The 16th-century Stari Most, or Old Bridge, in the city of Mostar is one of Bosnia's most recognizable landmarks, and the tradition of diving from the bridge into the Neretva River is as old as the bridge itself. On July 28, high-divers took part in an annual competition, plunging some 24 meters from the bridge's high point in front of spectators and a jury.
A Flying Leap From Mostar's Famous Bridge
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Diver Lorens Listo jumps from the center of Mostar's Stari Most, or Old Bridge. Diving competitions have been held here since the bridge was built 447 years ago, although the current formal competition dates back only to 1968.
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Twenty-eight divers took part in this year's competition.
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The ancient bridge was destroyed in November 1993 by Bosnian Croat forces fighting in Bosnia's civil war. It was reconstructed over several years and reopened in July 2004.
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Spectators watch the competition from the riverbank.
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Listo won the competition for the seventh time.
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Listo poses with his trophy.
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Diver Igor Kazic waves to the crowd...
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...and poses with his trophy.
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A diver holds flares to illuminate his nighttime plunge.
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