Sarajevo · Ottoman heritage · History
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
Visit Sarajevo's most important Ottoman mosque, built in 1531. Entry fee, visiting hours, dress code and what to see inside the courtyard.
- Time needed
- 20 to 30 minutes
- Best time
- Mid-morning, between prayers
- Region
- Sarajevo
Why visit Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque?
The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque is the most important Ottoman building in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It was finished in 1531 for Gazi Husrev-beg, the Ottoman governor who did more than anyone to build Sarajevo into a real city. It was designed by Ajem Esir Ali, a Persian architect who also worked in Istanbul, and it is still the main mosque of Sarajevo.
Things to do
- The prayer hall: A large central dome with painted decoration and carpets. Visitors can go inside between prayers.
- The courtyard and šadrvan: The fountain under a wooden roof where worshippers wash before prayer. It is one of the most photographed spots in the city.
- Gazi Husrev-beg's tomb (turbe): The founder is buried in the courtyard, next to his friend Murat-beg Tardić.
- The Clock Tower (Sahat kula): Right next to the mosque. It keeps lunar time, meaning 12:00 is set at sunset, and is one of the only clock towers in the world that still does this.
- Gazi Husrev-beg Museum and Madrasa: Across the street. A small museum on the founder and his endowments.
Fun fact: in 1898 it became one of the first mosques in the world lit by electric light.
Getting there
In Baščaršija, 2 minutes from the Sebilj.
Practical info
- Entry
- 3 to 5 KM per person, paid at the info desk in the courtyard
- Open
- Daily for visitors from about 9:00 until evening, closed to tourists during the five daily prayers
- Dress code
- Shoulders and knees covered. Shoes off inside. Women should cover their hair (scarves available at the door)
- Last checked
- October 2026. Prices and hours change, so confirm before you go.
FAQ
Can non-Muslims visit the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque?
Yes. Visitors of any faith are welcome outside of prayer times.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Cover shoulders and knees, take your shoes off, and women should cover their hair.
Who built the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque?
It was built in 1530 to 1531 for Gazi Husrev-beg, the Ottoman governor of Bosnia, and designed by the Persian architect Ajem Esir Ali.
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