The original statue on the hill was erected in 2001 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the apparitions.
The bronze reliefs along the path were added in 1989 and serve as stations for prayer during the ascent.
The terrain of the hill is composed of jagged, sharp limestone karst common to the Dinaric Alps.
The first apparitions reported by the visionaries occurred on June 24, 1981, a date now celebrated annually by thousands.
In 2019, the Catholic Church officially authorized organized pilgrimages to Međugorje, formally recognizing the site's importance.
The hill is frequently climbed by pilgrims in the dark during the early morning hours to avoid the intense Herzegovinian summer heat.
Apparition Hill, known locally as Podbrdo, is the site where six local youths reported the first apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1981. The path leading to the summit is marked by fifteen bronze reliefs depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary. The terrain consists of a steep, rocky trail that requires careful footing due to loose limestone. At the summit, a statue of the Queen of Peace stands at the exact location believed to be the site of the original vision. This site serves as the primary focal point for the millions of pilgrims visiting Međugorje annually. Prayer groups from diverse linguistic backgrounds frequently gather along the ascent to recite the Rosary. The hill remains open year-round, regardless of weather conditions, though it becomes treacherous during heavy rain. There are no man-made structures at the summit other than the statue and designated devotional areas.
The statue of the Queen of Peace at the summit offers a panoramic view of the Međugorje valley.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good ankle support to navigate the loose, sharp rocks.
Carry a personal supply of water as there are no vendor facilities on the trail itself.
Bring a portable flashlight or headlamp if planning an early morning ascent before sunrise.
Do not attempt the climb in flip-flops or open-toed sandals, as the sharp limestone causes frequent foot injuries.
Modest clothing is expected as this is a site of prayer; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout the ascent.
