The original railway bridge was destroyed by Partisans in 1943, though they later built a makeshift wooden bridge to transport their wounded across the river.
The steam locomotive displayed at the museum was used in the 1969 Yugoslav film 'Battle of Neretva', which starred Orson Welles.
The site includes a complex network of historical documentation detailing the survival of over 4,000 wounded Partisans during the retreat.
The destroyed bridge span currently lying in the Neretva River is an original historical artifact preserved in situ.
The memorial complex was inaugurated in 1978 as part of the broader Yugoslav 'Spomenik' (monument) building movement.
The Memorial Complex 'Battle of the Neretva' in Jablanica serves as a major site commemorating the 1943 World War II strategic operation known as Case White. The museum structure and the surrounding park preserve the memory of the Partisan resistance led by Josip Broz Tito. The focal point of the complex is the iconic destroyed railway bridge over the Neretva River, which was deliberately demolished by Partisan forces to deceive Axis powers. An original steam locomotive and various pieces of military equipment from the era are displayed on-site. The complex is officially designated as a National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It functions as both a museum and an open-air memorial park dedicated to the wounded soldiers transported during the battle. The site provides comprehensive historical context regarding the logistics and human cost of the Fourth Enemy Offensive.
The viewing platform overlooking the railway bridge and the river valley provides the clearest sightline for photography.
Walk down to the riverbank for a better perspective of the twisted iron wreckage of the bridge.
Visit the indoor museum section first to understand the complex military strategy before viewing the outdoor installations.
Check the official website before visiting, as certain sections occasionally close for maintenance.
Do not attempt to climb or walk across the remnants of the bridge, as it is unstable and prohibited.
The museum is open daily throughout the year but may have limited operations during major national holidays.
Maintain a respectful demeanor as the site functions as both a museum and a war memorial.
