The memory of the narrow-gauge railway that connected Herzegovina with Europe
On this day, November 6, 1966, the last one passed through Čapljina Ćiro, the legendary narrow-gauge train that for decades represented a symbol of connection, progress and everyday life in these areas. This iconic narrow-gauge railway, 0.76 meters wide, was built under the rule of Austria-Hungary at the end of the 19th century, primarily as a strategic military project. The railway connected the Adriatic ports with the hinterland and Central Europe, forming a key artery for economic and cultural development.
The first section of the Southern Railway, which stretched from Metković to Mostar in a length of 42.4 kilometers, was opened on June 13, 1885. Later, in 1901, the Gabela-Zelenik railway with branches to Trebinje and Dubrovnik was put into service. These railroads soon became a symbol of hope for local communities, allowing the population access to new economic opportunities, trade and cultural exchange.
Nickname "Ćiro" for the trains on these lines, it became common only towards the end of their existence, but it remained rooted in the collective memory. Unfortunately, in 1976, the Gabela-Zelenik railway was officially discontinued, thereby ending a significant historical era. Nevertheless, the memory of Ćira still lives on through the remaining traces of railway infrastructure, such as old railway stations and bridges. Three bridges have been preserved in Čapljina that bear witness to a rich history: the Struge bridge on the Trebižat river, the bridge on the Krupa river and the longest bridge on the Ćire - Tresana route in Gabela on the Neretva river.
Today, Ćiro has revived again, but in the form of a bicycle path that leads from Mostar to Dubrovnik. This route, famous among cyclists all over the world, is celebrating ten years since the launch of the project and attracts an increasing number of visitors. Cyclists from all over come to enjoy the natural beauty of Herzegovina, exploring its rich cultural heritage and enjoying the hospitality of the local population.
The Herzegovina Bike Association played a key role in the revival of this historic railway. Project "Cycling through history", launched in 2014, was the first step in revitalizing the route, followed by initiatives Ćiro Heritage, Ćiro 2 and many others. These projects laid the foundations for the development of cycle tourism in Herzegovina, constantly improving the tourist offer of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, and preserving the memory of Ćira for generations to come.
