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Sarajevo City Hall: A Symbol of Resilience

Discover Sarajevo City Hall: A symbol of resilience, blending Austro-Hungarian architecture with a rich history in the heart of Sarajevo.

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Sarajevo City Hall, or Vijećnica, is an iconic Austro-Hungarian building that stands as a symbol of the city's rich history and resilience. Rebuilt after being heavily damaged in the 1992 war, it now serves as a reminder of Sarajevo's multicultural heritage and its bridge between East and West.

A brief summary to Sarajevo City Hall

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience.
  • Take time to carefully read through all displayed materials for a deeper understanding of Bosnia's history.
  • Capture beautiful photos of the illuminated City Hall at night for memorable moments.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Sarajevo City Hall is located in the heart of Sarajevo, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From Baščaršija, the old bazaar, walk east along Obala Kulina bana, following the Miljacka River. The City Hall will be on your right, a short walk past the Latin Bridge. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Sarajevo's public transport network includes trams, trolleybuses, and buses. Several tram lines stop near the City Hall. Take tram line 1, 2, 3, 5 or 6 to the Vijećnica stop. From there, it's a short walk to the City Hall. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks for 1.60 KM or from the driver for 1.80 KM. A rechargeable card is also available for 5 KM.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sarajevo. A taxi ride from the Sarajevo Train/Bus Station to Baščaršija costs approximately 6-8 KM. From there it is a short walk to the City Hall. The starting fare is 1.90 KM, and the regular rate per kilometer is 1.20 KM. Ensure the driver uses the taximeter.

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Discover more about Sarajevo City Hall

Sarajevo City Hall, locally known as Vijećnica, is more than just a building; it's a symbol of Sarajevo's complex history and cultural diversity. Originally constructed during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, between 1892 and 1894, it was designed by Czech architect Karel Pařík in a pseudo-Moorish style, drawing inspiration from Mamluk-period buildings in Cairo, reflecting the Muslim heritage of Bosnia. Throughout its history, Vijećnica has served various purposes, including as a city hall, a parliament house, and the National and University Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In August 1992, during the Siege of Sarajevo, the city hall was deliberately targeted by Serbian shelling, resulting in a devastating fire that destroyed nearly 90% of the library's collection, including irreplaceable manuscripts and books. The event became a symbol of the tragedy of Sarajevo. The painstaking reconstruction of Vijećnica began in 1996, with significant contributions from Austria, the European Commission, and Spain. The restored City Hall reopened on May 9, 2014, marking both Europe Day and the Day of Victory over Fascism. Today, it stands as a testament to the city's ability to rebuild and serves as a venue for various cultural events, exhibitions, and even weddings. Visitors can explore the grand ceremonial hall, admire the intricate stained glass, elaborate arches, and Islamic calligraphy that adorn the facade. The building also hosts exhibitions, including the Sarajevo 1914-2014 exhibition, which provides insights into the city's 20th-century history, and an International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) information center.

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