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Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

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Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

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The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, frequently referred to simply as the Beg Mosque, is the most important and largest classical Ottoman architectural structure in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It was built in 1530 by the order of the Ottoman governor Gazi Husrev-beg, a nephew of Sultan Bayezid II, right in the center of Sarajevo's historic Baščaršija district. The renowned architect Adjem Esir Ali designed the building with an impressive 26-meter-high main dome surrounded by multiple smaller half-domes. The mosque complex also features a madrasa (Islamic school), a clock tower (Sahat-kula), a richly decorated fountain (Šadrvan) for ritual ablutions, and a mausoleum where Gazi Husrev-beg is buried. In 1898, the mosque made history by becoming the first mosque in the world to be connected to an electrical power grid for lighting. Despite enduring numerous wars, fires, and the 1990s siege, the mosque has remained the undisputed spiritual heart of Bosnian Muslims.

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 Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, Sarajevo's most significant Ottoman building, is open to visitors. Entry to the prayer hall is not allowed for non-Muslims during prayer times.
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Typical hours
Typically, the mosque is open daily between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM except during prayer times and Friday prayer. Ask on site for exact times.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in the courtyard but not in the prayer hall. The artistic calligraphy and dome offer great subjects from outside.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for the visit. The atmosphere and architecture invite quiet contemplation.
Combine with
The mosque is in the historic center of Baščaršija. Combine the visit with a walk through the bazaar and to the Sahat Kula clock tower.
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Getting there
The mosque is centrally located in Sarajevo, reachable on foot from the old town. The Baščaršija tram stop is a few minutes away.
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Insider tip
Visit the mosque in the morning to see sunlight through the stained glass. Respect the quiet and follow dress codes.

Geography

Coordinates
43.85980, 18.42890

Facts

  • The mosque was completed in 1530 based on the designs of Adjem Esir Ali.
  • The main dome has a diameter of about 13 meters and a height of 26 meters.
  • Gazi Husrev-beg was the Ottoman governor of Bosnia from 1521 to 1541.
  • The mosque first received electrical lighting in 1898.
  • The height of the minaret reaches 45 meters.
  • The fountain (šadrvan) in the courtyard is used for ritual ablutions.
  • Severely damaged in the 1992 Bosnian War, but restored in 1996.

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Sights in the town Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (10)

Gazi Husrev Bey's (Kuršumli) Madrasa

Cultural property in Bosnia and Herzegovina, historic Quranic school.

Gazi Khusrev-beg's Khanqa

Historic dervish monastery in Sarajevo, part of the complex.

Sarajevo Clock Tower

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

Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

Mosque in Sarajevo, a major Ottoman building.

Museum of the Jews of Bosnia and Herzegovina🏛 museum

Synagogue and museum in Sarajevo, testament to Jewish life.

🕒 Apr 15-Sep 15: Mo-Fr 10:00-18:00; Sa off; Su 10:00-13:00; Se

Old Orthodox Church

Church in Sarajevo, an old Orthodox place of worship.

Galerija Novi Hram

Art museum in Bosnia and Herzegovina, exhibiting contemporary art.

Museum of the Old Serbian Orthodox Church Sarajevo🏛 museum

Museum in Sarajevo, displaying religious art and history.

Museum of Sarajevo🏛 museum

Museum in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, city history.

Tašlihan

Archaeological site in Sarajevo, remains of a caravanserai.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the mosque built?
It was completed in 1531 and is a landmark of Sarajevo.
Can non-Muslims enter?
Yes, outside of prayer times, visiting is possible for a fee.
What is the dress code?
Shoulders and knees must be covered; women should wear a headscarf.
Who was Gazi Husrev-beg?
An Ottoman governor who significantly developed Sarajevo in the 16th century.
Is there a museum there?
Yes, the Gazi Husrev-beg Museum is located right across from the mosque.
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque: where is it located?
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gazi Husrev Bey's (Kuršumli) Madrasa, Gazi Khusrev-beg's Khanqa, Sarajevo Clock Tower.
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, frequently referred to simply as the Beg Mosque, is the most important and largest classical Ottoman architectural structure in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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