…The oldest under-domed mosque in Bosnia & Herzegovina…
Located on the edge of Baščaršija, at the foot of Kovači Street, the Čekrekčija Mosque is a historical gem. Built in 1526 by Muslihudin Hadži Mustafa Čekrekčija, the mosque is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the city’s enduring history.
One of the mosque’s most remarkable features is its original vakufnama (endowment deed), preserved to this day. Dated Zul-Qa’da 932 (August 1526), this document is one of the oldest surviving written records in Sarajevo, adding immense historical value to the site.
The Čekrekčija Mosque stands out for several reasons.
It is the oldest preserved domed mosque in Sarajevo and differs from others in its lack of a courtyard, as it is surrounded by shops.
Its dome is shallower than most, and instead of the traditional finial, a pulley is mounted on top—a nod to its founder’s profession as a čekrekčija (pulley maker). Unlike many other buildings in Sarajevo, this mosque miraculously survived the devastating raids of Eugene of Savoy.
The mosque’s minaret is also distinctive, cutting through the dome in a way that is rarely seen, likely due to the constraints of the space available during its construction.
Inside, the mosque reveals layers of history through its walls. Conservation and restoration efforts have uncovered five layers of paintings, created by various craftsmen over the centuries.
The most visible today are from the 19th century, showcasing intricate floral motifs and arabesques.
