Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque - a large white building with two tall towers
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Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

4.8
·4k reviews·Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A magnificent 16th-century Ottoman mosque, the largest in Bosnia, featuring stunning architecture and a unique lunar clock.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque - a large white building with two tall towers

Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent 16th-century Ottoman mosque, the largest in Bosnia, featuring stunning architecture and a unique lunar clock.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"A beautiful and peaceful place to visit in the heart of Sarajevo, well worth the entrance fee."

Vertical photo
TIP

Modest Dress Code

Cover shoulders & knees. Women, bring a headscarf! 🧣

Friday Prayer Info

Jumu'ah prayer starts at 12 PM, fixed time. Women can attend. 🕌

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ottoman Architecture

Ottoman Architecture

Marvel at the stunning 16th-century Ottoman design, a testament to the region's rich history.

Lunar Clock Tower

Lunar Clock Tower

Witness a unique clock that tracks Muslim prayer times, a fascinating historical marvel.

Tranquil Courtyard

Tranquil Courtyard

Find a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling Old Town in this serene and beautifully maintained space.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Attire is Key

Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women will need to cover their heads; scarves are often available to borrow or purchase.

Check Prayer Times

The mosque is an active place of worship. Be mindful of prayer times, especially Friday Jumu'ah prayer, which has a fixed schedule.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
After Jumu'ah prayer
Why
Experience the community vibe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What time is the Friday (Jumuʿah) prayer at Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, Sarajevo on 30th Dec?

Modest Dress Code

Cover shoulders & knees. Women, bring a headscarf! 🧣 Reddit

Friday Prayer Info

Jumu'ah prayer starts at 12 PM, fixed time. Women can attend. 🕌 Reddit

Entrance Fee

Small fee (5 KM) for entry, worth it for architecture! 💰 Reddit

Peaceful Retreat

Enjoy the quiet courtyard, a calm escape in the Old Town. 🕊️ Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Modest Dress Code

Cover shoulders & knees. Women, bring a headscarf! 🧣 Reddit

Friday Prayer Info

Jumu'ah prayer starts at 12 PM, fixed time. Women can attend. 🕌 Reddit

Entrance Fee

Small fee (5 KM) for entry, worth it for architecture! 💰 Reddit

Peaceful Retreat

Enjoy the quiet courtyard, a calm escape in the Old Town. 🕊️ Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque for its stunning Ottoman architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Many highlight the unique Lunar Clock Tower as a fascinating historical feature. While generally a serene experience, some visitors note that the interior can be closed at times, though outdoor prayer is still possible.

"A beautiful mosque from the Ottoman era. The most interesting structure is the Lunar Clock Tower that follows the Muslim prayer time. I find this amazing, and I don’t think there is any as such, anywhere else in the world. Alhamdulillah to be able to perform prayers here."

Rahmah Ramli

"A beautiful and peaceful place to visit in the heart of Sarajevo. When we went, it was quiet and not crowded, which made the experience even more serene. The entrance fee is 5 KM per person, and it’s well worth it to see the stunning Ottoman architecture and tranquil courtyard. It’s a meaningful stop for anyone interested in history and culture."

Ella Yeung

"A beautiful nice Mosque in the middle of the old part of Sarajevo. It's worth a visit! It's located next to cafes and also a place with lots of pigeons."

Isabela

What People Like

Beautiful Ottoman architecture
Peaceful courtyard
Unique Lunar Clock Tower

What People Dislike

Interior sometimes closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The mosque is centrally located in the heart of Sarajevo's Old Town (Baščaršija), making it easily accessible on foot from most city center accommodations. If arriving from further afield, trams and buses frequently service the area.

Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Old Town is limited and often restricted. It's best to use public transport or park in a designated paid parking lot a short walk away.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The mosque is an active place of worship, so hours can vary. It's generally open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's advisable to check locally or be mindful of prayer schedules.

Yes, there is a small entrance fee, typically around 5 KM per person, which contributes to the mosque's upkeep. This fee grants access to the courtyard and interior spaces.

No, advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. You can purchase tickets upon arrival.

Yes, women are welcome to visit. They are required to dress modestly and cover their heads. Scarves are often available for use.

Visitors must dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women are required to cover their heads. Loose-fitting clothing is recommended.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Lunar Clock Tower is a unique historical feature that follows the Muslim prayer times, a fascinating aspect of Ottoman engineering and Islamic tradition.

