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Tunnel of Hope: Sarajevo's Lifeline

Discover Sarajevo's lifeline: Explore the historic Tunnel of Hope, a symbol of resilience during the city's longest siege.

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The Tunnel of Hope is a poignant reminder of Sarajevo's resilience during the Bosnian War. Dug by hand beneath the Sarajevo Airport, it served as the city's only connection to the outside world during the nearly four-year siege, providing essential supplies and a glimmer of hope to its citizens.

A brief summary to Tunnel of Hope

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the tunnel can be uneven.
  • Consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the tunnel's history and significance.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit to fully experience the museum and the surrounding area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Sarajevo, take a trolleybus towards Ilidža. Get off at the 'Doji Kotorac' stop, which is the closest public transport stop to the Tunnel of Hope. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the tunnel entrance. A single trolleybus fare costs around 1.60 BAM.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Sarajevo. A taxi ride from the city center to the Tunnel of Hope typically costs between 15 BAM and 25 BAM, depending on traffic and the specific location.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Tuneli 1, 71210 Ilidža – Donji Kotorac. Free parking is available on site. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak tourist season.

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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 1990s. With the city cut off from the world, the Army of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina (ARBiH) devised a clandestine plan to construct a tunnel beneath the Sarajevo Airport, which was under United Nations control. Construction began in March 1993, with workers digging around the clock for four months and four days. Working with pickaxes, shovels, and meager lighting, they created an 800-meter-long passage that linked the besieged city to Bosnian-held territory. The tunnel, barely wide enough for a person to walk through, became Sarajevo's lifeline, providing access to food, fuel, medicine, and other necessities. It also served as a passage for people to enter and leave the city. Today, a portion of the tunnel has been preserved as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the hardships and ingenuity of wartime Sarajevo. Exhibits showcase artifacts from the siege, and personal stories highlight the resilience of the city's residents. A visit to the Tunnel of Hope is a moving experience, providing a deeper understanding of the city's past and the strength of the human spirit.

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