NoteThe civil war not only caused numerous deaths and casualties but led to the devastation of the country’s historic towns. However, the rebuilding process continues.
Historically, Bosnia & Herzegovina was a melting pot of different cultures, with Christians, Muslims and Jews co-existing peaceably in this area for many centuries. The country’s architecture was diverse and fascinating – beautiful churches and mosques existed in equal measure.
The 500 years of Turkish rule left their trace, mainly in the capital, Sarajevo. The Turkish quarter and the town
center have been largely rebuilt and the city, although scarred by war, is coming back to life. The colorful bazaars are also part of the Ottoman heritage. Travnik in Bosnia was known as the town of the wazirs at the time of the Ottoman Empire. Much of the town was spared in the war and it is still possible to visit the medieval castle. The many-colored mosque near the base of ul Hendek is alleged to contain hairs from Muhammad’s beard.
The reconstruction of Mostar, once a prime tourist destination, is an ongoing process; however, most of the town’s monuments were destroyed in the war, including all the 16th- and 17th-century mosques and the famous Turkish bridge. This bridge was recently reconstructed and opened in mid-2004 to the public. A few medieval buildings and cobbled streets survived the war completely. Banja Luka, the capital of the Republika Srpska, still contains a 16th-century fort and an amphitheater. There are several spas in the Republika Srpska area, most of which are operating again. Bijeljina, Dubica, Laktasi, Srebrenica, Telic and Visegrad all have natural mineral springs and medical facilities.
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