Sarajevo is for the phoenixes
Ready your backpacks and hustle off to the wonders of Sarajevo if…
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Sarajevo's Vrelo Bosne, where nature orchestrates its own symphony of tranquility. As you amble along the winding paths, it's like being wrapped in a zen cocoon crafted from flowing waters and whispering leaves. Here, even the most restless souls find peace, basking in the serenity of nature's embrace.
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Baščaršija, the time machine of Sarajevo! Stroll these cobblestone streets and you'll feel like you've donned a historical hat. With each step, you're transported back in time amid the tales whispered by ancient mosques and centuries-old buildings. The aroma of coffee mingling with echoes from yesteryears will make you nostalgic in no time.
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Sarajevo, the city of contrasts, where scars and vitality play a captivating duet. Behold the Sarajevo Roses, nature's quirky reminder of resilience amid the echoes of war. And atop Trebević Mountain? It's like staring at life's Instagram feed, the city's scars and vibrancy merging into a captivating contrast that'll have you pondering the beauty born from life's stark contradictions.
So, you’re on a quest for resilience? Or want to rise from the ashes? I know the feeling. I was 25 and smack in the middle of the so-called 'real world'—juggling career options like a circus performer, caught up in cringeworthy infatuations with all the wrong people, and facing the abyss of cluelessness (even with a PhD tag) while trying to wing it every single hour of the day.
‘Oh for God’s sake, be an adult, toughen up’, serious people told me.
I moved to Sarajevo.
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Restaurants, coffee and brunch spots, and bars in Sarajevo 🍽️
Where to listen to podcasts while enjoying a stroll in Sarajevo 🏞️ 🎧
Feeling like you need to figure things out, too? Buckle up because Sarajevo is a rollercoaster ride through history, culture, and a whole bunch of unpredictable gems. If you’re aiming to toughen up your spirit while exploring this vibrant Bosnian city which has inspired incredible books and movies, find yourself a place to stay and get ready for an unconventional journey.
Inevitably, you should first take a stroll through history. Start by wandering through Baščaršija, the Ottoman bazaar. This isn’t your typical window-shopping spree – it’s time travel with a side of authentic Bosnian coffee. The labyrinthine streets and historic buildings will teach you a thing or two about resilience just by navigating them without getting lost (or perhaps despite getting lost). Visit artisan workshops, sip traditional Bosnian coffee, and shop for unique souvenirs. Admire the stunning Ottoman architecture and serene atmosphere of one of Sarajevo's most significant mosques, Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, built in the 16th century.
Baščaršija
Located in Baščaršija, the wooden fountain of Sebilj is an iconic symbol of Sarajevo. It's a popular spot for photos and offers a glimpse into the city's architectural heritage. Nearby, visit Latin Bridge, the site where Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated in 1914, an event that triggered World War I. The bridge is a historic landmark and offers beautiful views of the Miljacka River.
Pay your respects at Eternal Flame. This monument dedicated to the military and civilian victims of the Second World War. It's a significant spot for reflection and remembrance in Sarajevo. As a poignant reminder of the more recent, 1990s war, discover the hauntingly beautiful Sarajevo Roses, scars of the war where mortar shell explosions left behind red resin-filled craters, now memorialized across the city streets.
Head out to the Sarajevo War Tunnel (Tunnel of Hope), a poignant reminder of the city's struggle during the 1992-95 siege. It’s a living history lesson, teaching resilience through the darkest times. Learn about the city's resilience during the siege of Sarajevo by visiting this tunnel, an essential lifeline during the war.
Sarajevo Ferhadija
Once you have learned about the wars and their consequences, hit the museums. Visit the War Childhood Museum to witness the remarkable stories of children during wartime. Feel the strength of their experiences and leave with an awe-inspiring dose of resilience and perhaps shed some tears along the way, as I often did when I was reminded of the war.
You can also explore Museum of Sarajevo 1878–1918 and learn the history of Sarajevo during the Austro-Hungarian rule through artifacts, documents, and exhibitions. Don’t forget to marvel at the Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica). This stunning Austro-Hungarian building was once a library and now serves as a symbol of Sarajevo's revival after the war. The interior features breathtaking architecture and exhibitions.
Grab a book and learn more about the city while sipping on tea or eating local delicacies. You can also catch a performance or take a guided tour of Sarajevo National Theater, showcasing the city's cultural scene and architectural beauty. Watching a performance in this historical theatre, which has weathered wars and tumultuous times, will inspire you to face life's challenges head-on.
Sarajevo hills
And then, there’s the food - grub galore! Strengthen your stomach, literally and metaphorically, by diving into Bosnian cuisine. Try ćevapi, burek, and other local delights. Building resilience requires trying new things, and hey, who knows, maybe your taste buds will become as tough as nails. I, for once, became a ćevapi lover on my road to adulthood, and here’s how you can too.
Ćevapi is a traditional grilled dish made from minced meat, typically a mixture of beef and lamb, seasoned with various spices like garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. These small, finger-sized sausages are grilled to perfection, resulting in a flavorful combination of smoky and juicy meat. Ćevapi are commonly served with somun, a type of flatbread, diced onions, and often accompanied by kajmak, a creamy dairy spread. This dish is not just a culinary delight but also an integral part of Bosnian cuisine, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for its rich taste and cultural significance, making it a must-try delicacy when exploring the diverse flavors of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Sarajevo’s hills have resilience too. Hike up the mountains of Jahorina or Trebević for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Hike or take a cable car ride up for panoramic views of Sarajevo. The city is wonderful if you are a fan of hikes and walks in general - enjoy your strolls while listening to a podcast or talking to friends.
Trebević
Whatever you choose to do, engage with Sarajevans – they’re a fantastic bunch. Strike up conversations in cafés, share stories, and witness their enduring spirit firsthand. You might even get invited to a local gathering; that’s where the real resilience lessons are shared. Brace yourself for a gift beyond measure: an unrivaled sense of humor straight from the heart of Sarajevo. Sure, you might shed a tear or two while visiting this city, but mark my words, bellyaching laughter will become your constant companion. I kid you not, I've never experienced chuckles of that magnitude anywhere else on this planet.
Remember, resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s about bouncing back with style and a smile. And in Sarajevo, amidst its charm, history, and people, you’ll find the perfect ingredients to toughen up your spirit while having a blast. So, go on, embrace the adventure – resilience awaits in the most unexpected corners of this incredible city.
And you, have you ventured into the soul that weaves through Sarajevo's essence? Have you traversed the intricate pathways and timeless cultural heritage that color the city's vibrant fabric? Share your reflections below, and don't forget: each day presents an opportunity to wander through this magnificent world, seeking solace in its compelling resilience.
