Vijecnica (city Hall)

The City Hall, known as Vijećnica in Bosnian, is the most magnificent building constructed in Sarajevo during the Austro-Hungarian occupation and serves as a symbolic meeting point of civilizations.

 

The project was the work of Aleksandar Wittek, who designed the seat of the Sarajevo city administration in a pseudo-Moorish style, combining architectural elements from both the East and the West.

 

Since its opening on April 20, 1896, the building has become the most significant symbol of Sarajevo, an iconic landmark captured in countless photographs of the city.

 

After World War II, the National and University Library of Bosnia and Herzegovina was housed within the Vijećnica.

 

During the last war, on the night of August 25-26, 1992, the Vijećnica was set on fire. Almost 90 percent of the library's collection was lost in the devastating fire, and the building itself became a symbol of the siege and tragedy of Sarajevo.

 

The reconstruction of the Vijećnica began in 1996, and the grand reopening of the restored building took place on May 9, 2014, on the Day of Europe and the Day of Victory over Fascism.

 

The restored Vijećnica stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Sarajevo to preserve their cultural heritage. Today, it serves as a cultural and historical monument, housing various events, exhibitions, and gatherings that promote the rich cultural diversity and artistic expressions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It stands as a reminder of the city's turbulent history and its enduring spirit.