I visited Mostar and marvelled at the Bridge at Mostar in 1964. On a trip that included the Pont du Gard, the Palais des Papes in Avignon, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Duomo in Florence, and St. Mark's Square in Venice, the Bridge at Mostar was then, and is now, the most beautiful and memorable of all of these. In 1964 we drove a small red VW Beetle up along the eastern bank, and, since there were no crowds, no tourists, just stopped and stared, and took in the beautiful sight of this curving arch over a deep ravine and greeny-blue river. We walked, along with many others, across the bridge. There were a few donkeys and carts, lots of women with heavy baskets, and headscarves on their heads, using the bridge as it had been used for so long.

I was so fortunate to see the original bridge, at at peaceful time. I shall never forget the experience.