a hidden gem!

 

xox,

Lauren