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Emperor's Mosque

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Emperor's Mosque (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

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The Emperor's Mosque (Careva džamija) in Sarajevo holds the distinction of being the city's oldest Islamic religious building, constructed in 1457 by Isa-beg Ishaković, the Ottoman founder of Sarajevo. It was expressly built and dedicated in honor of Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror. Because the original wooden structure was destroyed by fire at the end of the 15th century, the building was replaced in 1565 during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent with the magnificent stone structure seen today. The majestic edifice is a prime example of classical Ottoman architecture, featuring a massive central dome, elegant half-domes, and an intricately decorated, octagonal minaret. The mosque also features a spacious, tranquil central courtyard bordered by historic graveyards where high-ranking dignitaries and the city's founder are traditionally believed to be buried. Serving as the official seat of the Grand Mufti of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Reisu-l-ulema), the Emperor's Mosque continues to play a pivotal theological and social role for the Muslim community across the Balkans.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-2-127121618181394-1
Rain mm6364696999103756177717473

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Emperor's Mosque is open to visitors, but access to the prayer hall is restricted for non-Muslims during prayer times. Modest dress is required.
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Typical hours
Typically, the mosque is open for visits between prayer times. On Fridays, access may be restricted due to the noon prayer.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in the courtyard, but usually not in the prayer hall. Ask for permission on site and avoid using flash.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes to an hour for the visit. The atmosphere of Sarajevo's oldest house of worship invites you to linger.
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Combine with
The mosque is in the heart of Baščaršija, the old town. Combine the visit with a stroll through the narrow streets and a stop at the Sebilj fountain.
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Getting there
The Emperor's Mosque is within walking distance from central Sarajevo. The nearest tram stop is Baščaršija.
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Insider tip
Visit the mosque early in the morning when it is still quiet. Remember to remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall.

Geography

Coordinates
43.85780, 18.43000

Facts

  • Initially built as a wooden structure in 1457 by Isa-beg Ishaković
  • Dedicated to the honor of Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror
  • The current stone architectural masterpiece dates back to 1565
  • Features an octagonal minaret celebrated as one of the finest in the Balkans
  • Serves as the headquarters for the Islamic Community (Riyasat) of Bosnia
  • Contains a richly decorated mihrab (prayer niche) pointing to Mecca
  • Officially designated as a National Monument in 2004

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Latin BridgeLatin Bridge<1 km · WExplore →
Istočni Stari GradIstočni Stari Grad2 km · EExplore →
Sarajevo ZooSarajevo Zoo2 km · NWExplore →
National Museum of Bosnia and HerzegovinaNational Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina2 km · WExplore →
Trebević Protected LandscapeTrebević Protected Landscape3 km · SExplore →
East SarajevoEast Sarajevo6 km · SWExplore →
LukavicaLukavica8 km · SWExplore →
BriješćeBriješće8 km · WExplore →

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Sights in the town Emperor's Mosque (10)

Careva ćuprija

Bridge over the Miljacka in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, from the Ottoman period.

Careva džamija

Mosque in Sarajevo, built in the 16th century, also called the Emperor's Mosque.

Museum of Sarajevo 1878-1918🏛 museum

Museum in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, about the Austro-Hungarian period.

💶

The Brusa Bezistan🏛 museum

Former market hall in Sarajevo, now a museum of textiles and handicrafts.

Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

Ottoman mosque in Sarajevo, built in the 16th century, central place of worship in the old town.

Konak

Residence of the Ottoman governor in Sarajevo, historic building from the 19th century.

Baščaršijska džamija

Mosque in Sarajevo, located in the Baščaršija bazaar district, from the 16th century.

Tašlihan

Archaeological site in Sarajevo, ruins of a 16th-century Ottoman caravanserai.

Sarajevo Clock Tower

Freestanding clock tower in Sarajevo, shows lunar time, landmark of the old town.

The Despić House🏛 museum

Historic home and museum in Sarajevo, Bosnia, from the 19th century.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the Emperor's Mosque built?
The original mosque dates from 1457; it was the first one built after the Ottoman conquest.
Can visitors enter the mosque?
Yes, visiting is possible outside of prayer times in modest clothing.
Where is the mosque located?
It is located on the left bank of the Miljacka River, opposite Baščaršija.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry is usually free, but donations are appreciated.
Are there graves there?
Yes, the grounds contain graves of prominent figures from the Ottoman era.
Emperor's Mosque: where is it located?
Emperor's Mosque is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Emperor's Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Careva ćuprija, Careva džamija, Museum of Sarajevo 1878-1918.
Emperor's Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Emperor's Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Emperor's Mosque (Careva džamija) in Sarajevo holds the distinction of being the city's oldest Islamic religious building, constructed in 1457 by Isa-beg Ishaković, the Ottoman founder of Sarajevo.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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