Discover the Resilience and Beauty of the Church of St. Peter and Paul in Mostar

Nestled alongside the serene Radobolja River and under the shadow of the Hum mountain lies a testament to Mostar's unwavering spirit and deep-seated faith: the Church of St. Peter and Paul. This Roman Catholic edifice, coupled with its accompanying Franciscan monastery, stands as a beacon of hope, a symbol of rebirth, and an ode to the city's resilience.

Built originally in 1866, this majestic structure was governed by the Franciscan friars. Roughly thirty years after the church's inauguration, the adjoining Franciscan monastery graced the city's skyline. However, the serenity of this sacred space was disrupted in 1992 when it faced destruction from the Serbian-Montenegrin bombardment of Mostar. The once-majestic church was left in ruins post-war, its remnants further battered by fire and shells. Yet, in the face of adversity, the spirit of Mostar and its faithful denizens shone through.

With fervor and unmatched dedication, within a mere 35 days, the friars constructed a vast crypt, accommodating 1,200 seats, and by Christmas 1995, the Midnight Mass echoed in its new embrace. The church's rebirth didn't stop there. The subsequent reconstruction took inspiration from the original church, replicating its grandeur, albeit on a larger and more robust scale. By 2009/2010, the exterior of the Franciscan Monastery was also meticulously restored to its former glory.

History intertwines with the present in this sacred space. Relics from the original church, spared by fire and bombardment, are now proudly displayed in the gallery of the Franciscan monastery. Adding to the splendor is the Mostar Peace Bell Tower, soaring at 107 meters, making it the tallest in the region. Erected on the site of the original bell tower from 1866, it houses five preserved bells from 1927 and two newer ones from 2015. Inside, visitors can immerse themselves in texts and photographs depicting the cultural and historical sites pivotal to Mostar and its surroundings.

For those who seek an unparalleled panoramic view of Mostar's breathtaking beauty, the vantage point from the Mostar Peace Bell Tower offers an experience like no other.

Embark on a journey to Mostar and let the Church of St. Peter and Paul and its tales of hope, faith, and resilience resonate with you. Every brick and stone speaks of a city's indomitable spirit, waiting for you to listen.