Mostar's centuries-old bridge diving tradition draws Balkan athletes, thousands of spectators

The historic city of Mostar in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomed divers from across the Western Balkans on July 26 for the 460th edition of its traditional bridge diving competition. This event continues to bring together athletes and spectators beneath one of the region's most recognizable landmarks.

A total of 34 competitors took part in the annual contest, diving from the iconic Ottoman-era Mostar Bridge into the Neretva River as thousands of people gathered to watch the centuries-old tradition.

Divers dive from the 16th-century Old Bridge as thousands of residents and tourists gathered to watch the 460th Traditional Diving Competition, one of the country's most recognizable sporting and cultural events in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 26, 2026. (AA Photo)

Historic competition keeps centuries-old tradition alive

The competition featured two categories, with Evald Krnic claiming first place in the head-first event. Dino Bajric finished second, while Ahmet Stupac secured third place.

In the feet-first category, Igor Kazic took the title after earning a perfect score from the judges, marking his 11th victory in the discipline. Harun Bajgoric finished second, followed by Vanja Golos in third.

Held every year at the historic bridge, the competition has remained one of Mostar's best-known cultural events for nearly five centuries, drawing participants from across the region and large crowds of visitors.

Divers dive from the 16th-century Old Bridge as thousands of residents and tourists gathered to watch the 460th Traditional Diving Competition, one of the country's most recognizable sporting and cultural events in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 26, 2026. (AA Photo)

Rebuilt Ottoman bridge remains symbol of unity

Beyond the sporting contest, the Mostar Bridge continues to stand as a symbol of reconciliation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The original bridge, designed by Ottoman architect Mimar Hayruddin, a student of the renowned architect Mimar Sinan, was completed in 1566. It linked the two sides of Mostar and has long connected the city's Bosniak and Croat communities.

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During the 1992-1995 war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the bridge was destroyed after artillery fire by Croat forces. Unable to withstand the bombardment, it collapsed into the Neretva River on Nov. 9, 1993.

With support from Türkiye and other countries, the bridge was reconstructed according to its original design and reopened in 2004. One year later, Mostar Bridge and the city's historic center were added to UNESCO's World Heritage List, reinforcing their cultural and historical significance.

July 27, 2026 08:43 AM GMT+03:00