This small Bosnian town became a major Catholic pilgrimage site in 1981 after reported Marian apparitions. Visitors climb Apparition Hill and pray at St. James Church.
Medjugorje, a small town in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has become a significant Catholic pilgrimage site since 1981. Each year, millions of pilgrims visit to climb the rocky path of Apparition Hill, pray at the 8.5-meter-high cross on Križevac mountain, and attend Mass at St. James Church. The town's religious importance stems from reported visions of the Virgin Mary by six local children. Located in Herzegovina, Medjugorje also serves as a base for exploring nearby cities like Mostar and natural wonders such as the Kravice Waterfalls.
Climbing Apparition Hill (Podbrdo)
When you visit Apparition Hill, known locally as Podbrdo, you'll walk the same path as countless pilgrims since 1981. As you make your way up the rocky terrain, you'll see bronze reliefs depicting the Joyful and Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary, installed in 1989. At the top, a statue of the Virgin Mary marks the reported apparition site. Many visitors pause to pray or reflect at various points along the path, often describing the experience as calming or spiritually meaningful.
Ascending Cross Mountain (Križevac)
Križevac, or Cross Mountain, offers another significant climb for visitors to Medjugorje. In 1933, local villagers built a large concrete cross at the summit to commemorate the 1900th anniversary of Jesus's crucifixion. As you ascend, you'll encounter bronze reliefs of the Stations of the Cross. Many pilgrims begin their climb before dawn to reach the top for sunrise. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the path is steep and rocky.
Visiting St. James Church
St. James Church is central to Medjugorje's religious activities. Built in 1969 to replace an older structure, this church now hosts daily Masses in multiple languages. During peak seasons, you might see long lines of pilgrims waiting for confession, a common practice for many visitors. The church grounds behind the building can transform into an outdoor Mass venue to accommodate large crowds. Even outside of service times, the atmosphere around the church is often quiet, suitable for personal prayer or reflection.
The Marian Apparitions of Medjugorje
On June 24, 1981, six local children reported seeing an apparition of the Virgin Mary on a hill above Medjugorje. They claimed the visions continued daily, with the Virgin Mary delivering messages of peace and spiritual renewal. These reports brought international attention to the small Herzegovinian town, with millions of pilgrims visiting over the following decades. While the Catholic Church has not officially recognized the apparitions, Pope Francis authorized pilgrimages to Medjugorje in 2019, acknowledging its importance for many believers.
Planning Your Trip to Medjugorje
To reach Medjugorje, you can fly into nearby airports in Mostar (25 km away), Split (150 km), or Dubrovnik (150 km). From these cities, take a bus or arrange a private transfer to Medjugorje. The town has numerous accommodation options, from simple guesthouses to more upscale hotels. For a more immersive experience, you can choose to stay with a local family who rents out rooms in their home.
Exploring Beyond Medjugorje
While in Medjugorje, take time to explore the surrounding region. Just 25 km away, you'll find Mostar, known for its Stari Most (Old Bridge) spanning the Neretva River. For a nature excursion, visit the Kravice Waterfalls, where the Trebižat River cascades over a 25-meter drop. These nearby sites allow you to combine your time in Medjugorje with exploration of Herzegovina's landmarks and landscapes.
