Mostar: Divided City

During the Bosnian War 1992 – 1995, the historic city of Mostar found itself at the center of fights, first between Bosnianak-Croation and Serbian troops and later between Muslims and Catholics. During the conflict, large parts of the city were destroyed, and many civilians lost their lives. The destroyed bridge of Mostar especially became a well-known symbol of the dispute. It was built by the Ottomans and stood here for hundreds of years, connecting the Muslim and Christian parts of the city before being blown to pieces for unknown reasons. The Mostar bridge was rebuilt a couple of years ago, but many remnants of the war remain in the city, making it an eerie but exciting place to visit. The wounds are healing slowly, but still, Mostar is a visible example of what can happen when once peaceful neighbors suddenly turn against each other for religious or ethnic reasons. Up until today, the city remains divided.