As a tourist from Europe or the US, you may find ample options in Sarajevo. It is revered as the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’ and fuses a blend of Eastern and Western influences. Visitors can explore historic mosques as well as marvel at the Catholic cathedrals.
Be it arts, culture, or culinary delights, tourists have a lot to explore when visiting Sarajevo.
The Roses of Sarajevo tour is one such example that helps you re-visit the city’s wartime history.
What Are the Roses of Sarajevo?
The Sarajevo Roses represent the memories of the battles of the city. You can see the unique red marks that symbolize bloodshed on the streets of Sarajevo which lasted for more than three and a half years. As a result, it became the longest siege in modern times. During this time, the city was relentlessly attacked by weaponry fire.
This attack exploded the mortar shells on the pavement; they left behind scars like distinctive craters. After the war, many of these impacted sited were filled with red resin. This creates shapes that resemble scattered rose petals. These “roses” were placed at locations where many people lost their lives. This transforms the ordinary streets into silent memorials.
On the whole, the Sarajevo Roses serve as symbols of loss and resilience. They remind visitors of the pain endured by the city. Also, it stands as the honor of its ability to heal and rebuild. However, there are many stories of the city that refuse to forget its past. This makes the tour must visit for the tourists.
What to Expect on a Sarajevo Roses Tour?
This tour is a deeply immersive journey through the city’s most important war-related landmarks. The journey blends history, personal stories, and beautiful views. This tour takes visitors beyond the usual sight-viewing experience. Here is what you can expect –
[1] Sarajevo War Tunnel
The tour begins with a visit to this site, also known as the Tunnel of Hope. This place was the civilians and the Bosnian Army’s lifeline during the Sarajevo Seige. It is rightly considered as the place that marked the end of the 20th century and ushered in a new era of hope and development. The tour is conducted by veterans and survivors who have borne the horrors and pain of the Siege of Sarajevo that lasted 1425 days. You will understand and come close to experiencing what they and their families felt during those turbulent times. Before making your way into the tunnel, you will also come across more than twenty historical monuments that depict the end of the Yugoslav war.
[2] Sniper Alley
Sniper Alley was once the most dangerous part of the city, where gunmen targeted civilians. Here, you will hear about the famous ‘Holiday Inn Hotel’, the place where war journalists stayed to report on the siege.
[3] Trebević Mountain and Sniper Zones
This place was once a frontline during the war. It offers a stunning panoramic view of Sarajevo. It highlights the main sniper zone where Bosnian Serb forces attacked civilians. You will experience a contrast between its painful past and its present beauty.
[4] Sarajevo Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track
It is the symbol of the city’s glory during the 1984 Winter Olympics. The Bobsleigh track is now covered in graffiti. It stands as an unforgettable reminder of the war. In addition, the site serves as one of the great photo spots of the tour.
[5] Jewish Cemetery and Sarajevo’s ‘European Jerusalem’
The city is known for its multicultural heritage. It is often called the ‘European Jerusalem’ due to different religious community existence. Here, you will visit a 16th-century Jewish cemetery that is one of the oldest in the region. After that, you will see a WWII monument devoted to the victims of Jewish.
[6] Vrbanja Bridge and Sarajevo’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ Story
The Roses of Sarajevo tour passes by Vrbanja Bridge. It is a historical spot where Suada Dilberović and Olga Sučić were killed. They were the first civilian victims of the war. Moreover, you will also hear the tragic story of the ‘Romeo and Juliet’ of Bosnia from our tourist guides. They were a young couple from different backgrounds who were shot while trying to escape the city.
[7] Latin Bridge
This spot is a crucial historical stop. The Latin Bridge tells the event of World War 1, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated. This moment is presented in history and also shows the rich architectural heritage of the bridge.
[8] Yellow Fortress
This site is the final stop of the Roses of Sarajevo tour. Yellow Fortress is one of the finest beautiful viewpoints of the city. At this spot, you can admire the amazing sunset over Sarajevo. Additionally, you will learn about the city’s Ottoman history, which shaped its culture and architecture.
To conclude
The Sarajevo Roses Tour is not just about war history; it is about remembrance, resilience, and hope. Every stop shares some story and views its beauty. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a traveler seeking to meaningful experience, this tour will leave a lasting impression.