…A Glimpse into Sarajevo’s 18th and 19th Century Urban Muslim Lifestyle…
Discover the charm of Svrzina Kuća, one of Sarajevo’s most captivating cultural gems, offering tourists a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of a prosperous Muslim family during the Ottoman era. Located in the heart of Sarajevo at Glođina 8, this beautifully preserved 18th-century residence is a branch of the Museum of Sarajevo, showcasing traditional Bosnian architecture and the rich heritage of urban life from the late 18th to 19th centuries.
A Window into Ottoman Life
Svrzina Kuća, originally built by the prominent Glođo family, is a stunning example of Ottoman residential architecture, designed to balance privacy and hospitality.
The house is divided into two distinct sections: the selamluk (public male and guest quarters) and the haremluk (private female and family quarters), reflecting the social customs of the time. Visitors can explore spacious halvati (living rooms), intricate musandras (ornate wooden cabinets), and charming čardaci (balconies with scenic views of Sarajevo).
The house’s courtyards, surrounded by high stone walls, feature a serene šadrvan (fountain) and lush gardens, creating a tranquil atmosphere that transports you back centuries.
This architectural masterpiece, once home to the Glođo family and later the Svrzo family, offers an authentic look at Sarajevo’s Ottoman past. Highlights include the čekme dolat, a clever rotating wall cabinet used to serve food while maintaining privacy between the haremluk and selamluk.
The house’s intricate woodwork, vibrant interiors, and preserved artifacts, many acquired from the Svrzo family, bring the daily life of Sarajevo’s elite to life.
Practical Information for Tourists
- Location: Glođina 8, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (near Ćurčića brijeg, above Baščaršija)
- Opening Hours: April–September: Monday–Friday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM–3:00 PM; October–March: Monday–Friday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM–1:00 PM. Closed Sundays and during renovations (check ahead).
- Admission: Adults: 3 BAM; Children: 1 BAM
- Contact: +387 33 535 264 or reach the Sarajevo Tourism Information Center at +387 33 580 999 (Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–8:00 PM, winter 9:00 AM–5:00 PM)
- Access: A short walk from Baščaršija; accessible by tram (lines 1 or 3 to Baščaršija stop) or taxi
- Tip: Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque or Despića Kuća for a full day of cultural exploration.
