Old Synagogue in Sarajevo, 16th-century synagogue in Baščaršija, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Old Synagogue in Sarajevo is a three-story building with traditional Balkan architectural elements, large decorative arches, and a high ceiling featuring a ten-pointed star pattern. The structure sits in the Baščaršija neighborhood and displays characteristic features of regional building style.
The building was constructed in 1581 and was the first Jewish temple in Sarajevo. It underwent multiple rebuilding phases after fires in 1697 and 1788, with these events significantly changing the site's appearance over time.
The building now houses the Jewish Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, showing objects and documents about Jewish life in the region. Visitors can explore traces of the community that lived in Sarajevo for centuries.
The museum is best visited during the warmer months when longer opening hours are available. Keep in mind that hours vary by season, so checking ahead is a good idea before planning your visit.
Local authorities officially granted permission for construction, making it the first officially recognized Jewish place of worship in the city. This shows that Sarajevo was a place where different faiths could coexist.
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