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Sarajevo Rose: A Memorial to Loss and Resilience

A poignant reminder of Sarajevo's wartime past, the Sarajevo Roses mark sites of loss and symbolize the city's enduring resilience.

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The Sarajevo Rose is a poignant memorial found throughout Sarajevo, marking locations where at least three people were killed by mortar shell explosions during the Siege of Sarajevo. These unique memorials are created by filling the impact craters with red resin, symbolizing the blood shed during the war.

A brief summary to Sarajevo rose

  • VC5G+J6F, Trg Fra Grge Martića, Sarajevo, 71000, BA

Local tips

  • Look closely; the roses can be subtle and blend into the surroundings.
  • Reflect on the history and significance of each rose as you encounter them.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the Siege of Sarajevo and the stories behind the roses.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Sarajevo Rose at Trg Fra Grge Martića is easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Baščaršija, head west along Ferhadija Street. Trg Fra Grge Martića is located near the Sacred Heart Cathedral. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    If starting from further away, trams are a convenient option. Take tram line 3 and disembark at the 'Trg Fra Grge Martića' stop. From there, the Sarajevo Rose is a short walk away. A single tram ticket costs 1.60 BAM if purchased at a kiosk or 1.80 BAM if purchased from the driver.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Sarajevo. A short taxi ride to Trg Fra Grge Martića from the city center will typically cost between 7 BAM and 15 BAM, depending on the distance and traffic. Be sure the driver uses the taximeter.

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Discover more about Sarajevo rose

The Sarajevo Roses serve as a powerful reminder of the suffering endured by the citizens of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War. The Siege of Sarajevo, which lasted for 1,425 days from 1992 to 1995, was the longest siege of a capital city in modern warfare. During this time, the city was subjected to relentless bombardment, with an average of 330 mortar shell impacts per day. The impact of mortar rounds on the concrete created unique fragmentation patterns that resembled floral arrangements, leading to the name "Sarajevo Rose". After the war, these scars were filled with red resin as a memorial to those who lost their lives. Each rose marks a site where at least three people were killed. Today, around 200 roses are scattered throughout the city, serving as silent witnesses to the city's tragic past and the resilience of its people. Located at Trg Fra Grge Martića, one of the most well-known Sarajevo Roses serves as a place for reflection. While some roses were officially marked by the Ministry of Veterans’ Affairs, others were created spontaneously by citizens. Despite ongoing efforts to preserve them, many have been damaged over time due to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The roses serve not only as historical markers but also as emotional touchpoints, reminding both locals and visitors of the pain endured and the hope that bloomed in its aftermath.

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