Pronunciation: [mˈə͡ʊstɑː] (IPA) 
Mostar is a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its beautiful bridge and historic old town. The spelling of Mostar is phonetically straightforward, with four distinct sounds: /m/ for the consonant sound at the beginning, followed by the diphthong /oʊ/ (which sounds like "oh"), then the consonant cluster /st/, and finally the vowel /ɑr/ (which sounds like "ar"). The emphasis in Mostar is on the second syllable, making it MOH-stahr.
Mostar is a proper noun that refers to a city located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country in southeastern Europe. It is the fifth-largest city in the country and serves as the administrative, cultural, and economic center of the Herzegovina region. Situated on the Neretva River, Mostar holds historical significance due to its diverse cultural, religious, and architectural heritage.
The city's name, derived from the Old Slavic term "mostari," translates to "bridge keepers" in English, emphasizing the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) that spans the river. This famous 16th-century stone bridge, initially built by the Ottomans, serves as a symbol of Mostar, attracting tourists from around the world.
Mostar is renowned for its cultural diversity, which is evident through its mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav architectural influences. The city features a vibrant blend of Eastern and Western cultures, with a rich historical background that includes ancient Roman and medieval Ottoman rule. Within the city, visitors can explore various religious landmarks, including mosques, cathedrals, and synagogues, highlighting its multi-religious character.
Unfortunately, Mostar also bears the scars of the Bosnian War, as the city suffered significant damage during the conflict. However, post-war reconstruction efforts have been successful, resulting in the revival of Mostar's unique charm and vitality.
Today, Mostar is a popular tourist destination that invites visitors to marvel at its architectural wonders, experience its cultural heritage, and witness the harmonious coexistence of different religious communities in this historically significant Bosnian city.
The word Mostar has its roots in the Serbo-Croatian language. It is derived from the two words most meaning bridge and star meaning old or old town. The town of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina is renowned for its iconic bridge called Stari Most, hence the name Mostar, which literally translates to Old Bridge.
