The Lasting Effects of the Yugoslavian Civil War
A story in picture form
If you got a chance to read my article Tales from the Balkans, I tried to give an overview of what the Balkans are really like these days. A once unified yet presently strongly disunited people torn by politics, religion, and ethnicity. The Balkans is home to beautiful Adriatic coastlines, mountainous interiors, and a colorful history. I am not sure if I adequately captured the feeling of the Balkans in my first article, there are some things you just cannot describe with words. For those who read into it, the Balkans is a mysterious region of Eastern Europe that has been at the cusp of some of history’s greatest empires. Most recently it, mainly consisting of the former Yugoslavian state, was tragically ripped apart and segmented by race and religion. The Balkan War has long since ended, but its effects linger to this day.
Old Harbor Dubrovnik, Croatia. There are scenes from this harbor literally on fire from the War. All the ships that were docked during that time were burnt by the Serbian army.
Old Harbor has recovered and is still an integral part of Dubrovnik. One can watch fishermen sail out daily for their catch. Sailors set out to see, or even tours to the local Lokrum island.
Overlooking Dubrovnik Croatia is one of my fondest memories of the trip. For some reason, it is exactly what I had picture the Mediterranean to look like (although it was technically the Adriatic, but…). The coast was absolutely breathtaking. Dubrovnik also hosted some of the most beautiful sunsets that I have ever seen.
Wow. What a great story/photos. Amazing what doesn’t heal after a war.
Many thanks Lane! It is so hard to describe what you see in person. I hope I did ok. The Balkans are beautiful and consist of a really interesting region to visit.
Great photos! I didn’t think it was possible, but thanks to you I am officially even more excited to be visiting the Balkans later this year.
Glad that I could inspire you Kate. The Balkans were definitely a highlight for me. My only regret is that I didn’t experience them more. I hope you have a really enjoyable trip, please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need some advice for traveling through the Balkans.