They say that seeing is believing. Yet we believe lots of things without actually having witnessed them ourselves, but on the testimony of others. There can be many factors that determine what and what we don’t believe.
A short six mile section of the Croat coast is actually part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The D8 takes us through two sets of laborious customs. Then we turn right and head inland for Medjugorje. A small Bosnian town that became famous in 1981. Since then, it’s estimated that over thirty million Christian pilgrims have visited.
Our curiosity to visit is fueled by many friends who’ve been. They reveal it’s a place of tranquility, renewal and love. And the occasional miracle . . .
The tiny camp site has room for about twelve campers. We’re four of four. It’s near the end of the camper season. It’s basic, but good enough for a one-nighter, especially as we’re right in town. We pitch up then head straight for ‘Cross Mountain’ – 1K away. The lady in information says it’ll take us two hours up and down. We’ll just have time before it gets dark. We change course a short way up. A returning group say it’s at least a three hour hike. They point out we’re not wearing the right footwear. They are all in mountain boots.
We head for ‘Apparition Hill’, where it all began thirty-seven years ago. It’s a tricky forty five minute steep obstacle course. A funicular would do a roaring trade, or even the odd donkey.
It’s clear many making the climb have difficulty walking. Their perseverance is admirable. Many dressed in everyday clothes and shoes. Like us, not expecting such harsh terrain. We pass two people – they’re barefoot! All lends gravitas to their prayers.
It’s dark by the time we’re down. The cross at the top of ‘Cross Mountain” is clearly visible. It’s lit up. “It’s miles away up there, we’d have never have made it back down in time” Mary-Ann says. I agree.
Later that evening I’m intrigued to find out more of what’s been going on here. Google Wikipedia. Within the info I’m surprised to discover that there’s no electricity on Cross Mountain . . .