Chapters 1-2 Summary

The town of Višegrad grows up in one of the few areas that the fast-flowing Drina River spreads out to accommodate agriculture. The town is centered on a triangle of land formed by the junction of the smaller Rzav River and then climbs uphill. The road from Sarajevo to Stambul passes through, requiring ferry service until the massive stone bridge, its center splayed out to double the width to serve as the town's cultural meeting place (kapia). On the right side is the stone sofa for seating, backed by a protective parapet, in whose center is an inscription praising the builder.

Once the bridge is built, Višegrad develops at its ends. Generations grow up playing around it and learning its legends—different versions for Christians and Muslims—and go on to flirt, fight, reconcile, sell, bargain, beg...