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Ferhadija Mosque: A Symbol of Sarajevo's Ottoman Heritage

Discover Sarajevo's Ottoman gem: The Ferhadija Mosque, a symbol of resilience and architectural beauty in the heart of the city.

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The Ferhadija Mosque, also known as Ferhat Pasha Mosque, stands as a testament to Sarajevo's rich Ottoman history. Built in the 16th century by Ferhad-beg Vuković, it showcases classical Ottoman architecture and intricate artistry. Severely damaged during the Bosnian War, it has been meticulously restored, becoming a symbol of resilience and a must-see landmark in the city center.

A brief summary to Ferhadija Mosque

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting; women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees, while men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Be mindful of prayer times, as the mosque may be temporarily closed to tourists during these periods.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the mosque's history, architecture, and cultural significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Baščaršija, the historic heart of Sarajevo, walk northeast on Sefikja Džemalovića towards Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. Continue to Ferhadija Street, turn left, and walk 500m. The mosque will be on your right. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Sarajevo City Center (SCC), take tram line 3 towards Ilidža and get off at Trg Austrije. Walk towards the historic part of the city until you reach Ferhadija Street. The mosque is a short walk ahead on your left. A single tram fare costs approximately 1.60 BAM.

  • Taxi

    Hail a taxi and provide the destination: 'Ferhadija Mosque'. The taxi will take you directly to the mosque, usually taking around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. A taxi ride from the airport to the mosque costs around 12 KM.

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Discover more about Ferhadija Mosque

The Ferhadija Mosque, or Ferhat Pasha Mosque, is a central and historically significant building in Sarajevo, reflecting the city's Ottoman heritage. Constructed in 1561-1562 by Ferhad-beg Vuković, a Bosnian Sanjak-bey, the mosque exemplifies classical Ottoman architecture at its peak. Its design features a single dome over the prayer area and three smaller domes at the cloister, complemented by a slender minaret, showcasing the refined aesthetics of the time. Over the centuries, the Ferhadija Mosque has undergone several changes. Fires in 1679 and 1897 caused significant damage, leading to subsequent repairs and alterations. Research into the mosque's interior in the 1960s revealed five layers of painted decoration, the oldest dating back to the 16th century with Rumi ornaments. These intricate designs connect it to other significant mosques of the era, such as the Aladža Mosque in Foča. During the Bosnian War in the 1990s, the mosque suffered severe damage from grenade attacks, particularly impacting the main cupola. In 2007, the cupola was removed entirely as part of a comprehensive restoration project. The reconstruction was carried out in two phases: repairing the war damage and restoring the arabesque paintings on the walls and inverted domes. The restoration revealed artistic styles from the 16th and 17th centuries, providing insights into the structure's evolving history. The restored mihrab and lights, dating back to the 16th century, are among the oldest features. Today, the Ferhadija Mosque stands as a symbol of Sarajevo's resilience and the revival of its cultural heritage. The mosque and its adjacent cemetery, which contains around twenty tombstones, form a complex recognized as a National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina since 2004. It is a prominent destination for tourists seeking to explore the city's Ottoman and Islamic history.

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