Table of Contents
Introduction
The city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina is steeped in history and culture. Strategically located on the Neretva River, Mostar has been an important settlement since the 15th century and contains many architectural remnants of its Ottoman past. While much of the historic city was damaged in the Croat-Bosniak War of the 1990s, Mostar has rebuilt and restored many of its most significant sites. From its iconic Old Bridge to medieval marketplaces and museums, Mostar offers visitors the chance to step back in time and experience the rich history of this region.
Old Bridge
The focal point of Mostar is its iconic Old Bridge over the Neretva River, dating back over 400 years. First built in 1556 under the supervision of Ottoman architect Mimar Hayruddin, this single-arch stone bridge was an engineering masterpiece. Rising 28 meters above the river below, the bridge connected the city’s two historic districts and served as an important thoroughfare. The elegant curve of the bridge’s arch and its slim silhouette made it one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the Balkans.
Tragically, the bridge was destroyed by Croatian bombardment during the Croat-Bosniak War in 1993. Its collapse into the Neretva came to symbolize the breaking apart of the two cultures. Following the end of the war, an international effort raised funds to rebuild the bridge, with painstaking care taken to recreate the original Ottoman construction techniques and decorations. The rebuilt Old Bridge reopened in 2004 and has once again become Mostar’s iconic symbol of unity.
Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque
Just a short walk from the Old Bridge stands another magnificent Ottoman structure, the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. Built in 1617, the mosque has a wonderfully spacious interior decorated with arabesques and geometric designs painted in vivid colors. Visitors can climb a narrow spiral staircase up the mosque’s minaret to take in views of the city below. The mosque complex also includes the Imam’s quarters and a charming courtyard fountain for pre-prayer ablutions. With its soaring minaret and grand entrance portal framed by a shady portico, the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is a classic display of Islamic architecture.
Franciscan Monastery
On the east bank of the Neretva lies another of Mostar’s treasures, the Franciscan Monastery. Founded in the late 1300s by the Franciscan order, the monastery contains a remarkable church with an elegant bell tower and facade. Inside, the Franciscan Museum and Library preserves priceless medieval manuscripts, documents dating back to Roman times, irreplaceable books, and other heritage items. The monastery’s tranquil cloistered courtyard provides a peaceful respite from bustling central Mostar. This ancient monastery remains an active Catholic church and landmark.
Kujundžiluk Bazaar
Once a thriving market during Ottoman rule, Mostar’s Kujundžiluk Bazaar sadly saw intense damage during the 1990s conflict. But this historic bazaar district has risen from the ashes in recent years. Winding cobblestone lanes are lined once more with handicraft vendors, tiny cafes, and old Turkish houses. The smells of grilled meat and spices fill the streets, echoing the bazaar’s medieval past. Visitors can browse silverware, copper goods, scarves, carved wood items, and more as they immerse themselves in the resurrected Kujundžiluk Bazaar.
Partisan Memorial Cemetery
High on the slopes of Mount Hum overlooks the town, the Partisan Memorial Cemetery honors those who died fighting the Nazis during World War II. Set among tall pines, the memorial was designed by famous architect Bogdan Bogdanović. Its dramatic form resembles a fortress, with terraced platforms lined by rows of engraved headstones. A monumental sculpture of swooping birds in flight stands atop the highest point, the Wings of Victory. Despite its somber purpose, the cemetery also grants stunning panoramas over Mostar and the Neretva River below.
Karadjoz-bey Mosque
Nestled in a quiet corner of Mostar’s historic district, the Karadjoz-bey Mosque dates back to 1557. Its airy interior is supported by four enormous pillars, with a façade notable for its single great dome and pencil-thin minaret. Unassuming from the outside, the mosque’s interior reveals ornate Ottoman craftsmanship with rich details carved from stone. Surrounding the mosque is an enchanting medina, or old quarter, with shop-lined lanes and the 16th century Tepa Market. Although this mosque sees fewer visitors than major sites like Stari Most, its beauty and hidden location provide a more intimate glimpse into Mostar’s history.
Bišćevića Ćošak House
For a peek inside a traditional Ottoman home, visit the Bišćevića Ćošak House. Built-in 1635, Bišćevića Ćošak House is considered one of the finest historic homes in Mostar. Saved from destruction in the 1990s, its rooms have been painstakingly restored and filled with original furnishings to recreate the atmosphere of a 17th century Ottoman household. Delicate woodwork, colorful textiles, and copper kitchenware populate this museum, providing a domestic counterpoint to Mostar’s grand public buildings.
Herzegovina Museum
Located in an imposing former bank building from 1908, Mostar’s Herzegovina Museum offers fascinating artifacts spanning the region’s history. The diverse collection includes ancient Roman grave markers, intricate Turkish jewellery, weapons from the Middle Ages, folk costumes, and religious artwork. Visitors can learn about the area’s first Neolithic farmers, Bronze Age cultures, ancient Illyrians, and medieval Slavs that preceded Ottoman rule. But the museum’s 19th and 20th-century cultural exhibits also provide insight into herzegovinian traditions and everyday life.
Spanish Square
At the heart of central Mostar is Spanish Square, a popular hub for locals and tourists alike. Historically known as Elčić Place, it was renamed Spanish Square after Mostar’s sister city of Ronda, Spain. This bustling open plaza is a crossroads between historic sites. Visitors inevitably pass through on their way to the Stari Most bridge or Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. Stop for a strong Bosnian coffee at one of the surrounding cafés and watch people strolling through the square. And don’t miss the quirky statue of Bruce Lee that greets passersby with a fighting pose.
Nightlife
After the sun sets, Mostar comes alive with bars, clubs, and live music into the night. Young locals and tourists flock to late night haunts like Café de Alma and OKC Abrašević for DJs and dancing. Tucked-away basement venues like Club Cargo offer panoramic views and hip hop vibes. Mostar also hosts several major annual music festivals including the Street Music Festival and Mostar Blues & Rock Festival, when residents and visitors come together to celebrate with local bands, regional acts, and international superstars alike.
Conclusion
Mostar is truly a living museum where the past is woven into everyday experiences. Modern cafes and shops now exist side-by-side with ancient mosques, markets, and monasteries. While the Old Bridge may be Mostar’s most recognizable landmark, the city rewards visitors who take time to venture into its alleyways, learn about its complex history, and experience the culture of this historic crossroads region. Mostar’s heritage endures as a testament to the strength of its people.
FAQs
What is Mostar best known for?
Mostar is best known for its iconic 16th century Old Bridge, Stari Most, which elegantly spans the Neretva River and connects the city’s historic Ottoman districts.
When should you visit Mostar?
The best times to visit Mostar are in spring and fall, when the weather is mild. Summers can be very hot. Many festivals take place in summer, but sightseeing may be uncomfortable. Winters are chilly but beautiful.
How many days do you need in Mostar?
Mostar can be seen in 1-3 days. It depends on your interests. With just one day, you can see the major sights like the Old Bridge, Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, and Old Town. For a more relaxed visit, spend 2-3 days exploring museums, nearby sites, and restaurants.
What food is Mostar known for?
Must-try foods in Mostar include čevapi (minced meat sausages), pita bread, soparnik (a savory pie), fresh grilled trout, roasted meats, and Turkish sweets like baklava. The local wine goes nicely with Mostar meals.
Is Mostar safe to visit?
Although it experienced heavy conflict in the 1990s, Mostar is very safe nowadays and welcoming to tourists. Standard travel precautions apply. Avoid poorly lit backstreets at night, and beware of pickpockets in crowded areas. Mostar is safer than many other European cities.