About 45 minutes away from the “hidden gem” city of Mostar is the small town of Medjugorje. This town’s only industry is tourism, generated by the vast amounts of religious pilgrimages that stop there every year. Primarily Catholics, people embark to visit Medjugorje in order to hike to the top of apparition hill, where Mary appeared to a select few in the 1980s. St. James’s Church is nearby, where mass is celebrated in various languages every hour.
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.
Belgrade is the capital of Serbia. Of all the countries I’m visiting this summer, Serbia has received the most surprised reactions. When I told people I was going to Belgrade, the general reaction I got was “Serbia? Why? It’s dangerous and nothing is there.” I understand where people are coming from; Serbia isn’t a typical tourist destination, so not much is known about it if you haven’t gone looking for information. However, I did go looking! And I want to assure you, Belgrade is wonderful. The architectural features are gorgeous, there are tons of green spaces around the city center, and there are great views over the city if you do a bit of hiking. I’m not denying that you should be aware and conscientious in Serbia (as you should be in all countries), but there’s no need to avoid the country. In fact, I’d recommend a visit!
The highlights of my visit to Belgrade include the Danube and Sava rivers, the Belgrade Fortress, the city parks, and some of the imposing yet attractive building landmarks spread throughout the city center. One of the best parts about Belgrade: the primary attractions are all easily walkable! Cardio and sightseeing, double whammy.
Hram Svetog Save is hands-down the prettiest church in Belgrade. A lush green park surrounds the church, complete with a small playground for kids, and benches scattered around to sit and enjoy the shade. The path leading up to the church entrance is lined with fountains. Picturesque!
Unfortunately, parts of the interior of Hram Svetog Save are under construction. Nonetheless, the domes and intense paintings are visible for your viewing pleasure.
To the left of the main church is a smaller building, something of a chapel. The outside was simple, but the inside was incredible! The most vibrant church interior I have ever come across. Every inch of space was gilded or painted, in bright yellows, bold blues, and intense colors.
The Presidential Palace was another wonderful building, surrounded by a park, and bordered by the National Assembly and City Assembly. The winding walkways through the park at the center of these structures was dotted with maple trees, colorful flowers, fountains, and sculptural art.
The National Assembly
The City Assembly
Republic Square is also definitely worth a visit. The square is surrounded by the National Museum and National Theatre, features a compelling statue of Prince Michael (Prince of Serbia from 1839-42/60-68), and is filled with cute cafes and restaurants. There are also frequently events or exhibitions hosted in the square; during my visit, there were a series of humongous robot statues installed.
Pretty fountain in the square
Last, but not least (possibly my favorite part, actually), I visited the Beogradska Tvrdava, or Belgrade Fortress. This massive stone structure is a “Monument of Culture of Exceptional Importance” in Serbia, located on the edge of a cliff-like ridge overlooking the confluence of the Danube River with the Sava River. The fortress dates back before AD 535, and was were the entire city of Belgrade originally resided. Today, the fortress is full of greenery, benches, and an awesome lookout point over the river, surrounded by the fortress walls and dotted with old, original buildings.
Naturally, I had to walk in this area. I survived!
There you have it. The highlights reel of Belgrade, Serbia. Nothing to fear and everything to see!
xox,
Lauren
I could spend weeks exploring the beauty of Greece. Alas, I didn’t have weeks, but rather four days. Nonetheless, I was able to get a taste of Greek culture, history, and delicious cuisine!
I had the opportunity to spend time in Athens and Thessaloniki. While on opposite sides of the country, the cities were remarkably similar. History holds the primary attractions in each city, as do the waterfront ports.
In Athens, my favorite part was my visit to the Acropolis. The hike to the Acropolis provides gorgeous views looking out over the city along the way up, totally worth the climb.
