# Sarajevo

> capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina

**Wikidata**: [Q11194](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11194)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarajevo)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/sarajevo

## Summary
Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, founded in 1462. It is a major cultural, historical, and political center in the Balkans, known for its diverse heritage, significant events like the 1984 Winter Olympics, and its role as a crossroads of civilizations.

## Key Facts
- **Founded**: 1462
- **Area**: 141.5 square kilometers
- **Population**: 275,524 (2013 census), with historical estimates of 244,000 (1971) and 350,000 (1996)
- **Elevation**: 518–527 meters above sea level
- **Official Languages**: Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian
- **Time Zone**: Central European Time
- **Postal Code**: 71000
- **Local Dialing Code**: 033
- **Coordinates**: 43.85638888888889° N, 18.413055555555555° E
- **Capital Of**: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republika Srpska (de jure), Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and historically other entities like the Ottoman Empire and Yugoslavia
- **Significant Events**: Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (1914), Siege of Sarajevo (1992–1996), 1984 Winter Olympics
- **Demonyms**: Sarajévien (masculine singular), Sarajévienne (feminine singular), Sarajevesi (masculine plural)
- **Website**: [sarajevo.ba](https://www.sarajevo.ba/) (available in Bosnian, English, Serbian, Croatian)
- **Social Media**: Instagram (@city_of_sarajevo), Facebook (gradnainternetu), YouTube (UCSx2Iu_Mk_5WbatUtXTkvDw)
- **Twin Cities**: Includes Baku (1972), Cairo, Dubrovnik, Kyiv (2022), and many others
- **Memberships**: Creative Cities Network (City of Film, 2019), League of Historical Cities
- **Awards**: Wateler Peace Prize (1994)

## FAQs

### What is the history of Sarajevo?
Sarajevo was founded in 1462 and has been part of various empires and states, including the Ottoman Empire, Austria-Hungary, Yugoslavia, and independent Bosnia and Herzegovina. It gained global attention during the Siege of Sarajevo (1992–1996) and hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics.

### What languages are spoken in Sarajevo?
The official languages are Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian. The city is multilingual, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage.

### What are the key geographical features of Sarajevo?
Sarajevo is located at an elevation of 518–527 meters above sea level and spans 141.5 square kilometers. It is situated along the Miljacka River and is surrounded by mountains.

### What is Sarajevo known for?
Sarajevo is known for its historical significance, including the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which triggered World War I, and its role as a cultural hub in the Balkans. It is also recognized for its resilience during the Siege of Sarajevo and its hosting of the 1984 Winter Olympics.

### What are the administrative divisions of Sarajevo?
Sarajevo is divided into several municipalities, including Stari Grad, Centar Municipality, Novo Sarajevo, and Novi Grad.

### What organizations is Sarajevo a member of?
Sarajevo is part of the Creative Cities Network (designated as a City of Film in 2019) and the League of Historical Cities.

### Who are the current leaders of Sarajevo?
As of 2024, the mayor of Sarajevo is Predrag Puharić. Benjamina Karić served as mayor from 2021 to 2024.

### What are some of Sarajevo’s twin cities?
Sarajevo has twin city agreements with numerous cities worldwide, including Baku (1972), Kyiv (2022), Barcelona (1996), and Istanbul (1997).

## Why It Matters
Sarajevo is a symbol of resilience and cultural diversity in the Balkans. Its history reflects the complex interplay of empires, religions, and ethnicities, making it a microcosm of European history. The city’s role in major historical events, such as the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the Siege of Sarajevo, underscores its global significance. Additionally, Sarajevo’s cultural and artistic contributions, including its designation as a City of Film, highlight its ongoing relevance as a creative and historical center.

## Notable For
- **Historical Significance**: Site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which triggered World War I.
- **Resilience**: Endured the Siege of Sarajevo (1992–1996), one of the longest sieges in modern history.
- **Cultural Diversity**: Known as the "Jerusalem of Europe" due to its long history of religious and ethnic coexistence.
- **Olympic Legacy**: Hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, showcasing its international sporting capabilities.
- **Creative Recognition**: Designated as a City of Film by UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network in 2019.
- **Architectural Heritage**: Features a blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern architecture.
- **Twin Cities**: Has established sister city relationships with over 30 cities worldwide, fostering international cooperation.

## Body

### History
Sarajevo was founded in 1462 during the Ottoman Empire and has since been influenced by various rulers, including Austria-Hungary and Yugoslavia. The city became part of Bosnia and Herzegovina following the country’s independence in 1992. Key historical events include the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which precipitated World War I, and the Siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War (1992–1996).

### Geography
Sarajevo is located in the Sarajevo Valley, surrounded by the Dinaric Alps. The city lies along the Miljacka River and has an elevation ranging from 518 to 527 meters above sea level. Its coordinates are 43.85638888888889° N, 18.413055555555555° E.

### Demographics
As of the 2013 census, Sarajevo had a population of 275,524. The city is known for its ethnic and religious diversity, with significant Bosniak, Serb, and Croat communities. The official languages are Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian.

### Government and Administration
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina and serves as the administrative center for several entities, including the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska (de jure). The city is divided into municipalities such as Stari Grad, Centar, Novo Sarajevo, and Novi Grad. The current mayor, as of 2024, is Predrag Puharić.

