Sarajevo as the city represents a mix of different cultures, nations and religions, which has always attracted tourists to visit it, and writers and journalists to write about it. The American non-profit media organization Fair Observer characterized the capital of BiH as one of the most interesting cities in Europe.
In the introduction, the author of the text reminded of war, suffering and siege of Sarajevo, but emphasized that citizens of Sarajevo want to move forward, and that long culture and diversity are giving hope and courage to do it.
“Having been nicknamed the “Jerusalem of the West” when it was still a part of former Yugoslavia, Sarajevo is home to three main ethnic groups: Bosnian Muslims, who make up the majority of the city, Orthodox Serbians and Croatian Catholics. Where this diversity is most visible and felt is the municipality of Stari Grad, or the Old City, which is the most historically significant part of Sarajevo. Stari Grad is split into two: The eastern half is influenced by the Ottomans, while the western part showcases architecture from when the Austro-Hungarians ruled. As a result, Stari Grad is a meeting place between East and West,” as stated by Fair Observer.
Like everyone else, the journalist of Fair Observer was fascinated by the vicinity in which are mosques, cathedrals and orthodox churches.
“Bascarsija, the Turkish market sector—where Ottoman General Isa-Beg Isakovic founded the city in the 15th century—sits at the heart of Stari Grad. The Ottomans ruled for 400 years, and their lasting presence is felt in this part of the city, which was reserved solely for commerce. In 1878, Sarajevo suddenly became part of Austria-Hungary, which led to a dramatic change in the style of architecture. But that wasn’t all: The new rulers also brought better infrastructure, new technology and industry to Sarajevo, which made the city a testing ground for innovations. Due to this, Sarajevo was the first city in Europe to have an electrified tram system in 1885. Some of the best examples of Austro-Hungarian architecture can be found along the Miljacka River,” said the author.
Fair Observer finally concludes that because of this history and diversity, the city has an optimistic future.
(Source: klix.ba/fairobserver.com/Photo: Hanieh Khosroshahi)
