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Stari Most (Mostar)

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description Stari Most (Mostar) Overview

The Stari Most is a prominent stone footbridge located in Mostar, Bosnia. Constructed originally in 1566 during Ottoman rule, it represents a key architectural and cultural landmark. The bridge’s reconstruction following its destruction during the Bosnian War highlights its enduring importance to the city and its people. It remains a significant site for visitors interested in Bosnian history, architecture, and the confluence of the Neretva River.

help Stari Most (Mostar) FAQ

When was the original Stari Most bridge in Mostar built?

The original Stari Most ("Old Bridge") was constructed in 1566 during the Ottoman Empire under the orders of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. It was designed by the Ottoman architect Mimar Hayruddin, a student of the renowned architect Mimar Sinan.

How was the Stari Most destroyed?

The Stari Most was destroyed on November 9, 1993, during the Bosnian War by Croatian Defence Council (HVO) forces during the siege of Mostar. The bridge's destruction became an international symbol of the cultural destruction that occurred during the conflict.

When was the Stari Most reconstructed and reopened?

The reconstructed Stari Most was reopened on July 23, 2004, following an international rebuilding effort led by UNESCO and the World Bank. The project used traditional Ottoman construction techniques and local Tenelija stone to faithfully recreate the original bridge.

What is the traditional diving competition from the Stari Most?

For centuries, young men of Mostar have dived from the top of the Stari More into the cold Neretva River approximately 24 meters below as a rite of passage. An annual diving competition is still held from the bridge each summer, drawing competitors from across the region.

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