Sultan Mehmed Fatih Mosque in Sarajevo

One of the most beautiful mosques in Balkan from the Ottoman period

During the founding of Sarajevo city in the mid-15th century, a Bosnian nobleman Isa Bey Isakovic built the Emperor’s Mosque, dedicated to Sultan Mehmed Fatih. According to the historical data, the mosque was modest in size, without a dome. At the end of the 15th century, it got destroyed by fire. And in 1565, the new mosque was constructed in its place. The architect’s name is unknown, but some assume that he could be an apprentice of Mimar Sinan.

Sultan Mehmed Fatih Mosque (Emperor’s Mosque) is the largest single dome mosque in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It has superior technical construction characteristics of that time, made in the classical Ottoman style. It is known as one of the most beautiful mosques in Balkan, from the Ottoman period. The most exciting features are a roomy interior, well-balanced proportions and high-quality decorative details. We could point out stunning stalactite decorations and beautifully done mihrab.

In 1912 the architect Karl Parzik designed the Majlis Ulema building and successfully incorporated it into the complex of the Emperor’s Mosque. Unfortunately, this mosque was damaged during the war in Bosnia (1992-1996) by the Serbian aggressor. The facade was renovated in 2015, while the interior still awaits its extensive renovation.

Courtyard of the Sultan Mehmed Fatih Mosque (Emperor’s Mosque), Sarajevo. Photo © IslamicArtsMagazine