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Emperor's Mosque: Sarajevo's Ottoman Jewel

Discover Sarajevo's oldest mosque, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture with a rich history and serene atmosphere on the Miljacka River.

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The Emperor's Mosque (Careva Džamija), Sarajevo's oldest mosque, stands as a testament to the city's rich Ottoman heritage. Built in 1457 and later rebuilt in 1565, it showcases classical Ottoman architecture and serene beauty along the Miljacka River.

A brief summary to Emperor's Mosque

  • VC4J+X9C, Obala Isa-bega Ishakovića, Sarajevo, 71000, BA
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the mosque to respect local customs; remember to remove your shoes before entering.
  • Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the beautiful sunset views over the mosque and the Miljacka River.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the mosque's history, architecture, and cultural significance.
  • Explore the surrounding Old Town, with its mix of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture, shops, and cafes.
  • Be mindful of prayer times, as the mosque may be busier during these periods.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Latin Bridge in the heart of Sarajevo's Old Town, head east along Obala Isa-bega Ishakovića, following the Miljacka River. The Emperor's Mosque will be on your left, a short 5-minute walk. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus or train station in Sarajevo, take tram line 1 or 3 towards the city center. Get off at the 'Latin Bridge' tram stop. From there, walk east along Obala Isa-bega Ishakovića for about 250 meters. The Emperor's Mosque will be on your left. A single tram fare costs approximately 1.60 BAM.

  • Taxi

    From Sarajevo International Airport, a taxi ride to the Emperor's Mosque typically takes 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. The average fare is around 30 BAM. Alternatively, a shorter taxi ride from the city center to the mosque will cost approximately 7-15 BAM, depending on the distance and traffic.

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Discover more about Emperor's Mosque

Nestled along the banks of the Miljacka River, the Emperor's Mosque is more than just an architectural marvel; it's a symbol of Sarajevo's Ottoman legacy. Constructed in 1457, following the Ottoman conquest, it holds a special place in Bosnia and Herzegovina's history. The mosque was originally built in wood by Isa Bey Ishaković to honor Sultan Mehmed II “the Conqueror”. The original wooden structure was destroyed by the end of the 15th century. In 1565, under Suleiman the Magnificent, it was rebuilt in stone, adopting its current form. The mosque boasts sweeping arches, intricate carvings, and a grand subdome, reflecting classical Ottoman design. Inside, visitors can admire elaborate patterns and a glimmering mihrab. Side rooms were added in 1800 and connected to the central prayer area in 1848. Throughout its history, the Emperor's Mosque has been modernized and renovated, including restoration after damage in World War II and the 1990s conflicts. Today, it stands as a national monument, inviting visitors to explore its elaborate interiors and stroll along the riverbank towards the city center. The adjacent Isa-Bey Hamam has been reconstructed and now houses a boutique hotel. The mosque's burial ground contains the graves of viziers, mullahs, and other prominent Sarajevans.

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