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Tunnel of Hope: Sarajevo's Lifeline

Experience Sarajevo's Tunnel of Hope: A symbol of resilience and survival during the Bosnian War, offering a glimpse into a city's darkest hours.

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The Tunnel of Hope is a poignant reminder of Sarajevo's resilience during the Bosnian War. Built in secret between 1992 and 1996, it provided a crucial link to the outside world, supplying the besieged city with essential goods and offering a passage for people to escape. Today, visitors can explore a section of the tunnel and learn about its vital role in Sarajevo's survival.

A brief summary to Tunnel of Hope

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through a section of the original tunnel, which has uneven surfaces.
  • Consider visiting on a rainy day to enhance the somber atmosphere and gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by those who used the tunnel during the siege.
  • Allow ample time to watch the short film about the tunnel's history and construction, which provides valuable context and personal stories.
  • Book a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the tunnel's significance and the resilience of Sarajevo's people from those who lived through the war.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, take tram number 3 to Ilidža. From Ilidža, transfer to bus number 32 towards Butmir. The bus leaves every 15-30 minutes on weekdays and every hour on weekends. Get off at Tuneli Street and walk to the end of the street to reach the Tunnel of Hope. A single tram ticket costs 1.60 KM if purchased at a kiosk or 1.80 KM from the driver. The bus fare is approximately the same.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sarajevo. A taxi from the city center to the Tunnel of Hope will cost approximately 14 KM. Be sure the driver uses the taximeter. Taxi services can also be contacted by phone.

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Discover more about Tunnel of Hope

The Tunnel of Hope stands as a powerful symbol of Sarajevo's endurance during the brutal siege of the Bosnian War (1992-1996). Facing relentless attacks and cut off from vital supplies, the citizens of Sarajevo ingeniously constructed an 800-meter-long underground passage beneath the Sarajevo Airport, which was under United Nations control. This clandestine operation, known as the Tunnel of Hope, connected the besieged city to Bosnian-held territory, providing a lifeline for food, medicine, weapons, and communication. The tunnel was dug by hand by Bosnian Army soldiers and volunteers, working in shifts around the clock. The narrow passage, barely wide enough for a person to walk through, became a vital artery for the city. It allowed residents to receive essential supplies and offered a means of escape for those seeking medical treatment or refuge. Despite the cramped conditions and constant threat of discovery, the Tunnel of Hope became a symbol of resilience and defiance for the people of Sarajevo. Today, a portion of the tunnel has been preserved as a museum, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the conditions under which it was built and operated. Exhibits showcase photographs, videos, and artifacts from the siege, bringing to life the stories of those who relied on the tunnel for survival. Walking through the tunnel offers a deeply moving and educational experience, providing a glimpse into the courage and determination of the people of Sarajevo during one of the darkest chapters in the city's history.

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