AT THE CROSSROADS OF CULTURES
A city between East and West, a city at the crossroads of cultures, religions, and eras — that is Sarajevo. If you wish to embrace it with a gaze, head towards the walls of the Old Town of Vratnik, above Baščaršija, or the Yellow Fortress, or take the cable car to Trebević. The panoramic view, with the silhouettes of mosques, churches, cathedrals, and synagogues, bears witness to religious diversity, which is just one of the aspects that make this city truly global.
Enhad Goralija
This is a city where world history was written, at times somber, at times brilliant, but always ours. The foundations of the city were laid by Isa-bey Ishaković in the mid-15th century. Baščaršija, once a marketplace and now the core of the old town, charms tourists from around the world. The clock on its Sahat tower is the only public clock in the world that measures lunar time, guiding the schedule of Muslim prayers and marking the transition of days at sunset. The only preserved sebilj (a public fountain) on its square is a recognizable symbol of Sarajevo.
Enhad Goralija.
The streets of Baščaršija tell the stories of the Ottoman legacy in this city. From the clinking of artisan tools in Kazandžiluk Street, colorful silk scarves, and the aroma of coffee, to the Ghazi Husrev-bey’s Mosque — the most significant architectural monument of the Ottoman era in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
When you step from Baščaršija’s street Sarači into Ferhadija Street, crossing the sign symbolically marking the crossroads between the East and the West, you witness not only the contrasts of cultures and religions but also of different epochs. The Austro-Hungarian rule also brought many symbols to this city. Almost every building exudes elegance and splendor, something worthy of a countess.
Almedin Handanović
The Austro-Hungarians in the city built grand structures such as the City Hall. The community of evangelists was on the rise, leading to the construction of an evangelical church — one of the most beautiful buildings in Sarajevo. Today, it’s home to the Academy of Fine Arts, and in front of it stands the unique Festina Lente Bridge, which translates to “hurry slowly” in Latin, and is one of the favorite photo spots in the city.
There are numerous reminders of the cultural wealth of the people in Sarajevo. The old Orthodox church from the 16th century, the Old Temple, which houses the Jewish Museum, the Gallery of the New Temple, the Ashkenazi Synagogue, and the Sarajevo Haggadah — preserved in the National Museum, are just a few of them. There are also the Church of St. Anthony of Padua and the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart.
Enhad Goralija
The most renowned bridge over the Miljacka, among the 20 that exist, is the Latin Bridge. Just a few meters from this bridge, in 1914, Gavrilo Princip assassinated the Austro-Hungarian heir to the throne and his wife, sparking the beginning of World War I.
Sarajevo hosted the Winter Olympic Games in 1984 and, more recently, the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) in 2019. The event of the year is the Sarajevo Film Festival, where the world’s biggest stars grace the red carpet, or rather, our Bosnian kilim rug.
SKAKAVAC WATERFALL
A HIDDEN GEM OF SARAJEVO
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in nature where you’ll discover the calming world of forests, water, and fresh air? Just 12 kilometers away from the asphalt, buildings, concrete, and noise of Sarajevo, you’ll find the complete opposite—the green plateau of Skakavac.
After a walk through its forests, you’ll encounter a true spectacle — Skakavac Waterfall! With a height of about 98 meters, it’s almost like looking up to a 30-story building. As it plummets, the water creates a beautiful mist that refreshes you with its droplets as you get close.
Since 2002, this unique tourist area has been designated as a protected natural monument of the Sarajevo Canton. Stećak necropolis, a viewpoint, water sources, a circular via ferrata, the climbing area of Bijela stijena, and a mountain lodge are only a few of the attractions that make this location worth visiting.
With over 50 kilometers of marked and digitally mapped trails, Skakavac attracts hikers, cyclists, day-trippers, as well as mushroom and medicinal herb gatherers. Information boards, panels, and picnic gazebos with benches are available everywhere, providing a touch of indulgence during a meal in nature.
Marina Nedić
In winter, when temperatures drop, it’s not uncommon for the waterfall to freeze completely, creating a stunning spectacle that’s worth a visit.
The digital marking of this area is available on the free SOAR (Sarajevo Outdoor Routes) app, which can also be downloaded via a QR code at 136 points along the trail.
Alpine Experience Suitable for Everyone
Via ferrata, an Italian term meaning “iron path”, combines the thrill of hiking with the adrenaline rush of climbing. These trails, often set along steep cliffs, are secured with steel cable rail, metal steps, and other secured equipment, and lead to spectacular peaks, providing an unforgettable alpine adventure. Proper equipment is essential for safe traversal—a certified helmet, harness, and via ferrata set. Prior experience or the guidance of an instructor is advisable before embarking on this adventure.
Find this QR code on the location:
