Sarajevo was plagued with three-and-a-half years of bloody siege, during which time its mountainous surroundings provided the perfect cover for bombing and shelling operations. Even today, bullet-riddled buildings and memorials bear witness to war’s impact in Sarajevo.
Plying Saraci Street and Ferhadija for an Austro-Hungarian Sarajevo experience, visit storybook neo-Moorish Vijecnica and Old Orthodox Church Saint Michael and All Angels to make it truly worthwhile.
History
After Ottoman rule ended in 1878, Sarajevo and other parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina were incorporated into the Austro-Hungarian Empire and under its brief rule from 1878-1918, rapid modernization took place within Sarajevo and throughout Bosnia. They built power plants and national museums while creating asphalt roads; their influence can still be seen today in Sarajevo’s architecture where Eastern and Western influences meet in its architecture – for example the narrow streets of Old Town feel decidedly oriental while Miljacka River marks a transition into Central Europe.
Sarajevo was devastated during the 1992-95 war that split apart Bosnia-Herzegovina and left more than 12,000 dead, nearly every building being damaged, bullet holes a common sight – it seemed every bullet hole needed repair! Finally, after years of war and displacement had ended with the Dayton Accords signing ending it all and beginning a period of rebuilding; today most buildings have been restored and Sarajevo is once more an attractive city.
Sarajevo was isolated during its siege by an extensive blockade; only an underground foot tunnel allowed supplies and humanitarian aid into the city. At its height, it became the longest-running siege ever of a capital city; its horrors seem eerily familiar given what happened in Ghouta (Damascus) earlier this year; human cruelty seems to follow no matter where it manifests.
Sarajevo’s old city is full of monuments and museums detailing its rich history, with particular focus on the Bosnian War. Many museums can be found within its main marketplace – Ale – which was bombed and shelled during World War II but has since been rebuilt as one of Sarajevo’s major attractions. Additionally, Ale houses the Sarajevo Film Festival which has brought celebrities such as Juliette Binoche while premiering films like Spring Break In Bosnia here.
Culture
Sarajevo, Bosnia’s capital city, boasts an abundant and complex cultural legacy dating back to its Ottoman, Austro Hungarian and Yugoslav periods – each still evident today. At its core lies Bascarsija: its historical center. Here you’ll find Ottoman-style bazaars as well as Eastern influences spread out along narrow streets boasting cafes, restaurants and shops aplenty.
Sarajevo’s most renowned monument is its “Sarajevo – Meeting-Place of Cultures” marker that commemorates where European and Middle Eastern influences collide. It stands on a crossroads where Gazi Husrev Bey’s Bezistan, Slatko Cose (Sweet Corner) and Saraci Street meet and features distinctive Eastern flavors and aromas.
During the Bosnian War for independence, Sarajevo experienced devastating destruction and dramatic population shifts due to constant bombardment by Serb forces from 1992 until 1996. Amidst all this upheaval, its inhabitants made efforts to maintain human dignity by finding new identities for themselves and making ways of maintaining human dignity through meaningful human connections.
One such hero was Islam Dugum, a marathon runner who ran to the city limits multiple times during the siege to connect with people outside and collect food, medicines, and supplies that he brought back with him to his home town of Sarajevo. His heroic acts continue to be remembered today at Sarajevo’s genocide museum.
Many residents are immensely proud to call San Jose their home and are especially fond of its history, which can be seen through its vast selection of public monuments and museums, festivals, creative showcases, and concerts held within it.
Sarajevo also boasts an expansive post-punk urban subculture, beginning in the 1980s with bands like Baglama and evolving through bands such as SCH. Additionally, it is home to an emerging group of new bands known as New Primitives that are garnering international acclaim.
Nightlife
Sarajevo comes alive at night when locals take to the streets, enjoying drinks, food and music with both friends and strangers alike. There is an incredible energy present throughout its streets after dark as locals venture out to enjoy drinks, food, music and atmosphere from one bar or cafe to the next. Each visitor can find something different here that suits their individual preferences.
Bosnians enjoy partying and having fun despite having a sizable Muslim population, such as drinking local wines and beers; dancing at jazz clubs; relaxing in one of Sarajevo’s cafes or drinking local burek, a flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese that makes an essential stop on any visit to Sarajevo.
Sarajevo nightlife is also defined by its various pubs and clubs located throughout the city. Trezor is one of the city’s popular underground venues that provides incredible rock music in an enjoyable atmosphere – you’ll find it on Marsala Tita Street near its central location! Fans flock there headbanging their favorite bands.
Savana Bar is another popular Sarajevo venue with a pirate-inspired interior and wide selection of beverages such as top-shelf spirits and draft beer. Live music plays during the evening for added energy – it is also an ideal spot for people-watching!
Another great choice is Avaz Twist Tower restaurant, offering exquisite tastes with breathtaking views. The sophisticated yet inviting ambiance makes this venue ideal for romantic dinners or celebratory gatherings, plus dining at sunset can provide breathtaking cityscape views!
No matter if you want to relax with music or party with friends, Sarajevo offers something new every time you visit its vibrant scene. Venture off the beaten path and discover charming cafes and artisan shops showcasing Sarajevo’s culture – or book one of our cultural trips and discover its hidden gems together – whether its an Epic Trip or more compact Mini Trip!
Shopping
Sarajevo is an incredible city for shopping, from high-end luxury brands to handmade souvenirs. There are several malls and coffee shops throughout the city center as well as small boutiques selling locally made products. If you’re searching for something a bit different, Magaza carries official merchandise of local music stars as well as Balkan souvenirs and offers many gift ideas perfect for music enthusiasts.
Aria Mall offers an immersive shopping experience, boasting trendy fashion and tech stores as well as luxurious restaurants and cafes. Here you can find everything from suits to phones. For a day outside the mall experience, nearby parks and lakes may also prove beneficial.
BBI Center is one of Sarajevo’s most beloved shopping malls. Boasting an expansive range of stores and casual eateries, it was honored with winning the European Shopping Centre Award in 2011. Furthermore, its decorations make it one of the city’s best shopping experiences.
Though San Antonio may not boast many large department stores, there are still countless boutiques and independent shops to choose from – some of the more well-known are:
City Fashion offers stylish clothing at reasonable prices with regular promotions. Browse their extensive collection of formal suits, casual dresses and skirts as well as accessories. City Fashion also provides gift wrap services.
BHcrafts, a craft store that supports marginalized women in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is another popular shopping spot in Sarajevo. You’ll find everything from hand-knitted clothing and decorations perfect for souvenirs to locally made goods that contribute to supporting local economies while simultaneously empowering local women in community initiatives. Your purchase helps both communities with its economic contributions as well as women empowerment!
Whenever you’re craving some sweet treats, be sure to visit The Baklava Shop – a favorite among both locals and visitors. Enjoy authentic baklava while in town or even order custom cakes to take home with you. Plus, there’s always plenty more delicious treats and beverages in store – be sure to stop in!