Bridge on the Neretva, Jablanica

The Bridge on the Neretva, situated in the quaint town of Jablanica in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a poignant historical landmark that tells a tale of wartime resilience and strategy. This bridge, now partly destroyed, was a crucial site during World War II's Battle for the Neretva, also known as the Battle of the Wounded.

The original structure, which spanned the emerald waters of the Neretva River, was intentionally demolished in 1943 by Yugoslav Partisans in a tactical effort to halt the advance of Axis forces. This act of self-sabotage also aimed to protect a large group of Partisan wounded being evacuated across the river. The event has been immortalized in the 1969 Yugoslav film "Battle of Neretva," which brought the bridge's story to an international audience.

Today, visitors to Jablanica can explore the remains of the Bridge on the Neretva, which serves as a solemn reminder of the region's turbulent past. The site is accessible and provides an evocative backdrop for those interested in World War II history and the strategic battles that were fought across the Balkans. The remaining fragments of the bridge, juxtaposed against the natural beauty of the Neretva River, create a picturesque yet haunting scene.

The bridge's remnants are not only a historical point of interest but also a symbol of sacrifice and the strategic complexities of wartime maneuvers. While in Jablanica, tourists can also visit the nearby museum dedicated to the Battle of the Neretva to gain a deeper understanding of this significant event and its impact on the outcome of the war in Yugoslavia.