1 Built in 1566 Stari Most (meaning Old Bridge) became a globally recognised landmark and a national symbol for Bosnia-Herzegovina, uniting the mainly Christian west bank and mainly Muslim east (Orthodox Serbs only make up 10% of the population here). During the Bosnian war, after continuing bombardment from Croat shells, the famous single-arch span tumbled into the swirling Neretva River, embodying for many the lowest point of the war. In July last year the bridge was finally resurrected, symbolising hope for a renewed allegiance.

2 A week after the bridge reopened Ikari, the world’s oldest high-diving competition, was back. For 438 consecutive years prior to the war, divers had leapt the 21m into the river in front of cheering crowds. With no bridge to jump off the event was suspended, but now every year on the last weekend of July, international divers will assume their positions once again.

3 In nearby town Blagaj you can climb to the ancient ruins of the fortress of Herceg Stjepan and explore an ancient Turkish monastery built in the 1500s for Dervish cults

4 In the Old Town on the East bank you’ll find the the Old Bazaar and the quaint shopping street Kujundziluk, where shops spill Turkish handicrafts and artisans busy themselves inside. One mosque, Koski Mehmed-Pasha, is open to visitors. Climb to the top of the minaret for a great view of Stari Most and the mountains beyond.

5 Last week the world’s first statue of Bruce Lee was unveiled in Mostar. It’s an attempt to gel the factional town through their love of the martial arts hero (many children are named after him). To this end Bruce faces North rather east or west so as not to side with the Muslims or Croats.

The essentials

Time from London Five hours (including two-hour bus trip)
Getting there There are a few direct flights from London to Mostar’s airport but it’s cheaper to fly to Split, Dubrovnik or Sarajevo and get a bus.
What to say Dobar most, meaning nice bridge
Price of a beer: £1

– AMY ADAMS