…spot where World War I started…
In the heart of Sarajevo, the Museum ‘Sarajevo 1878–1918’ stands as a compelling testament to the city’s captivating history during the Austro-Hungarian rule. Housed within the former Schiller Shop, this museum holds a unique place in the city’s heritage. It’s the very spot where, on June 28, 1914, the Sarajevo Assassination took place – the fatal event that saw the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife, Sophie, by Gavrilo Princip, a student from Sarajevo and a member of the organization Mlada Bosna (Young Bosnia). This event set off a chain reaction leading to the outbreak of World War I.
Exhibits and Themes
The museum’s permanent exhibition provides a captivating journey through the history of Austro-Hungarian rule in Sarajevo. It’s divided into several thematic sections, each offering a unique perspective:
- “Resistance to Occupation”: Explore the initial resistance faced during the occupation.
- “New Administrative Governance”: Delve into the changes brought about by the new administration.
- “Cultural Life”: Discover the vibrant cultural and social scene of the time.
- “Cultural and Religious-Educational Societies, Printing Houses, and Publishing”: Uncover the role of cultural and educational institutions, printing, and publishing.
- “Industry and Architecture”: Learn about the industrial and architectural developments.
- “Annexation and the Bosnian Assembly”: Explore the annexation and the role of the Bosnian Assembly.
- “Assassination of Franz Ferdinand and Sophie”: Step into the events leading up to the infamous assassination.
- “World War I”: Understand the impact of World War I on Sarajevo and its people.
Adjacent to the museum, on the Latin Bridge opposite the assassination site, you’ll find the monument to Franz Ferdinand and Sophie. Though it was removed after the formation of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, it remains a significant part of the city’s history.
Among the museum’s most intriguing exhibits are life-sized dolls representing Franz Ferdinand and Sophie, as well as the preserved footprints imprinted in concrete near the museum.
