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Ali Pasha's Mosque: A Testament to Ottoman Sarajevo

Discover Ali Pasha's Mosque in Sarajevo: a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and a serene sanctuary with a rich history.

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Ali Pasha's Mosque, constructed in 1560-61, stands as a beautiful example of classical Ottoman architecture in Sarajevo. Named after Sofu Hadım Ali Pasha, it features a prominent dome, elegant cloister, and a serene courtyard housing the tombs of notable Bosnians. Heavily damaged during the Bosnian War, it has been lovingly restored and remains a significant cultural and religious landmark.

A brief summary to Ali Pasha's Mosque

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting, as it is an active place of worship. Women may need to cover their heads.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Take some time to explore the surrounding area, where you'll find charming cafes and shops reflecting Sarajevo's unique culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Ali Pasha's Mosque is centrally located in Sarajevo and easily accessible on foot from many major landmarks. From the Baščaršija (Old Town), walk south along Ferhadija street, then turn east onto Hamze Hume street. The mosque will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest public transport station is Trolley Station Skenderija, about 210 meters from the mosque. From the main train or bus station, take a tram to the Skenderija stop. From there, walk along Hamze Hume street to reach the mosque. A single ticket costs 1.60 KM if purchased at a kiosk or 1.80 KM from the driver. A 24-hour ticket costs 6.00 KM.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Sarajevo. A taxi ride from the Sarajevo airport to the city center (Baščaršija) typically costs 17-20 KM. From there, it's a short ride to the mosque. The starting fare is 1.90 KM, with an additional 1.20 KM per kilometer. Ensure the driver uses the taximeter.

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Discover more about Ali Pasha's Mosque

Ali Pasha's Mosque, or Alipašina džamija, is a historical mosque in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, dating back to the 16th century. Built between 1560 and 1561, the mosque was established as a vakıf (endowment) by Sofu Hadım Ali Pasha, an Ottoman statesman and governor of the Bosnia Eyalet. He passed away in September 1560, just before the mosque's completion. This mosque is considered one of the most harmonious and beautiful mosques built in the classical Ottoman style in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its architectural design includes a dome covering the prayer area and three smaller domes covering the cloister. The mosque's proportions make it the largest sub-dome mosque in the country. The mosque complex includes a courtyard containing Ali Pasha's tomb, as well as the resting places of many other prominent Bosnians. The gravestones of dervishes Ajni Dede and Šemsi Dede, who arrived in Sarajevo with Sultan Mehmed II, were moved to this courtyard. These gravestones are among the oldest Ottoman monuments in Sarajevo. During the Bosnian War in the early 1990s, the mosque suffered heavy damage, particularly to its dome. However, it was renovated in 2004, and in January 2005, it was designated a National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Today, Ali Pasha's Mosque stands as a testament to Sarajevo's rich Ottoman heritage and the resilience of its cultural landmarks.

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