Under Mount Zlatar, near the town of Konjic, lies one of the most fascinating legacies from the era of former Yugoslavia – Tito’s Bunker, also known as ARK D-0 (Atomic War Command). This facility, which was the most closely guarded state secret for decades, is now open to the public and represents one of the most interesting tourist attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Tito’s Bunker is an underground atomic shelter, built to protect the then lifelong president Josip Broz Tito and 350 members of his closest staff in the event of a nuclear war. The bunker was built in complete secrecy over 26 years, between 1953 and 1979, with a total construction cost of a staggering 4.6 billion dollars. Tito’s Bunker in Konjic is the third most expensive project of former Yugoslavia.
The complex is located 280 meters below ground and spans an area of 6,500 m², with over 100 rooms and chambers. It was constructed to withstand a nuclear blast of 25 kilotons. For comparison, Hiroshima was destroyed by an atomic bomb several times weaker. The shelter contains two tanks with 50 tons of fuel, two types of climate systems, a pool with 170 cubic meters of water, running water and technical water from a natural well inside the mountain. Each system has a backup in case the primary one fails. It includes command rooms, conference halls, offices, dormitories, technical and security systems, and is fully self-sustainable for up to 6 months without contact with the outside world.
Secrecy and Legend
There is a legend that the construction of the bunker was so secret that even the workers building it didn’t know what they were working on. They were brought in from three military posts, and to cover all traces, the workers were blindfolded during transport to the construction site. All individuals involved in any part of the construction were required to sign a lifelong confidentiality agreement. It remained a secret until the breakup of Yugoslavia in 1992, when JNA soldiers handed it over to the Territorial Defense forces of BiH, and later to the Army of BiH.
The bunker remained intact thanks to local authorities who prevented its destruction.
What is a visit to the bunker like?
Visits are only possible through organized tours that last about 90 minutes. The bunker is in excellent condition, and inside, it feels as if time has stood still. The heating, air conditioning, fire protection, and all other internal systems are in their original state and regularly maintained.
Tito’s Bunker Today – Contemporary Art Biennial
Since 2011, Tito’s Bunker has been hosting the international contemporary art biennial Biennale D-0 ARK Underground, under the patronage of UNESCO and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of BiH. A total of 107 artists from 32 countries have exhibited in the bunker, with over 130 works of art, valued at over 8 million euros.
Practical Information
- Location: 3 km from Konjic, 45 minutes’ drive from Sarajevo
- Tours: Daily at 9:00 and 12:00 (reservation required)
- Price: 40 KM - 20€ for adults, discounts for groups and students
- Contact: +387 62 444 264 / info@titovbunkerkonjic.net
- Temperature inside: Constant 21°C
- Note: Not recommended for people with claustrophobia
Why Visit Tito’s Bunker?
- Authentic insight into Cold War history
- Combination of history and art in one place
- Unique experience in entire Europe
- Perfect destination for tourists, researchers, and architecture enthusiasts
Additional Attractions Nearby
While you're in Konjic, take the opportunity to visit the Old Stone Bridge, local artisan workshops known for wood carving, or go on a rafting adventure down the Neretva River.
Conclusion
Tito’s Bunker in Konjic is a unique place where time seems to have stopped – a fusion of past and present. If you want to experience something truly extraordinary – visit this fascinating structure and uncover the secrets it kept hidden for nearly half a century.