Into Bosnia and Herzegovina: Mostar

It's a short but beautiful drive into into Bosnia and Herzegovina as we head towards our camp at Blagaj, some 15km or so from Mostar. The border crossings around these parts are somewhat confusing as we cross and recross before we finish up in the right country.

We call in at Pocitelj  village with a fort and attractive mosque on the way, which makes a fitting introduction to this mainly Muslem country.

There's a more atmospheric 10 sec mini movie  HERE

We settle into camp and, the next day, we travel together into Mostar old town for a guided mini tour. The old town is both beautiful and fascinating, if a bit of a tourist haven.

Our first view of Mostar

This mosque was, at one time, used as a synagogue once a week. It still bears a Star of David (no prize for spotting).

 We stay on after the tour and venture into the main town and visit an additional 'Turkish house' dating from Ottoman times. 

Although Muslem, the town seems relaxed, with very few women covering their heads in any way. Our guide has a mixed faith marriage, which is certainty not unknown here. Despite the war and radical positions of recent leaders, it seems that the people, at least here, are far more enlightened. 

A privileged place to be.....

The old bridge, Mostar

There are signs of the war damage everywhere and we find it quite a moving experience walking down the main street between bullet-marked buildings, some still shells.

.......

The following day, we explore the local town with fellow travellers, climbing some 400m to see an old fort which provides a fantastic view of the valley.

After lunch, we motor on to see some local sights, including the pilgramage town of Međugorge and the falls at Kravice after which we return to Mostar for an excellent traditional meal to end the day before returning to camp.

Ready for the worshipping hoards

The Kravice Falls

Sarajevo tomorrow, so a new post. See you then.