The 9 best museums in Sarajevo
Sarajevo is a city with a rich and complex history, marked by cultural diversity and significant historical events. A visit to the city’s museums, in addition to a city tour, offers you the opportunity to find out more details about Sarajevo’s complex past – depending on which era you are particularly interested in.
As a small boutique travel agency in Sarajevo, we know the city like the back of our hand. We know exactly which museums you can’t miss during your visit. Here are our top recommendations for exploring the fascinating history and culture of this unique city.
OUR RECOMMENDATION: THE BEST MUSEUMS IN SARAJEVO
1. SARAJEVO 1878–1918: THE AUSTRO-HUNGARIAN PERIOD AND THE SARAJEVO ASSASSINATION
An absolute must for history lovers is the “Sarajevo 1878-1918” museum. It gives you a deep insight into the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which had a decisive influence on our city.
The exhibits on administration, architecture and daily life at that time are particularly interesting. Part of the museum is also a detailed exhibition on the assassination attempt on Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which is considered to have triggered the First World War. Here you can find out more about the background and consequences of this historical turning point.
Visit the website of the Museum Sarajevo 1878-1918
2. BRUSA BEZISTAN: OTTOMAN-STYLE TRADE AND SILK
The Brusa Bezistan Museum is another highlight in Sarajevo. Originally an Ottoman market for silk goods, this historic building now houses an impressive collection of artifacts that shed light on the city’s trading history – because in its heyday, Sarajevo was something like the New York of the region, a city where the world of the time lived in goods , people and stories came together.
Visit the Brusa Bezistan Museum website
3. HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: WAR AND PEACE
Another important museum is the Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The exhibition about the Bosnian War is particularly impressive, providing a moving insight into this time through photos, videos and personal items. If you want to find out more about the background, the permanent exhibitions here are just right for you.
Visit the website of the Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina
4. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: A TREASURE OF KNOWLEDGE
The National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina is the oldest museum in the city and houses an impressive collection from different eras. Here you will find archaeological finds, ethnological exhibits and scientific collections that reflect the rich history and culture of the region.
Our insider tip: On the first Saturday of every month you can marvel at the valuable Sarajevo Haggadah here.
Visit the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina website
5. SVRZO HOUSE: A WINDOW INTO THE OTTOMAN PERIOD
The Svrzo House is a well-preserved example of traditional Ottoman architecture and way of life. Here you can experience first-hand how the wealthy Glođo family lived in Sarajevo during the Ottoman rule. The rooms, furnished true to the original, and the beautiful inner courtyard are particularly worth seeing.
6. GALLERY 11/07/95: A MOVING REMEMBRANCE
Gallery 11/07/95 is a haunting museum dedicated to the memory of the Srebrenica massacre. The exhibition consists of photos, videos and personal stories documenting the tragic events and the suffering of the victims.
Visit the Gallery website 11/07/95
7. JEWISH MUSEUM: INSIGHTS INTO SARAJEVO’S JEWISH HISTORY
The Jewish Museum in Sarajevo is housed in a former synagogue and offers an impressive collection of Jewish history and culture in the city. From religious artifacts to personal stories of the Jewish community, this museum is a significant part of Sarajevo’s multicultural history.
8. OLYMPIC MUSEUM: MEMORIES OF THE 1984 WINTER GAMES
The Sarajevo Olympic Museum is a highlight for sports enthusiasts and history lovers alike. It commemorates the 1984 Winter Olympics that took place in Sarajevo. The exhibition includes medals, sports equipment and memorabilia celebrating the achievements and spirit of the Games.
Visit the Olympic Museum website
9. SARAJEVO CITY HALL: AN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
Sarajevo City Hall, also known as Vijećnica, is one of the most impressive buildings in the city. Originally built in 1896, it was badly damaged during the Bosnian War and was later restored. Today it houses a permanent exhibition on the history of the building and the war crimes tribunal in The Hague.
For art lovers, the Ars Aevi Museum on the last floors of the town hall is also a must. This museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary artworks by international and Bosnian artists. It is an inspiring place that shows how art can serve as a means of peace and understanding.
Visit the Sarajevo City Hall website
CONCLUSION: DISCOVER THE DIVERSITY OF SARAJEVO THROUGH ITS MUSEUMS
Each of these museums tells a unique story: from the Ottoman period to the Austro-Hungarian Empire to the tragic events of the 20th century and the Olympic memories – Sarajevo’s museums are the ideal place to delve even deeper into the diversity of “Jerusalem of Europe”. Use your time in the city to explore these fascinating places and learn more about Sarajevo’s past and present.
As a boutique travel agency, we are at your side with advice and support to make your visit to Sarajevo unforgettable. Book your tour with us today and discover this wonderful city!
