Eternal Flame - man standing beside wall outdoors
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Eternal Flame

4.7
·6k reviews·Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A solemn WWII memorial in Sarajevo with a flame that burns continuously, symbolizing eternal remembrance for victims.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Nighttime

Flame glows beautifully

CrowdLow
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Eternal Flame - man standing beside wall outdoors

Eternal Flame

Best Time

Nighttime

Flame glows beautifully

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A solemn WWII memorial in Sarajevo with a flame that burns continuously, symbolizing eternal remembrance for victims.

4.7
(6k reviews)

"A powerful and moving memorial in the heart of Sarajevo, honoring WWII victims with a flame that never goes out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🙏 Be Respectful

This is a memorial. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor during your visit.

💡 Visit at Night

The flame is especially beautiful and meaningful when lit up at night.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Eternal Flame

The Eternal Flame

A constant flame symbolizing eternal remembrance for WWII victims. A powerful, moving sight.

Historical Inscriptions

Historical Inscriptions

Detailed descriptions on the wall offer important historical facts about the sacrifices made.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visit

This is a solemn memorial site. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor and read the historical inscriptions. It's a place for quiet reflection on the sacrifices made during WWII.

Timing Your Visit

While the Eternal Flame burns continuously, visiting at night offers a particularly poignant experience as the flame glows beautifully against the dark. Consider a brief stop during the day for historical context.

Best Times

When
Nighttime
Why
Flame glows beautifully
Crowd
Low
When
Daytime
Why
Understand historical context
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

How long does the hike to Eternal Flame Falls take?

🙏 Be Respectful

This is a memorial. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor during your visit. Reddit

💡 Visit at Night

The flame is especially beautiful and meaningful when lit up at night. Reddit

📖 Read the History

Take time to read the inscriptions for a deeper understanding of its significance. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

🙏 Be Respectful

This is a memorial. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor during your visit. Reddit

💡 Visit at Night

The flame is especially beautiful and meaningful when lit up at night. Reddit

📖 Read the History

Take time to read the inscriptions for a deeper understanding of its significance. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently describe the Eternal Flame as a powerful and moving WWII memorial in the heart of Sarajevo. It's praised for its continuous flame symbolizing eternal remembrance and its important historical inscriptions. While small, it's considered a must-visit for understanding the city's deep history and spirit of resistance.

"A war memorial in the heart of the city. The fire is lighted constantly and there is a long description on the wall. Make sure to respect the monument which includes important historical facts."

Iris Alexanidou

"A powerful and moving memorial in the heart of Sarajevo. Vječna Vatra honors the military and civilian victims of WWII with a flame that never goes out, symbolizing eternal remembrance. A must-visit for anyone wanting to connect with the city’s deep and complex history."

Harun Tucakovic

"Vječna Vatra, or the Eternal Flame, is a powerful World War II memorial in the heart of Sarajevo. It burns continuously to honor the military and civilian victims who fought against fascism. Surrounded by historic buildings and busy streets, the flame offers a solemn pause in the city’s rhythm. It’s a symbolic and emotional site that reflects Sarajevo’s spirit of resistance and remembrance. Stop by at night—the flame glows beautifully and feels especially meaningful."

Murat Kurnaz

What People Like

Powerful symbolism
Historical significance
Poignant nighttime glow

What People Dislike

Can be brief visit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Eternal Flame is centrally located in Sarajevo, making it easily accessible on foot from many parts of the city center. It's situated near the Sarajevo City Hall and the Latin Bridge. Public transport options are also available nearby.

Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or walk if you are staying nearby. If driving, look for paid parking garages in the city center.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Eternal Flame is an outdoor memorial and is freely accessible to the public at all times. There are no admission fees. Reddit

The Eternal Flame burns continuously, 24/7. The site itself is always accessible, though visiting at night offers a unique ambiance. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

A visit to the Eternal Flame is typically brief, often around 15-30 minutes, allowing time to observe the flame and read the historical inscriptions. Reddit

The Eternal Flame, or Vječna Vatra, is a memorial dedicated to the military and civilian victims of World War II who fought against fascism. It symbolizes eternal remembrance. Reddit+1

Yes, photography is generally permitted. However, visitors are reminded to be respectful of the memorial's solemn nature. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Absolutely! The Eternal Flame is located in the heart of Sarajevo's old town, Baščaršija, which is brimming with traditional Bosnian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. You'll find plenty of dining options within a short walking distance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For dramatic photos, nighttime is ideal when the flame is illuminated and creates a beautiful contrast. Daytime visits allow for capturing the surrounding historic architecture. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Eternal Flame is a solemn memorial, so it's a good opportunity to teach children about the importance of remembering history and honoring sacrifices. While there's no specific play area, the open space around it allows for a brief, respectful pause. Reading the inscriptions together can be an educational moment about World War II. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler, the Eternal Flame offers a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and reflection. It's easily accessible and doesn't require a significant time commitment, making it ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary. Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and read the historical context. Reddit+1

📸 Photographers

For photographers, the Eternal Flame presents a unique subject, especially at night when the flame is beautifully illuminated. Capture the contrast between the fire and the surrounding historic architecture. Daytime shots can focus on the details of the inscriptions and the memorial's design. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Symbolism of Vječna Vatra

The Eternal Flame (Vječna Vatra) is more than just a memorial; it's a potent symbol of remembrance and resilience for Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Lit to honor the victims of World War II, the flame's continuous burn represents the enduring memory of those who fought against fascism and sacrificed their lives. It stands as a stark reminder of the horrors of war and the importance of peace.

Located in a prominent city center spot, the memorial is surrounded by historic buildings, placing it within the pulse of daily life while serving as a constant, solemn presence. Visitors often describe it as a powerful and moving experience, offering a moment of reflection amidst the bustling city. The inscriptions accompanying the flame provide crucial historical context, detailing the sacrifices made and reinforcing the memorial's significance. Reddit+1

Many find visiting at night particularly impactful, as the glow of the flame creates a deeply atmospheric and emotional scene. It's a place that connects the present to the past, encouraging contemplation on history and its lessons. Reddit

Historical Context and Significance

The Eternal Flame in Sarajevo was inaugurated on April 6, 1946, marking the first anniversary of the liberation of Yugoslavia from Nazi Germany. It was erected to commemorate the military and civilian victims of World War II who fought against the Axis powers. The date of its inauguration is also significant as it is the day Sarajevo was liberated in 1945.

This memorial is a crucial part of Sarajevo's historical narrative, reflecting the city's role in the anti-fascist struggle. Its presence serves as a constant reminder of the immense human cost of war and the importance of preserving peace and freedom. The inscriptions detail the historical facts, ensuring that the sacrifices are not forgotten. Reddit

Beyond its WWII significance, the Eternal Flame has also become a symbol of the city's enduring spirit, particularly in the face of later conflicts. It represents a commitment to remembering history and honoring those who defended the nation. Reddit

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