Nestled in the picturesque Mediterranean village of Blagaj, approximately 12.5 km south of Mostar in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina , lies the famed Blagaj Tekke.
This Islamic religious site, which has been home to Sufi scholars – dervishes – for centuries, sits on the right bank, right next to the source of the Buna River, considered one of the largest karst springs in Europe.
Above the Tekija, a rock rises about 240 meters high, where the remains of the medieval town of Stjepan Vukčić Kosača still stand.
The Blagaj Tekija complex was built on the traces of an older Bogomil sanctuary, about which history has not preserved precise data, and expanded after the establishment of Ottoman rule in Herzegovina, as the first written record by Evliya Çelebi dates back to 1466 in his travelogue.
It represents a valuable Islamic architectural structure in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with prominent features stemming from the influence of Baroque on Ottoman architecture, making it one of the few monuments of this style in the country.
Baroque elements were simply added to the existing building, constructed in the traditional style.
Throughout history, the architectural complex surrounding the tekija has been renovated and redesigned multiple times.
Blagaj Tekke was inhabited by dervishes, representing a unique example in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Unlike monastic life in Christian monasteries, dervishes in tekijas do not reside there but gather at certain times for worship, or zikr (celebration of God and His names).
Blagaj Tekke was an exception because, in its earliest days, it belonged to the Bektashi dervish order, where monastic life was developed.
The tekija complex consisted of several buildings: in front was one building at the height of the present tekija, behind which stood another smaller building, followed by a domed mosque, then the existing structures:
the tomb of Sari Saltuk, a traveling dervish from the 13th century, and his successor Ačik-baša, considered the first sheikh of the Tekke in Blagaj, and finally the Tekke itself. All of these five structures formed a unique architectural ensemble.
The tekija operated actively until 1925 when its last sheikh, Sejdo Šehović, passed away.
Since 2003, Blagaj Tekija has been listed as a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Blagaj Tekke is a unique and fascinating site that offers visitors a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
It’s also a beautiful spot to relax, enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, explore settlement Blagaj and enjoy in delicious food.
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If you are a tourist who is visiting a Islamic religious site, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Dress appropriately: In most Islamic religious sites, visitors are required to dress modestly. This means that women should wear long sleeves and pants or a long skirt, and cover their hair with a scarf. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves.
- Remove your shoes: Before entering a Islamic religious site, you should remove your shoes. There is usually a designated area where you can leave them.
- Respect the prayer times: Islamic religious sites have designated prayer times throughout the day, and during these times, visitors are not allowed to enter. It’s important to be aware of the prayer times and plan your visit accordingly.
- Follow the rules: When you enter a Islamic religious site, be sure to follow the rules and guidelines. For example, some Islamic religious sites may require visitors to enter through a specific entrance, or may not allow photography inside.
- Be respectful: Remember that a Islamic religious site is a place of worship for Muslims. Be respectful of the space and the people around you. Avoid loud talking or disruptive behavior.
By following these tips, you can have a respectful and enjoyable experience visiting a Islamic religious site as a tourist.
