Mostar: A Hidden Gem of Jewish Heritage in the Balkans

Nestled in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the enchanting city of Mostar is renowned for its iconic Old Bridge, Ottoman architecture, and stunning natural beauty.

Yet, beyond its postcard-perfect charm lies a story less told but profoundly meaningful—the story of its Jewish heritage. For Jewish travelers seeking a destination rich with memory, resilience, and cultural revival, Mostar is emerging as an unexpected gem.

Mostar, whose name means “bridge keeper” in Turkish, was historically a vibrant trading hub. The Old Bridge—its architectural centerpiece—not only symbolized connection but also anchored a city where Jews, Muslims, and Christians coexisted. In the old city, the colorful facades weren’t just decorative—they helped both locals and newcomers, including Jewish merchants, navigate a town where literacy wasn’t universal.

Mostar, meaning “bridge keeper” in Turkish, was a vibrant trading hub where Jews, Muslims, and Christians coexisted—anchored by its iconic Old Bridge — New York Jewish Travel Guide

The Jewish presence in Mostar dates to the 16th century, when Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain found refuge in the Balkans under the relatively tolerant rule of the Ottoman Empire. Over time, Mostar’s Jewish community grew and flourished, contributing to the city’s commerce, culture, and social fabric. The Sephardic Jews were the first to settle in Mostar, followed by the Ashkenazi Jews in the late 19th century. The Jewish community lived harmoniously with other residents, and there was no segregation or ghettoization. By the early 20th century, the community had built a synagogue and established a cemetery on a hillside overlooking the city—silent witnesses to generations of Jewish life.

During and after World War II, Mostar’s Jewish community faced persecution, exile, and the destruction of vital communal landmarks. The synagogue, originally built in 1889 and expanded in 1904, served as a spiritual and social hub. Though it was damaged during World War II and later demolished, a plaque now marks its location. Meanwhile, the Jewish cemetery—established in the 17th century and among the oldest in the country—endures as a solemn monument, its distinctive Sephardic tombstones bearing inscriptions in Hebrew and Ladino.

A short walk from the former Jewish quarter stands the Bišćević Family House (built in 1635), an exquisitely preserved Ottoman-era home turned museum. Though not Jewish-owned, its intricate woodwork includes a Star of David—an echo of Mostar’s multicultural artistic crosscurrents.

The Jewish community in Mostar is small, with only about 30 members, yet it remains resilient and deeply committed to preserving its heritage. Leading the city’s Jewish renaissance is Amir Kabiri, an Israeli entrepreneur and philanthropist. As president of the Jewish community and owner of the local football club HŠK Zrinjski Mostar, Kabiri has infused energy and investment into Jewish cultural revival. His initiatives—ranging from plans for a new synagogue to support for Holocaust remembrance events—underscore Mostar’s renewed commitment to interfaith dialogue and historic preservation.

This spirit of renewal is also reflected in the city’s broader approach to historical accountability. Street names once associated with the fascist Ustasha regime have been removed, signaling a conscious effort to distance the city from its darker past and embrace a more inclusive future.

Mr. Borna, a local expert in Mostar’s Jewish heritage, leads insightful tours that blend history, legend, and cultural perspective. His storytelling brings Jewish Mostar vividly to life. “In a symbolic and healing gesture,” he shared, “the city has removed street names linked to the Ustasha regime—a fascist, Nazi-allied movement responsible for the persecution and murder of Jews, Roma, and Serbs during World War II.” He also highlighted the significance of Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge, illuminated during Holocaust commemorations in memory of the six million Jews killed. Destroyed in 1993 and meticulously rebuilt using original materials and UNESCO-guided methods, the bridge—crafted from 1,088 limestone blocks with a hollow arch supported by tower sidewalls—is a stunning example of Ottoman engineering and one of the most photographed landmarks in the Balkans.

Mostar, a timeless gem of history and culture – New York Jewish Travel Guide

Each March, the city hosts a Holocaust Remembrance ceremony attended by senior government officials, religious leaders, and international guests. The most symbolic gesture comes as the Old Bridge is illuminated in memory of the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust—a quiet but powerful act of collective remembrance. Ms. Bijavila of Hotel Villa Fortuna, owned and run by the Bijavica family, who also attended the ceremony, told the NYJTG, “This ceremony for the Holocaust is held every March and is attended by the current president of the Jewish community, Mr. Amir Kabiri, as well as the previous Jewish community president and the mayor of Mostar, among many city members and government officials.”

