Tunnel of Hope Guide
A Lifeline of Hope: Remembering the Siege of Sarajevo at the Tunnel Museum Guide
The Tunnel of Hope, also known as Tunnel D-B, stands as a poignant reminder of the Siege of Sarajevo (1992-1996), the longest siege in modern history. This hand-dug tunnel, built in secret beneath the Sarajevo Airport runway, served as a vital lifeline for the besieged city, providing a crucial link to the outside world. Today, a portion of the tunnel has been preserved as a museum, offering visitors a powerful and moving experience. During the siege, Sarajevo was cut off from the rest of the world, with its citizens facing severe shortages of food, medicine, and other essential supplies. The Tunnel of Hope was conceived as a way to bypass the siege lines and connect Sarajevo to Bosnian-held territory. Construction began in 1993 and was completed in just a few months. The tunnel, approximately 800 meters (2,625 feet) long, 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) high, and 1 meter (3.3 feet) wide, became a lifeline for the city, allowing for the transport of goods, supplies, and people. A visit to the Tunnel Museum is a deeply emotional experience. You can walk through a preserved section of the tunnel, see exhibits of photographs, documents, and artifacts from the siege, and hear firsthand accounts from those who lived through it. The museum provides a powerful insight into the resilience and determination of the people of Sarajevo during a time of immense hardship. While the Tunnel Museum itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, it's a place to reflect on the hardships endured during the siege. Consider supporting local businesses in the surrounding area, where you can find traditional Bosnian cuisine and contribute to the community's recovery.
Transportation
The Tunnel Museum is located outside the city center. **Bus:** Take bus number 36 from Ilidža to Butmir. The bus stop is near the entrance to the tunnel museum.