Međugorje

A short history of Medjugorje

Medjugorje, located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has a rich and fascinating history. The town dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement in the area dating back to the Neolithic period. Throughout its history, Medjugorje has been influenced by various cultures and civilizations, including the Illyrians, Romans, and Ottomans.

However, Medjugorje gained international attention in 1981 when six young children claimed to have witnessed apparitions of the Virgin Mary. These alleged apparitions continue to this day, attracting millions of pilgrims from around the world. The town has become a major pilgrimage site and a place of spiritual significance for Catholics.

Over the years, Medjugorje has developed into a thriving tourist destination, offering a range of religious and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Apparition Hill, where the alleged apparitions took place, and climb the Cross Mountain for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

FAQ for Medjugorje

What is the best way to get there?

• By air: The nearest international airport is Sarajevo International Airport, located approximately 120 kilometers away from Medjugorje. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Medjugorje.
• By road: Medjugorje is well-connected by road, and you can easily reach the town by car or bus from major cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

What is Medjugorje famous for?

• Medjugorje is famous for the alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary, which have been attracting pilgrims from all over the world since 1981.

What are five interesting facts about Medjugorje?

• Medjugorje is home to the third-largest statue of the Virgin Mary in the world, standing at 30 meters tall.
• The town has become a popular destination for religious tourism, with millions of pilgrims visiting each year.
• Medjugorje is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Kravica Waterfalls and the Neretva River.
• The local cuisine in Medjugorje is influenced by both Bosnian and Croatian flavors, offering a unique culinary experience.
• Medjugorje is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making visitors feel at home.

How did Medjugorje get its name?

• The name "Medjugorje" is derived from the Croatian words "med" (meaning honey) and "gora" (meaning hill), referring to the honey-producing plants that grow abundantly in the area.

What are some travel tips for Medjugorje?

• Respect the religious nature of the town and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Carry some cash, as not all establishments accept credit cards.
• Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, as it can be helpful when interacting with locals.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.
• Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, as the weather can get hot during summer months.

Do I need a visa?

• Visa requirements for Medjugorje depend on your nationality. It is recommended to check with the embassy or consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina for the most up-to-date information.

When is the best time to visit Medjugorje?

• The best time to visit Medjugorje is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

Are there local customs I should know for i.e. Drinking, Greetings, Public transit?

• Drinking: Alcohol consumption is legal and socially accepted in Medjugorje, but it is important to drink responsibly.
• Greetings: Greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is customary to address people using their titles and surnames.
• Public transit: Medjugorje has a limited public transit system, and taxis are a popular mode of transportation within the town.

What is the time zone for Medjugorje?

• Medjugorje follows Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1.

What are the voltage/plug types?

• The voltage in Medjugorje is 220-240V, and the plug types commonly used are the European CEE 7/16 and CEE 7/17.

What is the currency?

• The currency in Medjugorje is the Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

• Yes, there are ATMs available in Medjugorje where you can withdraw local currency.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Medjugorje?

• Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Medjugorje, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

• ApplePay and Google Pay are not widely accepted in Medjugorje. It is recommended to carry cash or use traditional payment methods.

How much do I tip in Restaurants/bars, Hotels, Taxis, Tour guides, etc.?

• Restaurants/bars: It is customary to leave a tip of 10% to 15% of the total bill if the service was satisfactory.
• Hotels: Tipping hotel staff is not mandatory, but it is common to leave a small tip for housekeeping or bellhop services.
• Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but rounding up the fare to the nearest convenient amount is appreciated.
• Tour guides: It is customary to tip tour guides around 10% of the tour cost, depending on the quality of service provided.

Accommodation in Medjugorje

Find accommodation using map

Booking.com

City Information for Medjugorje

Average temperatures for Medjugorje