The Mostar Bridge
The Mostar Bridge was a very famous and historical bridge before its destruction in 1993 during the war in Bosnia and Hercegovina. The elegant bridge spanned the River Neretva and was designed by the Ottoman (Turkish) architect Mimar Hayruddin. It was completed in 1566 after nines years of building and the surrounding town became a thriving trading centre. The bridge was 29 metres in length and stood at a height of 20 metres, a classic example of a single span, stone arch bridge and was an example of advanced technology in its time. It became a World Heritage site during the twentieth century.
In response to Roddy, i find it interesting how these bridges have a similar shape, whether it be for design or practical reasons. Possibly it was easier to construct like this, or maybe it was just for aesthetical purposes. I am also interested in what you said about reconstruction and substitution. The mostar bridge was rebuilt using some of the limestone salvaged from the riverbed below from the previous destroyed bridge.
The rebuilding of the bridge symbolises the reunification of Mostar and will be part of the healing process for this ethnically divided town. I think i will begin to look closely at York's bridges and the history behind them!
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