THE CITY TURKS FOUNDED IN EUROPE: SARAJEVO

Sarajevo is rich in history and cultural diversity. It is a city that attracts both history buffs and nature and winter sports enthusiasts

Sarajevo was a small settlement when the Ottomans conquered Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1463. However, Sarajevo was rapidly expanded and commercially developed by the Ottoman rulers. Sarajevo reflects the architectural development of the Ottoman period and a unique blend of Islamic architecture. Wooden and stone buildings, domed mosques, fountains and bazaars…

The city is characterized by multiple monuments and historical buildings bearing traces of the Ottoman era. Especially the old bazaar called Başçarşı continues to reflect the commercial life of the Ottoman period. Sarajevo’s economy has developed greatly over time. Located at the crossroads of trade routes, this city became one of the important points of trade in the region.

Various merchants visited Sarajevo and had the opportunity to both sell their products and get to know Bosnian culture. During this period of flourishing trade, various markets and inns were popular in the city. The inns in Sarajevo were among the important buildings that offered accommodation and trade opportunities for tourists. These inns were not only a commercial center but also a good stop for social and cultural interactions. Especially in later times, inns became an important part of city life.

SARAJEVO CONTINUES TO BEAR THE TRACES OF THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE

Water systems and infrastructure projects gained importance in Sarajevo during the Ottoman period. Many fountains were built in the city and waterways were acclimatized. Especially Gazi Husrev Bey Aqueduct is known as one of the most important structures of the period providing water to the city.

One of the important structures of Sarajevo during the Ottoman period is the Clock Tower. This tower is considered the heart of life in the city. The Clock Tower helps people keep track of time and organize their days. During the Ottoman period, Sarajevo saw a great development in art and culture.

Traditional Ottoman arts are still widely practiced in the city. Art branches such as calligraphy, marbling, and illumination have gained an important place in Sarajevo. At the same time, Sarajevo, which has produced important works in the field of literature, still continues to experience the richness of many religions and languages. For this reason, Sarajevo is always known as an important representation of tolerance and peace.

The change of Sarajevo during the Ottoman period is still felt in the city life today. At the same time, Ottoman culture and traditions in the city played an important role in the formation of Sarajevo. Mosques, inns, baths, and other buildings in the city are important historical monuments bearing the traces of the Ottoman Period.

WHAT TO DO AND WHAT TO EAT IN SARAJEVO?

The Sarajevo Film Festival is one of the most important cultural events of the city. This annual festival brings together many directors and artists from the Balkans and Europe. Events such as the Sarajevo Theater Festival, Sarajevo Jazz Festival, and Sarajevo Winter Festival offer a pleasant experience for those who want to explore the cultural life in the city with art and music experiences. Festivals cause Sarajevo to be recognized internationally and attract many visitors and tourists to the city. Winter tourism is another important tourist area in Sarajevo.

Mount Jahorina in the city is an ideal location for winter sports. This region, which is very suitable for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, is one of the first places preferred by both locals and tourists. Sarajevo’s gastronomy has become a center of attraction with its rich and delicious cuisine. Local delicacies such as Cevapi, bureg, begova soup, klepe, sampita and juniper juice are among the delicacies that should definitely be experienced. Sarajevo also draws attention to its museums. Bosnia-Herzegovina History Museum, Sarajevo Museum and War Children Museum are among the important museums that introduce the rich historical and cultural diversity in the city.

These museums offer visitors the opportunity to discover the history and culture of the region. Famous for its history, culture and natural beauties, Sarajevo has many places to visit. Başçarşı, Gazi Husrev Bey Mosque, Latin Bridge, Sarajevo Tunnel (Tunnel Spasa), Sarajevo Cathedral (Cathedral of the Sacred Heart), Sarajevo Roses, Vrelo Bosne, Bijela Tabija (White Bastion), Avaz Twist Tower are some of the destinations where Sarajevo will offer an unforgettable experience to its visitors with its historical depth and cultural richness.

Editor- Şeyma Altunok