Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan: A Timeless Marketplace
Explore Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan: A historic Sarajevo marketplace offering traditional crafts, textiles, and a unique Ottoman-era shopping experience.
Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan is a captivating landmark that offers a glimpse into Sarajevo's rich cultural heritage. Constructed in 1555 as part of Gazi Husrev-beg's endowment, this covered market has been a vibrant center of commerce for centuries. Its architecture is reminiscent of the Kapali Bazaar in Istanbul, featuring a rectangular shape with entrances leading to a 109-meter-long street lined with small shops. Originally, the Bezistan was built to maintain a cooler temperature, making it ideal for trading groceries. Today, you can find a variety of goods, including traditional crafts, textiles, jewelry, leather items, clothing, accessories, and local souvenirs. The Bezistan provides a unique shopping experience, blending the charm of the past with the bustle of modern-day commerce. The Bezistan is located in the heart of Baščaršija, near other historical landmarks such as the Kuršumli Madrasa, the Bey's Mosque, and the Clock Tower. It has been declared a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. While exploring the Bezistan, take time to appreciate the intricate stonework and beautifully crafted wood details that reflect the region's artistic heritage. In addition to the Bezistan, Gazi Husrev-beg also built the Tashlihan (Stone Inn) at the same time. The Tashlihan was severely damaged in a fire in 1879, and its remains are now part of the Hotel Europe's summer garden. Visiting Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan is a must for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the history and tradition of Sarajevo.
Local tips
- Visit during the morning hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience.
- Bargain with vendors for the best prices, especially when purchasing souvenirs or handcrafted items.
- Explore the surrounding Baščaršija area for traditional Bosnian coffee and local delicacies.
- Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the day of the week.
- Take your time to admire the architecture and soak in the historical atmosphere of this Ottoman-era marketplace.
A brief summary to Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan
- VC5H+H63, Gazi Husrev-begova, Sarajevo, 71000, BA
- +38733532-144
Getting There
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Walking
Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan is located in the heart of Baščaršija, Sarajevo's old town, making it easily accessible on foot. From the Latin Bridge, head southeast on Gazi Husrev-begova Street for about 200 meters. The Bezistan will be on your left. The walk is short and pleasant, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the city.
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Public Transport
To reach Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan via public transport, take a tram or bus heading towards the city center. Most lines will take you to Trg oslobođenja. From there, walk towards Gazi Husrev-begova Street, which is a short 5-minute walk. The Bezistan is located at VC5H+H63. A single tram or trolleybus ticket costs 1.60 KM (€0.80) if purchased at a kiosk or 1.80 KM (€0.90) if purchased on board. A 24-hour ticket costs 6.00 KM (€3.00).
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Sarajevo and can take you directly to Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan. Provide the driver with the destination: Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan, located on Gazi Husrev-begova Street. Taxi fares start at 1.90 KM, with an additional 1.20 KM per kilometer. A short taxi ride from the city center should cost around 6-8 KM. Be sure the driver uses the taximeter.
Attractions Nearby to Gazi Husrev-beg's Bezistan
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Tašlihan
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Sarajevo Meeting of Cultures
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Clock Tower
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Ferhadija Mosque
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Museum of the Jews of Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
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Gazi Husrev-beg's Madrasa
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Sarajevo Insider - City Tours and Excursions
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Gazi Husrev-Beg's Museum
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Site of the Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand
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Meet Bosnia Tours - Sarajevo Tours, Days Out, Excursions and Activities
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Gazi Husrev-beg's Hanikah
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Gavrilo Princip's footprints
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Archduke Ferdinand Memorial
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Sarajevo Museum 1878 – 1918
