Cornerstone for reconstruction of Arnaudija mosque in Banja Luka, which was destroyed in 1993, might be laid in spring.
Director of the Waqf Directorate of the Islamic Community in BiH Senaid Zajimović says that Arnaudija, along with Ferhadija, was the gem of culture and history of BiH and that its reconstruction is truly important.
Zajimović also said that the Directorate has major plans for reconstruction and construction of religious, cultural-educational, historical and business facilities that will generate income and employ people.
Speaking of religious facilities, Zajimović said that apart from Arnaudija mosque the reconstruction of Baščaršijska or Havadže Duraka mosque in Sarajevo will also begin soon, and that is another one of the priorities of the Waqf Directorate.
Project documentation is made and if the federal Ministry of Physical Planning gives consent the works should begin in spring. Tender procedure will be implemented in January and February 2017.
At the same time, reconstruction of Šarena mosque in Travnik will also begin. This project is much more demanding than the Baščaršijska mosque.
“Our desire is to implement as many projects as possible, projects which are in the interest of the society and the state. All national monuments are of great significance for the society, those are all cultural facilities, as well as potential tourist destinations. Religious tourism is on the rise and waqf facilities are very important destinations in that regard,” said Zajimović.
In that context, Zajimović said that a while ago the Waqf Directorate was in Ankara, negotiating about the adaptation and repair of Alipašina mosque in Sarajevo. The dome and walls have cracked and that is a sign that urgent intervention has to be made to protect this facility.
To facilities which are among the most important ones, such as Aladža mosque, Arnaudija, Sinanbegova mosque, the Waqf Directorate, in cooperation with majlises and other organs of the Islamic Community and national and entity institutions, wants to restore the significance and dignity that belongs to them.
(Source: klix.ba)
