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Sarajevo City Hall is a masterpiece of history and resilience, nestled in the heart of Bosnia & Herzegovina, in Sarajevo.
This majestic building, inaugurated on April 20, 1896, served as an administrative hub, witnessing the ebb and flow of time until the tumultuous events of the 20th century reshaped its destiny.
A Night of Tragedy and Renewal
In the dark hours of August 25 and 26, 1992, Gradska Vijećnica faced a devastating blow as fiery artillery projectiles struck its core.
The firestorm consumed the building, and with it, the invaluable treasures of the National University Library, including around 2 million priceless items. The loss was immense, and the scars of destruction left a profound impact on the city’s cultural heritage.
A Tale of Restoration and Rebirth
From the ashes of devastation emerged the spirit of resilience and determination. In 1996, the arduous journey of restoration began, and for nearly two decades, skilled hands worked tirelessly to recreate the splendor of the original structure.
Guided by meticulous archival documents, the restoration process lovingly revived every intricate detail. Finally, on May 9, 2014, a momentous occasion marked the grand reopening of Gradska Vijećnica on Europe Day and the Day of Victory over Fascism.
Today’s Gradska Vijećnica
Step inside the reawakened Gradska Vijećnica, now a beacon of pride and cultural significance.
This magnificent edifice serves as a venue for state and city-level events, proudly hosting cultural, artistic, and economic showcases.
On August 25, 2023, the 31st anniversary of the City Hall’s burning, the permanent exhibition “Vijećnica” was reopened, evoking mixed emotions with its historical facts and records, offering a unique glimpse into Sarajevo’s past.
