In the upcoming episode of “Great Continental Railway Journeys,” titled “Sarajevo,” viewers will join Michael Portillo as he embarks on a poignant journey through the capital of Bosnia. This episode, airing on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 7:30 Pm on BBC Two, promises to be both enlightening and reflective. Michael will trace the historical path of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie, whose tragic assassination in 1914 set off a chain of events leading to the First World War.

As Michael explores the rich yet turbulent history of Sarajevo, he will delve into the many conflicts that have shaped this volatile region. The episode will provide a unique perspective, as Michael recalls his own experiences visiting Sarajevo during the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s. His memories of the city, which had suffered greatly during the siege, add a personal touch to the narrative.

Viewers can expect a blend of historical insight and...