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National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina

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National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

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The National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo, established in 1888 during the Austro-Hungarian administration, is the oldest and most prominent modern cultural and scientific institution in the country. The magnificent museum complex, designed in 1913 by the renowned Czech architect Karel Pařík in a Neo-Renaissance style, consists of four interconnected pavilions that enclose a central, lush botanical garden. The museum is structured into four main departments: Archaeology, Ethnology, Natural History, and a scientific library. The absolute centerpiece and most priceless treasure of the collection is the famous 'Sarajevo Haggadah', a richly illuminated 14th-century Jewish manuscript that miraculously found its way to Bosnia following the expulsion from Spain. Despite enduring severe damage during the 1990s war and later facing financial crises that temporarily forced its closure, the museum remains the primary guardian of the nation's cultural and historical heritage.

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 National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina houses extensive archaeological, ethnographic, and natural history collections. Visitors can explore multiple pavilions and the botanical garden.
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Typical hours
Museum hours are fixed; typically open Tuesday to Sunday. Check the official website for current timings and any closures.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in most galleries without flash. Some special exhibitions may restrict photography.
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Time needed
Allow at least 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit. The archaeological collection alone is vast.
Combine with
The museum is near the Sarajevo city center and the Latin Bridge. Combine with a visit to the nearby Eternal Flame.
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Getting there
Located on the main street of Sarajevo (Zmaja od Bosne), accessible by tram or car. Parking available nearby.
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Insider tip
The Sarajevo Haggadah is a must-see exhibit. Ask about free admission days or special events.

Geography

Coordinates
43.85500, 18.40220

Facts

  • Founded in 1888, during Austro-Hungarian rule.
  • The current complex was designed in 1913 by Czech architect Karel Pařík.
  • It consists of four symmetrical pavilions for archaeology, ethnology, natural sciences, and a library.
  • The museum was closed between 2012 and 2015 due to funding issues.
  • It houses the famous 14th-century Sarajevo Haggadah.
  • Its collection includes over 3 million artifacts.
  • The Botanical Garden has over 2000 plant species, including many endemic ones.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina (10)

Odjeljenje za arheologiju🏛 museum

Archaeology department of the National Museum with prehistoric finds.

🕒 Mo off; Tu-Fr 10:00-19:00; Sa-Su 10:00-18:00💶

Biblioteka i uprava🏛 museum

Library and administration of the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina🏛 museum

Main museum of the country with natural history, archaeology, and ethnography collections.

Ars Aevi Bridge

Pedestrian bridge over the Miljacka, connecting the museum to the city.

Stećak of Zgošća replica

Replica of a medieval Bosnian tombstone (stećak).

Most Suade Dilberović i Olge Sučić

Bridge over the Miljacka, named after two women from Sarajevo.

Crkva svetog Josipa

20th-century Roman Catholic church in the Marijin Dvor neighborhood.

Magribija

Mosque in the Koševo neighborhood, built during the Ottoman period.

Prof. Dr. Nijaz Duraković Park🌳 park

Park in the Marijin Dvor neighborhood, named after a Bosnian politician.

Alipašina džamija

Mosque in the Alipašino Polje neighborhood, built in the 1990s.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the museum's most important exhibit?
The most significant item is the Sarajevo Haggadah, a Jewish manuscript from the 14th century.
What are the opening hours?
Usually Tuesday to Friday 10 AM - 7 PM, weekends 10 AM - 2 PM. Closed on Mondays.
Is there an outdoor area?
Yes, the museum features a beautiful botanical garden in its courtyard.
How much does a ticket cost?
A standard ticket for adults costs around 8-10 KM.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Partially; some areas are easily accessible, while others require climbing stairs.
National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina: where is it located?
National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina: what is there to see?
Highlights include Odjeljenje za arheologiju, Biblioteka i uprava, National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina: why is it worth visiting?
The National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo, established in 1888 during the Austro-Hungarian administration, is the oldest and most prominent modern cultural and scientific institution in the country.
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