### Culture and Heritage
Sarajevo is often referred to as the "Jerusalem of Europe" due to its long history of religious coexistence. The city is home to numerous cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and film festivals. It was designated as a City of Film by UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network in 2019.

### Economy
Sarajevo’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including tourism, manufacturing, and services. The city is a major economic hub in Bosnia and Herzegovina, attracting both domestic and international investment.

### Education and Research
Sarajevo is home to several universities and research institutions, including the University of Sarajevo, which is one of the oldest and largest universities in the Balkans.

### International Relations
Sarajevo has established twin city agreements with numerous cities worldwide, including Baku, Cairo, Kyiv, Barcelona, and Istanbul. These relationships foster cultural, economic, and educational exchanges.

### Significant Events
- **Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (1914)**: This event in Sarajevo triggered World War I.
- **1984 Winter Olympics**: Sarajevo hosted the Winter Olympics, showcasing its international sporting capabilities.
- **Siege of Sarajevo (1992–1996)**: The longest siege of a capital city in modern history, during which Sarajevo endured significant destruction and loss of life.

### Notable People
Sarajevo has been the birthplace and home to many notable individuals, including writers, artists, politicians, and athletes. The city’s diverse cultural heritage is reflected in the achievements of its residents.

### Infrastructure
Sarajevo has a well-developed infrastructure, including public transportation, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. The city is served by Sarajevo International Airport, which connects it to major European destinations.

### Tourism
Sarajevo is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical sites, cultural events, and natural beauty. Key attractions include the Baščaršija (old bazaar), the Latin Bridge, and the Sarajevo City Hall.

### Awards and Recognition
Sarajevo has received several awards and recognitions, including the Wateler Peace Prize in 1994 for its efforts in promoting peace and reconciliation during the Bosnian War.

### Media and Communication
Sarajevo has a vibrant media landscape, with numerous newspapers, television stations, and online platforms. The city’s official website is available in multiple languages, and it maintains an active presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

### Environmental Features
Sarajevo is surrounded by mountains and forests, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. The city’s natural beauty is a major draw for tourists and residents alike.

### Future Developments
Sarajevo continues to evolve as a cultural, economic, and political center in the Balkans. Ongoing projects aim to improve infrastructure, promote tourism, and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.sarajevo.ba/en/article/1184/gradonacelnik-biografija-intervjui-galerija)
2. [Source](http://baku-ih.gov.az/page/26.html)
3. [Source](http://azerbaijans.com/content_1719_az.html)
4. [Source](https://www.sarajevo.ba/bs/article/3187/gradonacelnik-behmen-i-ambasador-hasanov-intenzivirati-pobratimske-veze-izmedu-sarajeva-i-bakua)
5. [Source](https://gradskovijece.sarajevo.ba/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Vedad-Deljković-broj-01-GV-02-289-7.O-18-od-21.03.2018.-godine.pdf)
6. [Source](https://www.coventry.gov.uk/directory_record/6223/sarajevo_bosnia_and_herzegovina/category/732/europe)
7. [Source](https://www.innsbruck.gv.at/page.cfm?vpath=buergerinnen--politik/innsbruck-international/innsbrucks-partnerstaedte#sarajevo)
8. [Source](http://en.sistercity.info/sister-cities/Tirana.html)
9. [Source](https://tirana.al/uploads/2023/6/20230627125928_marreveshje-shoqata.pdf)
10. [Source](https://starportal.skopje.gov.mk/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=0&tabid=172)
11. [Source](https://www.pula.hr/hr/vodici/medunarodna-suradnja/o-odsjeku/medunarodna-suradnja/gradovi-pobratimi/)
12. [Source](https://www.villederueil.fr/fr/villes-jumelles)
13. [Source](https://www.izmir.bel.tr/tr/Haberler/soyer-bizim-ruhlarimiz-da-vicdanimiz-da-kardes/46962/156)
14. [Source](https://kyivcity.gov.ua/kyiv_ta_miska_vlada/pro_kyiv/mista-pobratimi_z_yakimi_kiyevom_pidpisani_dokumenti_pro_poridnennya_druzhbu_spivrobitnitstvo_partnerstvo/)
15. [Source](https://n1info.ba/english/news/sarajevo-and-kyiv-sign-agreement-on-establishing-friendly-relations/)
16. BnF authorities
17. Virtual International Authority File
18. [Source](https://www.lhc-s.org/member_cities/index.php)
19. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
20. MusicBrainz
21. [Population](http://www.popis2013.ba/popis2013/doc/Popis2013prvoIzdanje.pdf)
22. Great Soviet Encyclopedia (1969–1978)
23. Great dictionary of geographical names
24. Flickr Shapefiles Public Dataset 2.0
25. [Source](http://cnig.gouv.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CNT-PVM_r%C3%A9vis%C3%A9_2020-01-27-1.pdf)
26. GeoNames
27. BBC Things
28. [Source](http://www.floodmap.net/Elevation/ElevationMap/?gi=3191281)
29. [Source](https://it-ch.topographic-map.com/map-lgmgf3/Saraievo/?zoom=19&center=43.85172%2C18.38276&popup=43.8518%2C18.38278)
30. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
31. Enciclopedia Treccani
32. YouTube API
33. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
34. Dizionario di Storia
35. [Source](https://islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/saraybosna)
36. Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands
37. [Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands](https://biblio.hiu.cas.cz/records/20905a12-1491-4cc5-8426-726bac902db9)
38. museum-digital