Emperor's Mosque Careva
Sarajevo's oldest mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and a vibrant community hub.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Emperor's Mosque Careva
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sarajevo's oldest mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and a vibrant community hub.
"The exterior and interior of this masjid was beautiful. Well kept and clean!"
🧕 Headscarf Essential
Women, bring a headscarf for respectful entry. Many find it a beautiful place to pray.
🚻 Wudu Facilities
Convenient separate men's and women's toilets for wudu, a rare find in Sarajevo mosques.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ottoman Architecture
Admire the classic Ottoman design, a testament to Sarajevo's rich history.
Spacious Courtyard
A lovely spot for families to relax, with a coffee machine for added comfort.
Community Hub
Experience a vibrant community atmosphere with people gathering and attending classes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Best Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧕 Headscarf Essential
Women, bring a headscarf for respectful entry. Many find it a beautiful place to pray.
🚻 Wudu Facilities
Convenient separate men's and women's toilets for wudu, a rare find in Sarajevo mosques.
☕ Courtyard Coffee
Enjoy the lovely courtyard, complete with a coffee machine for a relaxing break.
📸 Architectural Beauty
The mosque's exterior and interior are stunning. Capture its Ottoman-inspired infrastructure.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧕 Headscarf Essential
Women, bring a headscarf for respectful entry. Many find it a beautiful place to pray.
🚻 Wudu Facilities
Convenient separate men's and women's toilets for wudu, a rare find in Sarajevo mosques.
☕ Courtyard Coffee
Enjoy the lovely courtyard, complete with a coffee machine for a relaxing break.
📸 Architectural Beauty
The mosque's exterior and interior are stunning. Capture its Ottoman-inspired infrastructure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Emperor's Mosque for its stunning Ottoman architecture and its role as a vibrant community hub. The mosque is noted for being well-kept, clean, and offering excellent amenities like separate wudu facilities for men and women, which are highly appreciated. The lovely courtyard is also a highlight, providing a pleasant space for relaxation.
"The exterior and interior of this masjid was beautiful. Well kept and clean- alot of space for women to pray!!
They have womens and mens toilets to do wudhu which is amazing as other masjids in Sarajevo don’t have that luxury.
It was lovely to see that this masjid seemed to be more community based as there were many people sitting outside in the courtyard enjoying each other’s company. There was a gathering in the masjid so they must be using this masjid for classes etc!"
Aisha
"Beautiful mosque to visit. Very similar in structure to other mosques in the area. ottoman inspired infrastructure"
Ray choudhury
"Visited during the Christmas holidays.
Lots of snow during this time.
Mosque is beautiful with all the facilities"
Syed Ayyaz Hussain Shah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Emperor's Mosque (Careva Džamija) is centrally located in Sarajevo's Old Town (Baščaršija), making it easily accessible on foot from most tourist accommodations. If coming from further afield, local buses and trams stop frequently near the Baščaršija area. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, it's right in the heart of the Old Town, very close to Sebilj fountain, Baščaršija market, and the Latin Bridge. You can easily combine a visit with exploring these iconic Sarajevo landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Emperor's Mosque is free. It is an active place of worship, so donations are appreciated but not required.
The mosque is generally open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's best to check local listings or inquire on-site for the most accurate hours, as they can vary.
Yes, modest dress is required. Women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. Men should wear long trousers and cover their shoulders.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautiful Ottoman-style Islamic architecture, prayer spaces, and a serene atmosphere. The exterior and interior are both noted for their beauty.
Yes, the mosque offers separate women's and men's toilets for wudu, which is a convenient amenity.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's important to be respectful and avoid taking pictures during prayer times or of individuals without their consent.
Absolutely. The mosque has a lovely courtyard that's great for families, and there's even a coffee machine available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the mosque is located in Baščaršija, Sarajevo's historic bazaar, which is packed with traditional Bosnian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries offering delicious local cuisine like ćevapi and burek.
While not a cafe, there is a coffee machine available in the courtyard for visitors to use.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire exterior, especially the main entrance and minaret, offers great photo opportunities. The courtyard with its arches and the interior prayer hall are also picturesque.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light for photography, creating a warm glow on the mosque's facade. Avoid midday sun for softer shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With convenient wudu facilities and even a coffee machine in the courtyard, parents can ensure comfort for themselves and their children during their visit. It's a chance to experience a beautiful piece of history in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
🙏 Devout Muslims
The well-maintained prayer areas and the availability of clean wudu facilities for both men and women ensure a comfortable and respectful experience for prayer. Visitors often comment on the serene atmosphere, making it ideal for contemplation and connection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ottoman History
Visiting the Emperor's Mosque offers a tangible connection to this rich heritage. The well-kept exterior and interior speak to ongoing preservation efforts, ensuring its beauty endures. It's not just a historical site but a place that continues to serve its community, with many people gathering in the courtyard and attending classes, highlighting its ongoing role.
For those interested in the historical significance of mosques in the Balkans, the Emperor's Mosque is a must-see. Its longevity and architectural style are representative of the broader Ottoman influence in the region, providing context for understanding the cultural landscape of Sarajevo and beyond.
Community and Comfort
A particularly appreciated feature is the availability of separate men's and women's toilets for wudu. This practical amenity is highlighted by visitors as a significant convenience, especially when compared to other mosques in Sarajevo that may lack such facilities. The presence of a coffee machine in the courtyard further enhances the visitor experience, offering a comfortable spot to rest and soak in the surroundings.
This blend of spiritual significance, historical depth, and thoughtful amenities makes the Emperor's Mosque a unique and memorable destination. It offers a peaceful retreat and a genuine glimpse into the daily life and traditions of Sarajevo's Muslim community.
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