Reviving a Legacy: Mostar Embraces Jewish Heritage Tourism

In recent years, the historic city of Mostar has taken meaningful steps to integrate Jewish heritage into its broader cultural and tourism development strategy. Mostar is now working to ensure that its Jewish history is preserved, celebrated, and accessible to visitors from around the world.

A notable highlight is the official inclusion of the city’s Jewish heritage trail in Mostar’s new tourism program pass. In a promising and inclusive move, the assistant mayor confirmed that this day-pass initiative provides streamlined access to key Jewish landmarks—including the historic Jewish cemetery, the former synagogue site, commemorative plaques, and significant spots in and around the old Jewish quarter. These are integrated alongside other cultural and historical attractions across the city, allowing visitors to experience Mostar’s multi-ethnic legacy in a more comprehensive way.

More than a tourism initiative, the program serves as an educational platform—highlighting Mostar’s long-standing tradition of coexistence among Muslims, Christians, and Jews. By formally recognizing and promoting Jewish contributions to its historical narrative, Mostar positions itself as a city of remembrance, intercultural understanding, and inclusivity.

Marin Ćulijak, Head of the Mayor’s Office in Mostar (left), and Mr. Mili Bijavila, CEO & Managing Director of Fortuna Tours – New York Jewish Travel Guide

During our visit, we met with Marin Ćulijak, Head of the Mayor’s Office, who shared insights into the city’s ongoing commitment to boosting Jewish tourism. A central focus is the future construction of a new synagogue and community center on land already allocated to the Jewish community. This site, strategically located in the heart of Mostar near the Old City, reflects the administration’s intent to reintegrate Jewish life into the city’s urban and cultural fabric.

Ćulijak acknowledged the complexities of the project, noting that securing permits—especially under the layers of local government and UNESCO regulations—could take three to four years. Nevertheless, he expressed optimism that the synagogue will eventually be realized, symbolizing a revival of Jewish presence in the city.

Mostar’s support for this community goes hand in hand with its broader tourism goals. As Ćulijak noted, the city aims to attract one million visitors annually. To this end, Mostar recently launched the Mostar City Card, offering 72-hour access to major attractions for €25, including discounts at partner restaurants and cultural sites.

Our discussions with city officials also explored future opportunities for deeper collaboration between the administration and the Jewish community. There is a shared vision to enhance Jewish heritage tourism not only as a nod to the past but also as a bridge to a more inclusive and culturally rich future.

With thoughtful planning, investment in infrastructure, and a genuine respect for its diverse heritage, Mostar is emerging as a meaningful destination for Jewish travelers and heritage seekers alike—where memory, history, and modern tourism meet.

For Jewish travelers exploring Mostar and its surroundings, a meaningful detour awaits just a few miles southeast along the road to Stolac—the tomb of Rabbi Moshe Danon. A revered 19th-century Sephardic rabbi from Sarajevo, Rabbi Danon embarked on a sacred journey in 1830 to fulfill his lifelong dream of reaching the Holy Land. Though he passed away near Stolac before completing his pilgrimage, he was buried at the very place of his death, in accordance with Jewish tradition. Over the years, his tomb became one of the most important Jewish pilgrimage sites in the Balkans, symbolizing spiritual resilience and the deep roots of Jewish life in Bosnia. Today, it remains a quiet yet powerful testament to the enduring faith and legacy of Bosnia’s Jewish community—an inspiring stop for those retracing the footsteps of Jewish history in the region.

Must-See Sites in Mostar for Jewish and General Travelers

No visit to Mostar is complete without exploring some of its most iconic and historically rich landmarks, each offering a unique lens into the city’s multicultural past and vibrant present. For Jewish travelers especially, these sites deepen the emotional and intellectual connection to Mostar’s enduring Jewish legacy while offering breathtaking beauty and cultural richness.

Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge is illuminated during Holocaust commemorations, honoring the six million Jews who perished — New York Jewish Travel Guide

The Old Bridge (Stari Most) is the most iconic symbol of Mostar and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in the 16th century during the Ottoman Empire, it connects the two sides of the city over the emerald Neretva River. Destroyed during the 1990s conflict and later reconstructed, the bridge now stands as a powerful symbol of reconciliation. During the annual Holocaust memorial ceremony, the bridge is illuminated in memory of the six million Jews who perished during the Shoah—an evocative and solemn moment that brings history into the heart of the present.

The Jewish Cemetery of Mostar is one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in the Balkans, with gravestones dating back to the 1800s. Located on a serene hillside overlooking the city, the cemetery was tragically damaged during the 1992–1995 Bosnian War. Today, it has been partially restored and serves as a sacred place for reflection. Tombstones here offer both Sephardic and Ashkenazi inscriptions, showcasing the diverse Jewish community that once flourished in Mostar. Restoration efforts continue, and visitors can witness firsthand a community working to preserve its memory and honor its ancestors.

The future Jewish Cultural Center and Synagogue, currently under development near the Old Bridge, represents a bold step forward for Jewish life in Mostar. This ambitious project, spearheaded by community president Amir Kabiri, is envisioned as a multi-purpose complex that will host religious services, educational programming, and cultural events. For Jewish travelers, this center will soon become a welcoming hub—an open door in the heart of the city symbolizing Jewish continuity and engagement.

The Herzegovina Museum offers travelers insight into Mostar’s layered history. Exhibits showcase artifacts from various ethnic and religious communities, including the Jewish population. Located near the Old Bridge, the museum places the Jewish story within the broader narrative of Herzegovina’s diverse heritage. For travelers seeking a historical framework, this museum offers context and perspective, illuminating how Jews, Muslims, Orthodox Christians, and Catholics coexisted over the centuries.

The Mostar Puppet Theatre, once the city’s synagogue, was repurposed in 1952 — New York Jewish Travel Guide

The Mostar Puppet Theatre, formerly the city’s synagogue, was repurposed in 1952 when the post-war Jewish community donated the building to the city. Although no longer a place of worship, the building still retains features of its original design and serves as a living monument to the Jewish spirit of giving and cultural contribution. Visitors can attend performances and experience the creative heartbeat of a space once filled with prayer and tradition.

The Partisan Memorial Cemetery, designed by famous Yugoslav architect Bogdan Bogdanović, commemorates anti-fascist fighters of World War II. Many of those honored here include Jewish partisans who resisted fascist forces. The monument’s architectural symbolism and peaceful location offer a solemn tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought against tyranny. For visitors interested in Jewish resistance and the legacy of bravery during the darkest of times, this site is both educational and emotionally resonant.

As Mostar steps confidently into the future, it does so with reverence for its past and a renewed embrace of its Jewish identity. This is a city that doesn’t just remember rebuilding, honors, and invites. For Jewish travelers seeking meaning beyond monuments and connection beyond sightseeing, Mostar offers an experience rooted in authenticity, layered history, and spiritual renewal.

Here, centuries-old tombstones whisper stories of resilience. Bridges—once broken—are lit to remember the six million. A synagogue reborn as a theater now echoes with creativity. And a new cultural center, soon to rise, will once again give voice to Jewish life in the city.

Mostar is not just a stop on a map—it is a living narrative where Jewish memory meets modern revival. It is a place where travelers can feel the pulse of history, walk in the footsteps of ancestors, and participate in the reawakening of a proud and enduring legacy. In the heart of the Balkans, Mostar extends a heartfelt welcome to Jewish visitors from around the world—bridging the past and future, one story, one light, and one soul at a time.

For More Information

Story by Meyer Harroch
New York Jewish Travel Guide

🕍 Discover the Jewish Heritage Trail
Journey through the rich Jewish legacy of the Balkans — from the storied synagogues of Sarajevo to the lesser-known treasures of Mostar and the coastal charm of Dubrovnik and Split. Trace centuries of enduring history, resilience, and cultural contributions

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This unforgettable experience was graciously hosted by Fortuna Tours. Special thanks to Mili Bijavica Jr. and his outstanding team for curating such a meaningful and seamless itinerary.

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