Touring Bosnia: Italians Travel Through Srebrenica, Sarajevo, and Prijedor to Understand the Aftermath of War, Here’s What You Need to Know

Published on October 17, 2025

In a meaningful tour across Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), a large group of Italians are discovering not only the country’s natural beauty but also its complex and painful past. This visit, which includes multiple cities, focuses heavily on understanding the events that took place during the 1992-1995 Bosnian War. The group’s primary aim is to learn about the tragic history of the region, including the notorious Srebrenica massacre, and to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.

ARCI and Its Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The visitors are members of ARCI (Associazione Ricreativa Culturale Italiana), Italy’s largest non-religious cultural association. Founded in 1957, ARCI operates with the mission of fostering social and cultural understanding, with an emphasis on combating fascism and promoting human rights. With over 5,000 centers and more than 1.2 million members, ARCI is committed to educational, cultural, and artistic initiatives, particularly those targeting youth and advancing democracy.

For years, ARCI has been bringing Italian citizens to BiH as part of its “Ultima tappa Srebrenica” (Last Stop Srebrenica) project. The goal is simple yet profound: to understand how such an atrocity could happen and to prevent future genocides. The group’s leader, Andrea Rizza Goldstein, has been a regular visitor to BiH since 2017, and the group’s trips include visits to key historical sites related to the Bosnian War, with a special focus on Srebrenica.

Itinerary and Key Stops: Sarajevo, Prijedor, and Srebrenica

The tour began with visits to Prijedor and Sarajevo, two cities that hold significant historical weight due to their roles during the war. In Prijedor, a region infamous for its concentration camps, the group explored the haunting legacy of those dark years. Sarajevo, known as the “Jerusalem of Europe,” played a crucial role in the war, and the tourists visited various key sites like the War Childhood Museum, the City Hall, and the Tunnel of Hope, which were pivotal during the siege of the city.

After their stay in Sarajevo, the group traveled to Srebrenica, the site of the worst massacre in Europe since World War II. It was here in July 1995 that over 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were killed by Bosnian Serb forces in a targeted act of genocide. Visitors to Srebrenica often feel the weight of the tragedy as they learn about the events that unfolded at the Memorial Center and reflect on how such a massacre could occur in modern Europe.

Lessons on Humanity: Visitors Reflect on the Tragedy

For Tahari Sedo, an Italian with Moroccan roots, the visit was a powerful experience. He noted the natural beauty of Srebrenica, but more importantly, he highlighted the emotional journey of learning about the horrific events that unfolded there. Despite the pain, he expressed optimism, particularly after witnessing local children of different nationalities playing together—an inspiring sign of unity after such division.

Sedo also shared his surprise when observing a football match between Serbia and Albania, where local Serbian fans applauded Albania’s victory. This moment of sportsmanship, despite historical tensions, was deeply moving for him and emphasized the potential for reconciliation and understanding.

Cultural and Educational Exchange

The Italians visiting BiH are not just tourists; they are engaged in a cultural and educational exchange. Their goal is to understand not only the war’s historical context but also its modern implications. Many of the participants, such as Sejla Kadric, a young woman of Bosnian descent born in Italy, are returning to their roots. She described her trip as a personal journey to connect with her heritage, which was shaped by family stories and history. Kadric spoke of the overwhelming emotions of visiting the sites of the war but also saw hope in the progress being made, especially when she observed children interacting without regard for ethnicity, nationality, or religion.

This trip to BiH is not just about learning the facts of war; it’s about drawing lessons for the future. Andrea Rizza Goldstein, the leader of the group, pointed out that while humanity has made strides in terms of human rights and war crimes tribunals, it is crucial to continue preventing genocides. His remarks connect the past with the present, making an urgent call for awareness in light of ongoing conflicts like the one in Gaza, underscoring the continued need for vigilance against hatred and violence.

Why Srebrenica Matters: A Trip with Purpose

The Last Stop Srebrenica project is more than just a visit; it’s a deep dive into the human cost of war and the importance of understanding history to prevent future atrocities. The members of ARCI, and others who join this educational trip, seek to reflect on the collective responsibility to ensure that such events never occur again. The choice of BiH as a destination is deliberate, as the country’s journey through war and its ongoing recovery is a powerful reminder of both the horrors of the past and the potential for healing and reconciliation.

Travel Tips for Visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina

For travelers planning to follow in the footsteps of the ARCI group, here are some travel tips for exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina:

• Srebrenica Memorial Center: A must-see for those interested in learning about the genocide and the ongoing efforts for reconciliation.
• Sarajevo: Don’t miss the Tunnel of Hope, which was a lifeline for citizens during the siege of Sarajevo, as well as the War Childhood Museum for a deep dive into the personal stories of children affected by the war.
• Prijedor: Visit the area that first saw the horrors of wartime concentration camps post-WWII, an essential location for those wanting to understand the roots of war crimes in the region.

Exploring the Beauty of BiH

Bosnia and Herzegovina is not only about its tragic history; it’s also a place of stunning natural beauty. From the picturesque Neretva River in Mostar to the lush landscapes surrounding Srebrenica and Sarajevo, travelers can experience breathtaking views and immerse themselves in the unique culture of the region. For those interested in history, culture, and natural beauty, BiH offers a wealth of experiences that blend past and present in powerful ways.