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Sarajevo Clock Tower: A Lunar Timekeeper

A historic Ottoman-era clock tower in Sarajevo's Old Town, famous for its unique lunar timekeeping and architectural beauty.

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The Sarajevo Clock Tower, or Sahat Kula, stands as a testament to Ottoman influence and unique timekeeping. This 17th-century tower is one of the tallest clock towers in Bosnia and Herzegovina and is the only public clock in the world that keeps lunar time.

A brief summary to Clock Tower

  • VC5H+MGR, Mudželiti veliki, Sarajevo, 71000, BA
  • +38762626626

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Explore the surrounding Baščaršija market for authentic local crafts and souvenirs.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the tower's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the heart of Baščaršija (Old Town), make your way towards the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. The Clock Tower is located right next to the mosque, easily visible within a 5-minute walk.

  • Public Transport

    Take tram lines 3 or 6 to the Baščaršija stop. From there, walk towards the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. The Clock Tower is a short 5-minute walk from the tram stop, located adjacent to the mosque. A single tram fare costs around 1.80 BAM.

  • Taxi

    Tell the driver to take you to 'Baščaršija' or 'Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque'. The Clock Tower is right next to the mosque. A taxi ride from the city center should cost approximately 5-10 BAM, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Clock Tower

Rising 30 meters beside the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Sarajevo Clock Tower (Sahat Kula) is more than just a timepiece; it's a symbol of Sarajevo's rich history and cultural heritage. Constructed in the 17th century during the Ottoman Empire, it showcases stunning Ottoman architectural style with elegant lines and intricate details. What makes this clock tower truly unique is its lunar timekeeping. The clock displays 'ala Turca' time, indicating midnight at sunset, which marks the beginning of a new day according to Islamic tradition. This system was crucial for determining the times of daily prayers. The tower's current clock mechanism was brought from London in 1875. A dedicated timekeeper, called a muvekkit, adjusts the clock regularly to maintain its accuracy. Located in the heart of Sarajevo's Old Town (Baščaršija), the Clock Tower is surrounded by lively shops, cafes, and bazaars. Visitors can explore nearby historical sites, soak in the atmosphere, and appreciate the blend of architecture. The Clock Tower is a reminder of the past and a testament to Sarajevo's enduring legacy.

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