Background

Sarajevo City Hall: A Symbol of Resilience

Discover Sarajevo City Hall: An architectural masterpiece blending Austro-Hungarian and Moorish styles, symbolizing Sarajevo's vibrant history and resilience.

4.7

Sarajevo City Hall, or Vijećnica, is an iconic Austro-Hungarian building showcasing a pseudo-Moorish architectural style. Serving as a symbol of the city's history, it has functioned as a city hall, library, and now a monument to Sarajevo's resilience after being damaged in the Bosnian War.

A brief summary to Sarajevo City Hall

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience.
  • Take your time to carefully read the displayed materials to gain a deeper understanding of Bosnia's history.
  • Entrance fee is 10 BAM.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Sarajevo City Hall is located in the heart of Sarajevo's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot from many central landmarks. From Baščaršija, the historic bazaar, walk east along Obala Kulina bana, following the Miljacka River. The City Hall will be on your left, a short walk past the Latin Bridge.

  • Public Transport

    Sarajevo's public transportation system includes trams, trolleybuses, and buses that connect various parts of the city. Several tram lines stop near the City Hall. Take a tram to the Vijećnica stop, which is located directly in front of the building. Tram tickets cost 1.60 BAM if purchased at a kiosk or 1.80 BAM if purchased from the driver. Remember to validate your ticket upon entering the tram.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Sarajevo. You can find taxi stands near major attractions or hail a taxi on the street. A short taxi ride from the city center to the City Hall typically costs between 5 and 10 BAM, depending on traffic and the starting location. Be sure the driver uses the meter, with a starting fare of 1.90 KM and a rate of 1.20 KM per kilometer. Taxi fares can only be paid in cash.

Unlock the Best of Sarajevo City Hall

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Sarajevo City Hall

Sarajevo City Hall, locally known as Vijećnica, stands as a testament to the city's rich and turbulent history. Constructed during the Austro-Hungarian Empire between 1892 and 1894, the building's design, a blend of historical eclecticism and pseudo-Moorish style, pays homage to the region's Islamic heritage, drawing inspiration from Mamluk-period architecture in Cairo. Initially designed by Karel Pařík, the project was later taken over by Aleksandar Wittek and Ćiril Iveković due to disagreements and Wittek's illness. The City Hall first opened its doors on April 20, 1896, becoming the seat of the city's administration. Over the years, it has housed the city hall, parliament, and the National and University Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina. During the Siege of Sarajevo in 1992, the City Hall suffered extensive damage from Serbian shelling, resulting in the destruction of nearly 90% of the library's collection, including rare manuscripts and incunabula. The building's charred remains became a symbol of the city's suffering. Reconstruction efforts began in 1996, with funding from Austria, the European Commission, and the city of Barcelona. The City Hall was officially reopened on May 9, 2014, coinciding with Europe Day and the Day of Victory over Fascism. Today, Sarajevo City Hall serves as a venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and official functions. Visitors can explore its grand halls, admire the intricate architectural details, and learn about the building's history and significance. The City Hall also hosts exhibits related to the Siege of Sarajevo and the International Criminal Tribunal, offering a poignant reminder of the city's past.

Popular Experiences near Sarajevo City Hall

Popular Hotels near Sarajevo City Hall

Select Currency