Michael Portillo continues his Balkan rail adventure this Friday on BBC Two’s “Great Continental Railway Journeys.” Armed with his trusty Bradshaw’s guide, Portillo embarks on a scenic route from Mostar to Dubrovnik, taking in the history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia.
The episode begins with a picturesque train ride from Sarajevo to Mostar, during which Portillo reflects on the complicated ethnic and religious divisions that marked the former Yugoslavia. In Mostar, he visits the iconic reconstructed bridge, a symbol of resilience and reconciliation, and connects with young people at the Mostar Rock School.
Continuing his journey, Portillo inspects the modern marvel of the Peljesac Bridge, then concludes his trip in Dubrovnik, where he gets a taste of local life, enjoying traditional music and dancing. As he travels, Portillo also shares his experiences as part of an international commission dedicated to locating the bodies of missing persons from the Yugoslav Wars, adding a somber but important dimension to his travelogue. Catch “Great Continental Railway Journeys” Friday, 14 March at 6:30 PM on BBC Two.
