Međugorje

Međugorje is a small town in Bosnia and Herzegovina that has become a significant religious site since 1981, when six local children claimed to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Since then, this modest town has transformed into one of Europe's most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites, attracting over a million visitors annually.

The town itself is pretty small and straightforward, centered around St. James Church, which serves as the heart of pilgrim activities. The surrounding landscape features rocky hills, notably Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain, where pilgrims climb to pray at significant religious sites. These pathways have been worn smooth by millions of faithful visitors over decades.

Beyond its religious importance, Međugorje represents an interesting cultural intersection in the Balkans. The town provides a glimpse into the complex history of Bosnia and Herzegovina while maintaining its own unique spiritual atmosphere. The local economy has completely adapted to pilgrim tourism, with shops selling religious souvenirs, family-run pensions, and restaurants serving traditional Herzegovinian food.

The climate here is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters, making it accessible year-round, though major Catholic feast days bring especially large crowds. Despite its fame among religious travelers, Međugorje remains somewhat under the radar for mainstream tourism, giving it an authentic character that larger religious destinations sometimes lack.