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Sarajevo Clock Tower: A Lunar Timekeeper

Discover Sarajevo's iconic 17th-century Clock Tower, a unique landmark showcasing lunar timekeeping in the heart of the historic Baščaršija district.

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The Sarajevo Clock Tower (Sahat Kula), a 30-meter-tall historical landmark beside the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, is one of the city's iconic symbols of Ottoman influence, known for keeping lunar time. It 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 photos.
  • Explore the nearby 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

    The Clock Tower is located in Baščaršija, the old town of Sarajevo, next to the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. From most points in Baščaršija, it's a short walk. Look for the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, and the Clock Tower is right next to it.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Clock Tower via public transport, take tram number 3 or 6 to the Baščaršija stop. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk to the Clock Tower. A single tram fare costs around 1.80 BAM.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sarajevo. Ask to be dropped off at Baščaršija near the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. The Clock Tower is a short walk from there. A taxi ride from the city center should cost approximately 5-10 BAM.

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Discover more about Clock Tower

The Sarajevo Clock Tower, or Sahat Kula, stands proudly next to the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque in the heart of Sarajevo's old town, Baščaršija. This magnificent stone tower, reaching a height of 30 meters, dates back to the 17th century, with some believing it may have been built in the 16th century. It is one of the most important benefactors of Sarajevo. The tower has been rebuilt several times due to fires and wars. The clock tower is the tallest of the 21 clock towers erected throughout the country. What makes this clock tower truly unique is its adherence to lunar timekeeping, a tradition known as “ala Turca,” where the clock strikes midnight (12:00) at sunset. This system, once crucial for determining the timing of daily prayers, is now a rarity, with the Sarajevo Clock Tower believed to be the only public clock in the world still operating on lunar time. The current clock mechanism was brought from London in 1874. While the clock tower itself may not be open to visitors, its presence and the surrounding square offer a captivating glimpse into Sarajevo's rich cultural and religious heritage. The tower is a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The surrounding area is bustling with shops, cafes and artisans. The tower is near other attractions, including the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque.

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