The Congregational Church of the Holy Mother
The foundation-stone was laid on June 25, 1863 and construction was completed 11 years later in 1874.
The designer of this lovely structure was Andrija Damjanović, who came from Veles (Macedonia) and was a member of the reputable Renzovski family. They had designed and embellished churches all over the Balkans – from Macedonia to Bulgaria and from Turkey to Bosnia.
There is an anecdote that tells of how Andrija had a discussion with the Sarajevo Orthodox Church Council about building the new structure. When they asked him to show some plans or sketches, he told them that there were none, for they need only look to the churches in Niš or Smederevo – the same church would be built in Sarajevo, only more beautiful.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Single ticket | 2 KM |
Jednodnevna ulaznica
Single ticket
LOCATION / AREA
Center
PRICE RANGE
Budget
SIGHTSEEING LABEL
Architecture, Religion, History
DISTANCE FROM AIRPORT
7.9km
DISTANCE FROM SARAJEVO BUS STATION
2.2km
Distance from the center
984m
NEAREST PUBLIC TRANSPORT STATION
Tram station Katedrala - 165m
Google reviews
A must-see.
A serene, centuries-old sanctuary tucked right in the heart of Baščaršija. Dating back to at least the early 16th century (and likely older), the Old Orthodox Church of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel is one of the oldest religious structures in Sarajevo. It sits quietly behind high perimeter walls along Mula Mustafe Bašeskije, just steps away from the bustling Sebilj. Architecture & Courtyard: Once you step through the stone gateway, the busy city noise instantly fades. The architecture is unique for Orthodox churches—built low with a square, fortress-like footprint and a sunken nave, reflecting Ottoman-era regulations that non-Muslim places of worship could not tower over nearby mosques. The wooden gallery inside and the carved iconostasis are breathtakingly intricate. The Museum: Don't miss the small museum in the courtyard. It houses one of the world's most valuable collections of Orthodox icons (including notable Cretan school works), old manuscripts, liturgical garments, and silver relic boxes. Visitor Tips: Entering the courtyard and church nave is usually free, but the museum requires a small entry fee (paid in BAM cash). Modest dress is expected (covered shoulders and knees). It makes a fantastic addition if you are doing a walking tour of Sarajevo's historic "multifaith quadrangle" (Mosque, Synagogue, Catholic Cathedral, and Orthodox Church).
One of the most magnificent symbols of Sarajevo's multicultural heritage. It's located right in the heart of the city, near Ferhadiye Street. Its architecture, interior icons, and wall decorations are truly captivating. A must-see if you visit.
