Day 107 - Mostar

Tuesday, October 16, 2018.

Today we decided to spend the day exploring Mostar. In the morning we did our usual: school, breakfast, writing, and research on what are we doing for the rest of the week. We looked at things to do, and we decided to visit the waterfalls at and do some kayaking if possible.

I also decided to do my blog with more pictures and less writing. My reflections will probably go in my book which I have started in two languages but which probably end up being in Spanish because it is much easier for me, plus I'm more creative that way. Please feel free to leave comments or send me emails, just like Virginie always does. I love the comments and they help me write about what you want to know!

Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque

The graves of family members and pious people, right next to the mosque


The Mihrab (niche) is an elegant apse in the stone wall and the structure reflects the voice of the imam (prayer leader) to the people praying behind. The direction of the mihrab is the "Kabah" in Mecca which marks the reference point for all the Muslims around the world during ritual prayers.

We didn't have to take off our shoes or cover our head but we did out of respect.




Mahfili (royal lodge) Some Muslim rulers were assassinated in the past during prayers and therefore, as a security measure, royal lodges were built with a separate entrance. It is elegant in design and decoration.

The dome - in Islamic architecture the dome is usually considered as a representation of the heavens. Patterns on the central part of the main dome with pipelike forms belong to the classical Ottoman period of the XVI century.



Entrance to the narrow stairs


We climbed lots of narrow stairs to make it to the top of the minaret

Breathtaking views


The old bridge represents the union between Christians and Muslims. It is very interesting to hear the Muslim prayers and the church bells ringing all over the city at different times. I wonder if locals even notice.

Mosques and Orthodox church behind.


Sunshine and I had fun taking pictures with fashion magazine-style backgrounds



Hello down there!


We had delicious and fresh pomegranate juice. They have a special machine that squeezes 4 pomegranates at a time. They need 4 pomegranates to get a small cup for $1. 80

Pomegranate season, yummy

In the afternoon, we visited Biščević House which is an Ottoman-style house from the XVI century. Gregory and Daniel went for a walk and a gelato. Sunshine and I went inside and saw how people used to live here. Lovely small museum.

This culture definitely gives importance to big gatherings. Beautiful, colorful rugs and wood tables


The bedroom with a small crib

The main room had an amazing view from the windows.






They had clothes to play dress up. We sure had fun!

Sunshine being silly after being a serious model!


The kitchen - it's actually outside the house!

Beautiful courtyard with fountain

Sunshine and I spotted Gregory and Daniel by the river.


The roots of this tree are painted. It was a decoration of Cafe Luft.



We had cappuccinos and hot choco in Cafe Luft. Definitely come here to enjoy the view of the river and the old bridge!

Wood chickens and pens just like in Mexico!

We love these lamps, we are strongly considering sending some back home!




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