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Sarajevo City Hall: A Symbol of Resilience

Discover Sarajevo City Hall: A stunning architectural gem with a rich history, symbolizing Sarajevo's resilience and cultural heritage.

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Sarajevo City Hall, or Vijećnica, is an iconic Austro-Hungarian building showcasing a pseudo-Moorish architectural style. Originally serving as the city's administrative center and later the National Library, it was destroyed during the Bosnian War in 1992 and meticulously restored in 2014. Today, it stands as a symbol of Sarajevo's multicultural history and resilience.

A brief summary to Sarajevo City Hall

Local tips

  • Explore the City Hall's surroundings, including the Old Town (Baščaršija) and the Latin Bridge, to immerse yourself in Sarajevo's history and culture.
  • Visit the City Hall during a cultural event or exhibition to experience its vibrant atmosphere and learn more about Bosnian art and culture.
  • Take your time to admire the intricate details of the building's architecture, including the stained glass, arches, and Islamic calligraphy.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Baščaršija, Sarajevo's old bazaar, the City Hall is a short walk east along Obala Kulina bana, the main street following the Miljacka River. The walk is mostly flat and takes about 5-10 minutes, passing the Seher-Cehajina bridge. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The tram is a convenient option from many parts of Sarajevo. Tram lines run through the city center, and the 'Vijećnica' tram stop is directly in front of the City Hall. A single tram ticket costs 1.80 KM if purchased on the tram, or 1.60 KM at a kiosk. Trams generally operate from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Sarajevo. A short taxi ride from the city center to the City Hall typically costs between 5-10 KM, depending on the starting point and traffic. Ensure the driver uses the taximeter. Taxi stands are located near major attractions and hotels.

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Discover more about Sarajevo City Hall

Sarajevo City Hall, locally known as Vijećnica, is one of the most recognizable symbols of Sarajevo. Constructed during the Austro-Hungarian period between 1892 and 1894, it represents a blend of historical eclecticism, predominantly featuring a pseudo-Moorish style inspired by Islamic art from Spain and North Africa. Architect Aleksandar Wittek, after facing criticism, studied buildings in Cairo to inform his design. Ćiril M. Iveković completed the project after Wittek's illness and death. Initially, the building served as the city's administrative center, hosting the city administration, the district court, and the Parliament of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 1949, it became the National and University Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina, housing approximately 1.5 million volumes, including rare books and manuscripts. During the Siege of Sarajevo on August 25-26, 1992, the City Hall was struck by Serbian shelling, resulting in a devastating fire that destroyed nearly 90% of the library's collection. This event became a symbol of the city's suffering during the war. Reconstruction began in 1996 with funding from Austria and the European Commission, and the building was officially reopened on May 9, 2014, coinciding with Europe Day and the Day of Victory over Fascism. Today, Sarajevo City Hall hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and sessions of the City Council. Visitors can explore its ornate interiors, including the grand ceremonial hall, stained glass, and Islamic calligraphy. The building also contains exhibits about the history of Sarajevo, including the Siege, and the International Criminal Tribunal. Its location near other attractions like Baščaršija and the Latin Bridge makes it a central point for exploring Sarajevo's rich history.

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