The Making of Modern Mostar: A Century of Conflict & Transformation

Sheva’s Making of Modern Mostar walking tour picks up Mostar’s story from the late 19th century during the brief but transformative 40-year period during which the power and influence of the Ottoman Empire declined, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire took administrative control. This tour traverses Mostar’s tumultuous history during the 20th century, the development of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, and its eventual violent dissolution during the Wars of Yugoslav Succession (1992 – 1995) which has shaped the Mostar which you visit today.

Tour price

On request

Length

2 hours

Distance

4 kilometers

Language

En, It, Ba

Intensity

Moderate

Meeting point

See here

This walking tour will explore Mostar and the region’s modern history in detail with historical reference to WWI and WWII. Particular attention will be given to the conflicts which occurred in Mostar following Bosnia and Herzegovina’s declaration of independence in 1992. While much has changed over the last 30 years, evidence of these wars is still visible on Mostar’s landscape and throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Learn about our recent history, leading up to the socio-political context of today, from the perspective of a locally certified guide who has both an incredible foundation of knowledge, but also the first-hand experience of one who has lived much of this history. Not only will you have a better understanding of the complicated events which placed Bosnia and Herzegovina on the headlines of global media but provide you an insider’s perspective that helps to humanize and make sense of this history.

This tour begins in the Old Town, but quickly moves to those areas of Mostar which represent the history, events, and developments of the last 150 years. Together, we will wind our way through the neighborhoods on the outskirts of the historic center, along the Bulevar, and visit some of the iconic architecture and monuments from the last century – all of which help to narrate Mostar’s transformative and tumultuous 20th century.

If you are interested in Mostar’s full story, we recommend you start with Sheva's Heart of Mostar Walking Tour and continue with Making of Modern Mostar! Start with Mostar's earliest development and explore the beautiful traditions, culture, and architecture of Old Town Mostar. The Making of Modern Mostar Walking Tour will pick up from where the cobblestones of Old Town ends...and our journey will continue together through the areas developed over the last century.

If you have any questions about booking Sheva’s The Making of Modern Mostar: A Century of Conflict & Transformation Walking Tour, feel free to contact us.

Length: about 2 hours

Distance: about 2.5 miles/4 kilometers

Intensity: Moderate

Ages: All ages are welcome (children should be accompanied by adult or guardian)

Please note that this tour includes coverage of difficult themes such as war, violence, and genocide.

Meeting Point: in front of the Hamam Museum, Old Town Mostar (unless other arrangements are made)

Please note: this tour covers more substantial ground than the Heart of Mostar walking tour, about half of which is cobblestone. Please wear suitable footwear and, if necessary, bring a cane or walking sticks for support. Your guide will do their best to find shade or cover as well as places to sit along the way.

Inclusions:

Guided Tour of Mostar
Licensed Guide
Supplemental Materials, including historic photographs and maps
Time for questions
Recommendations for local handicrafts, restaurants, cafes, and attractions
Local Taxes

Exclusions: Entrance to local museum or attractions (this can be added to customize your tour). The landscape serves as an open-air museum. Tips for individual guides are not included. If you receive quality service, consider providing a tip.

Tour Price: based on number of tour participants

Languages Available: English, Italian, Local Languages

Group Prices for larger organized international tour groups are available upon request. Multi-day tour providers and group leaders should contact us directly to schedule a tour. Provide us the date of travel, number of persons, and any additional information (i.e. mobility limitations etc.) to help us create the appropriate tour experience for your group.

“Highlight of our trip to Mostar”
“Sevko’s walking tour was the highlight of our trip to Mostar. He is incredibly knowledgable and loves to answer any and all questions about his home. Having grown up in Mostar, Sevko is able to share his personal photographs and stories to bring Mostar’s history to life for those who get the privilege of taking his tour. On top of that you can tell that he is loved by people all over the city as he is stopping to greet friends throughout the tour. His tour lasted 2 hours! The best I have ever taken in a city. On top of that, he helped us in a completely unrelated situation the following day. We asked a lot of him and he had zero hesitation. Do yourself a favor and do not miss this opportunity. Thank you, Sevko!!!!!!”

– Elizabeth DiRenzo (San Francisco, USA)

“Highly recommended for anyone coming to Mostar”
“Absolutely the highlight of our time in Mostar! Sevko was an absolutely fantastic guide. He has an intimate knowledge of Mostar and its history – from ancient times until present day. He was charming and open to questions… Highly recommended for anyone coming to Mostar. You will certainly get a more authentic and informative experience than going with one of the many other tour groups in Mostar. The small size of the tour and the quality of the guide made this the highlight of our entire trip!”

– Robbie Ellenhorn (Washington, USA)