Inside, you'll find beautiful Islamic calligraphy, intricate geometric patterns, and a serene atmosphere for reflection. The architecture itself is a major draw.

Yes, it's an active mosque. You can perform prayers, and visitors are welcome to join, respecting the prayer times and etiquette.

Yes, restrooms are available for visitors, and they are generally reported to be clean.

Crowds can vary. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter, offering a more peaceful experience. It can get busier around prayer times, especially Friday.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Absolutely! The mosque is situated in the heart of Baščaršija, Sarajevo's old bazaar, which is brimming with traditional Bosnian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries offering delicious local cuisine.

Don't miss trying ćevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (savory pastry), and Bosnian coffee. Many eateries are just steps away from the mosque.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in the courtyard and exterior areas. Inside, it's best to be discreet and respectful, and always check for any posted restrictions.

The courtyard offers beautiful perspectives of the mosque's facade and minaret. The intricate details of the architecture and the Lunar Clock Tower are also great subjects.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque can be a fascinating stop for families, offering a glimpse into a different culture and history. While the interior might require quiet reverence, the courtyard provides space for children to observe the surroundings. The Lunar Clock Tower can be a point of interest, sparking curiosity about how time was tracked historically. Ensure children are dressed modestly and understand the need for quiet behavior within the mosque grounds. The nearby Baščaršija offers plenty of kid-friendly food options for a post-visit treat.

🕌 Religious Visitors

For Muslim visitors, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is a deeply significant site. You can perform your daily prayers here, and the mosque is well-equipped to accommodate worshippers. The Jumu'ah prayer on Fridays is a central event, starting at 12 PM, and women are welcome to attend.Reddit The mosque's serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place for spiritual reflection and connection. Remember to adhere to Islamic etiquette and dress codes.

🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts

This mosque is a must-visit for anyone interested in Ottoman architecture and Balkan history. The intricate details of the Islamic calligraphy, the grandeur of the dome, and the unique Lunar Clock Tower offer a rich visual and historical experience. The mosque's status as the largest in Bosnia and Herzegovina and its role as a central Ottoman complex make it a key site for understanding the region's past. Allow ample time to explore the courtyard and appreciate the craftsmanship.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Ottoman Heritage

The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque stands as a magnificent testament to the Ottoman Empire's architectural prowess in the Balkans. Commissioned by Gazi Husrev-beg, the governor of Bosnia in the 16th century, it was completed in 1532. It's not just a place of worship but a significant cultural and historical landmark, representing the largest mosque in Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of the most important Ottoman complexes in the region. Its construction marked a pivotal moment in the Islamic architectural landscape of the Balkans.

The mosque's design embodies classic Ottoman style, featuring a large central dome, a spacious courtyard, and a tall, slender minaret. The interior is adorned with exquisite Islamic calligraphy and geometric patterns, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Visitors often remark on the peacefulness and beauty of the interior, finding it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation. The surrounding complex also includes a madrasa (Islamic school), a library, and the unique Lunar Clock Tower, which historically tracked prayer times, a feature that continues to fascinate visitors today.Reddit

For travelers interested in history and culture, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque offers a profound connection to the past. It's a living piece of history, still actively used for daily prayers and religious services. The experience of visiting is often described as both visually stunning and spiritually enriching, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling energy of Sarajevo's Old Town.Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Etiquette

Visiting the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is a straightforward yet respectful experience. As an active place of worship, modest dress is paramount. Visitors are expected to cover their shoulders and knees. For women, head coverings are essential, and while many bring their own, scarves are often available for loan or purchase at the entrance.Reddit This ensures that everyone can participate in the spiritual ambiance respectfully.

When it comes to timing, understanding prayer schedules is key. The mosque adheres to fixed prayer times, with the Friday Jumu'ah prayer being a significant event. This prayer typically begins at 12 PM, with the sermon (khutbah) following. It's worth noting that women are welcome to attend Friday prayers, and there are arrangements for them.Reddit Being aware of these times helps in planning your visit to avoid disruption and to witness the community's devotion.

The entrance fee is a modest 5 KM, which is a small price for the privilege of experiencing such a historically and architecturally significant site. This fee directly supports the mosque's maintenance and preservation. Many visitors find the experience well worth the cost, appreciating the opportunity to explore the serene courtyard and admire the intricate details of the mosque's interior.Reddit