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Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Tourist Attractions
Bosnia and Herzegovina, a hidden gem of the Balkans, is a country brimming with history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or someone who loves exploring charming old towns, this country offers a diverse range of attractions. From medieval fortresses and Ottoman-era bridges to stunning waterfalls and picturesque mountains, here are the must-visit destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Continue reading “Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Tourist Attractions”Festivals in Mostar: A Celebration of Culture, Music, and Tradition
Mostar, one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities, is not only famous for its stunning Old Bridge and historical charm but also for its vibrant festival scene. Throughout the year, the city hosts a variety of festivals that celebrate music, film, food, art, and tradition, attracting both locals and international visitors. These events provide a unique opportunity to experience Mostar’s dynamic cultural life while enjoying its breathtaking scenery. Here is a guide to some of the most popular festivals in Mostar that you should not miss.
1. Mostar Summer Festival
One of the biggest and most anticipated events in the city, the Mostar Summer Festival is an annual event that takes place in July and August. This festival offers a diverse program of music, dance, theatre, and street performances, transforming the city into a lively cultural hub.
Highlights:
- Live concerts featuring local and international artists
- Theatrical performances and open-air cinema
- Art exhibitions and street performances
- Dance shows and workshops
The festival aims to bring together different cultures and art forms, creating a vibrant atmosphere where people can connect and enjoy the creativity of performers from around the world.
2. Mostar Film Festival
The Mostar Film Festival (MOFF) is one of the most prestigious film events in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Established to celebrate the best in regional and international cinema, the festival focuses on promoting filmmakers from the Balkans, as well as showcasing international cinematic achievements.
Highlights:
- Screenings of feature films, short films, and documentaries
- Panel discussions with directors and actors
- Workshops for aspiring filmmakers
- Awards for best performances and productions
MOFF is a must-visit event for film lovers who want to experience the richness of Balkan cinema while enjoying the historical beauty of Mostar.
3. Mostar Street Art Festival
Street art has become an essential part of Mostar’s urban identity, and the Mostar Street Art Festival celebrates the city’s vibrant graffiti and mural scene. This festival brings together street artists from all over the world who transform the city’s walls into open-air galleries.
Highlights:
- Live painting sessions by local and international artists
- Guided tours of Mostar’s street art scene
- Interactive workshops for aspiring artists
- Music and dance performances
This festival helps beautify the city while providing a platform for young artists to showcase their creativity.
4. Mostar Blues & Rock Festival
If you’re a fan of blues and rock music, the Mostar Blues & Rock Festival is the perfect event for you. Held every summer, this festival features performances from both well-known and emerging blues and rock artists.
Highlights:
- Live performances by international and local bands
- Open-air concerts under the stars
- Jam sessions and workshops
- A great social atmosphere for music lovers
This festival attracts a passionate crowd and offers a laid-back atmosphere where visitors can enjoy world-class music in a stunning setting.
5. Mostar Sevdah Festival
Sevdah music, a deeply emotional and poetic genre unique to Bosnia and Herzegovina, has a special place in Mostar’s cultural heritage. The Mostar Sevdah Festival is dedicated to preserving and promoting this traditional music.
Highlights:
- Performances by top Sevdah musicians
- Poetry readings and storytelling sessions
- Lectures on the history and significance of Sevdah music
- Community gatherings celebrating Bosnian culture
This festival is an incredible opportunity to experience the soul of Bosnia’s musical heritage.
6. Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series – Mostar
For adrenaline seekers, the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in Mostar is an event like no other. Each year, some of the world’s best cliff divers gather to jump from the Stari Most (Old Bridge) into the Neretva River.
Highlights:
- Spectacular high dives from a historic bridge
- Live commentary and audience engagement
- Competitions featuring the world’s top divers
- A thrilling atmosphere with thousands of spectators
This event not only showcases athletic excellence but also highlights the city’s stunning architecture and natural beauty.
7. International Festival of Author’s Poetry
For literature lovers, the International Festival of Author’s Poetry brings together poets and writers from around the world to share their works and ideas. The festival celebrates the power of words and their ability to transcend borders.
Highlights:
- Poetry readings in beautiful historical locations
- Discussions on contemporary literature
- Workshops for aspiring poets
- Music and artistic performances
This festival fosters cultural exchange and appreciation for literary art in an inspiring setting.
8. Mostar Wine Festival
The Mostar Wine Festival is a paradise for wine lovers, showcasing some of the finest wines from Bosnia and Herzegovina and beyond. The Herzegovina region is known for its excellent wines, and this festival is the perfect place to taste and learn about them.
