On our recent trip through Bosnia and Herzegovina, we decided to visit the Battle of Neretva Museum in Jablanica , a small town just north of Mostar, deep in the Neretva River Canyon. This is not our first time in Jablanica, but it is in this museum. And in this article, we are going to present you with a few facts about the actual battle as well as guide you through this unique museum.
Museum of the Battle for the Wounded on the Neretva (another name for the same battle) is a unique historical site that commemorates one of the most iconic events of World War II in the Balkans. This museum not only preserves the memory of the 1943 battle, but it also offers a deep insight into the history of the Yugoslav resistance movement and battles with the occupying forces.
Historical Background: The Battle on the Neretva River The battle this place commemorates is known as the Battle for the Wounded, and it was part of the Fourth Enemy Offensive (also called Operation Weiss) launched by Axis forces in early 1943. The goal was to crush the Yugoslav Partisan resistance that was led by Josip Broz Tito (who later became the president of Yugoslavia). Partisans were faced with overwhelming enemy forces, but still they made a bold decision – to evacuate over 4,000 wounded soldiers across the Neretva River.
To deceive the enemy, the Partisans blew up the bridge in Jablanica, only to reconstruct parts of it overnight under heavy bombardment. This daring maneuver allowed them to cross the river with their wounded and escape the dire fate. The operation is remembered as a symbol of resilience, bravery, and tactical genius. The actual bridge they blew is part of the museum, and it can be seen outside. Well, in fact, the place is the same, but the bridge is the one used in filming the famous movie ‘The Battle of Neretva’. Check it out, it’s a great war movie with a 7.0 rating on IMDB.
The Museum: A Monument to Sacrifice and Strategy The Battle of Neretva Museum in Jablanica was opened in 1978, and it stands next to the ruins of the famous bridge, which still lies half-sunken in the Neretva River as a haunting monument. The museum complex includes:
Main exhibition hall with original photographs, documents, uniforms, and weapons from the battle.Remains of the destroyed bridge , left in place as a striking visual memorial.Reconstructed railway bridge , used in the iconic 1969 Yugoslav film The Battle of Neretva .Outdoor exhibits include military equipment and a restored Partisan bunker.
The museum in Jablanica is also home to various artistic interpretations of the event, including paintings and sculptures that capture the intensity of the battle.
Why Visit the Museum? Visiting this museum feels like a journey through time, and the exhibits are truly remarkable. When you get more information about the whole event, it really becomes clear how important this battle was and what it meant for the region. Here are a few reasons why you should visit this museum in Jablanica:
Historical authenticity : The site is located exactly where the battle took place.Educational value : The museum is well-curated with multilingual explanations and detailed context.Cultural significance : It provides deep insight into the Yugoslav resistance, which is a key element in understanding the history of the Balkans.Scenic setting : The Neretva River and surrounding mountains are a great natural backdrop.
Practical Information Jablanica is located on the main road that connects Mostar and Sarajevo, and if you’re traveling on it, you’ll easily reach the Battle of Neretva Museum. Furthermore, it’s located almost on the main road, so you don’t need to drive far.
Location : Jablanica, Bosnia and HerzegovinaOpening hours (check the latest updates on the official website):April to October: Monday–Friday 8:00–18:00, Saturday–Sunday 10:00–18:00
November to March: Monday–Friday 8:00–16:00, weekends closed
Entrance fee : Very affordable, discounts available for groups and students. You pay only if you want to access the interior part of the exhibition. Visiting only the bridge is free of chargeAccessibility : Easy access by car or bus from Mostar and Sarajevo
Nearby Attractions If you are already traveling through this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, here are a few locations you might want to combine with the Battle of Neretva Museum in Jablanica:
Kravice Waterfalls : A beautiful natural escape, about 1 hour of driving awayPočitelj : A historic Ottoman town worth visiting, located a bit south of MostarBlagaj and Vrelo Bune : A spiritual and natural location located near Mostar. A very famous and beautiful placeRama Lake (Ramsko jezero) : A Peaceful alpine lake surrounded by monasteries and mountainsBlidinje Nature Park: A mountainous highland perfect for hiking and relaxationTito Bunker in Konjic: This is one of the best preserved underground bunkers in former Yugoslavia. A great addition to the museum in Jablanica.Mostar: The largest city in Herzegovina, famous for its Old Bridge over the Neretva and Old Town
Before you Visit the Battle of Neretva Museum in Jablanica The Museum of the Battle for the Wounded on the Neretva is a nice short stop that will tell you more about the history of this region. We’re sure that, once you get all the details, it will elevate your overall experience. Also, make sure you watch the movie too , since it’s one of the most famous Yugoslav movies in which real bombs and real props were used, and a real bridge was blown. Once you see the movie, everything will become even clearer.
Enjoy your roaming through Bosnia and Herzegovina!