Highlights:
- Wine tastings featuring local and international wineries
- Food pairings with traditional Bosnian cuisine
- Wine workshops and expert talks
- Live music and entertainment
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking to enjoy a good glass of wine in a scenic setting, this festival is a must-visit.
9. Mostar Carnival
Mostar’s annual carnival is a colourful celebration that brings joy and entertainment to the city. Featuring parades, costumes, and street performances, this festival is a fun-filled experience for all ages.
Highlights:
- Costume parades and themed performances
- Street entertainers and live music
- Family-friendly activities and games
- Fireworks and festive celebrations
The carnival showcases the lively spirit of Mostar, making it a fantastic event for visitors of all backgrounds.
Mostar is more than just a historic city—it’s a thriving cultural hub that hosts some of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most exciting festivals. Whether you’re drawn to music, film, literature, art, or adventure, there’s a festival in Mostar that will captivate you. These events not only showcase the city’s artistic and cultural diversity but also provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with locals and immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience. No matter when you visit, Mostar’s festivals are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ramadan 2025 in Mostar: A Time of Faith, Community, and Reflection
The Significance and History of Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. It is believed to be the month in which the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel).
The practice of fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the fundamental acts of worship and devotion. The fast begins at Sehri (pre-dawn meal) and is broken at Iftar (sunset meal), with the daily schedule guided by the movement of the sun. The fast is not just about abstaining from food and drink but also about spiritual purification, increased acts of charity, and strengthening one’s connection to God (Allah).
Historically, Ramadan has been observed for over 1,400 years, and its traditions have been passed down through generations. The month fosters a sense of unity among Muslims worldwide, as they share the same spiritual journey regardless of their geographical location.
Ramadan 2025 in Mostar
This year, Ramadan in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025, and conclude on Sunday, March 30, 2025. Throughout the city, the holy month is marked by special prayers, community gatherings, and acts of charity.
Daily Observances
Each day, Muslims in Mostar begin their fast with Sehri before dawn and break it at Iftar when the sun sets.
Mosques in Mostar, such as Karadoz Bey Mosque, host special Taraweeh prayers each evening, where long portions of the Quran are recited, fostering a deep spiritual atmosphere.
Ramadan Traditions in Mostar
Mostar has a rich Islamic heritage, and Ramadan here is an experience that blends faith, culture, and community. The city’s Old Bazaar (Kujundžiluk) comes alive with people gathering to shop for traditional Bosnian dishes, sweets, and beverages for Iftar.
Traditional Iftar Meals
During Iftar, families break their fast with dates and water, following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad. Bosnian cuisine offers a variety of special Ramadan dishes, including:
- Begova čorba (Bey’s soup) – a thick, slow-cooked chicken and vegetable soup.
- Sogan-dolma – onions stuffed with meat and rice.
- Pita (Burek, Sirnica, Krompiruša) – thin pastry filled with meat, cheese, or potatoes.
- Tufahija – poached apples stuffed with walnuts and sugar syrup.
Acts of Charity and Community Iftars
Ramadan is a time of giving and compassion, and many people in Mostar participate in Sadaqah (voluntary charity) and Zakat (obligatory charity). Local mosques and organizations arrange community Iftars, where free meals are provided to those in need, reinforcing the spirit of generosity.
The Cultural and Spiritual Atmosphere
Ramadan in Mostar offers a unique experience where history and spirituality intertwine. As the sun sets, the call to prayer (Adhan) echoes across the city from its historic mosques, and the streets fill with families and friends gathering for Iftar. The city’s historic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a symbol of resilience and unity, becomes a meeting place where people reflect and celebrate together.
Ramadan in Mostar is more than just a religious observance; it is a cultural and spiritual journey. The city’s deep-rooted traditions, warm community spirit, and rich Islamic heritage make it a special place to experience this sacred month. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, witnessing Ramadan in Mostar provides an opportunity to connect with both faith and tradition in a meaningful way.
The 23rd Sarajevo film festival
Aki Kaurismaki’s The Other Side of Hope will open the 23rd Sarajevo Film Festival on August 11.
Finnish director Aki Kaurismaki’s film “Le Havre,” which won a critics’ award at Cannes, opened the 17th Sarajevo Film Festival.
“The Other Side of Hope”, for which Kaurismäki won the Silver Bear for the best director at this year’s Berlinale, is a thematic follow-up of sorts to the 2011 film “Le Havre”.
The film premiere will start at 20:30 h at the National Theatre and a half-hour later also at the Open Air Cinema Raiffeisen.
After the screening, the audience will be greeted by actors Sherwan Haji and Simon Al-Bazoon.