Sarajevo: Jewish Heritage Grand Tour｜Bosnia and Herzegovina

Begin your journey in Sarajevo's historic center with a visit to the Old Jewish Temple, now home to the Jewish Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Learn about the arrival of Sephardic Jews in Sarajevo, their traditions, Ladino language, religious life, and contribution to the development of the city.

Continue through the city and discover buildings and locations connected with generations of Sarajevo's Jewish families. See the Old Jewish Temple, Gallery New Temple, Ashkenazi Synagogue, Former Grand Jewish Temple, First Jewish Secondary School, Historic Jewish Credit Foundation, Villa AMA, Salom Family Palace, and important buildings connected with prominent Jewish families.

Learn about the differences between Sarajevo's Sephardic and Ashkenazi communities and how both became part of the city's multicultural identity. Visit the beautiful Ashkenazi Synagogue, built at the beginning of the 20th century and still serving Sarajevo's Jewish community today.

Discover the story of the Ashkenazi Jews who arrived in larger numbers during the Austro-Hungarian period and learn how the city's Jewish community developed during this new chapter of Sarajevo's history.

One of the highlights of the tour is the fascinating story of the Sarajevo Haggadah, one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's greatest cultural treasures. Created in medieval Spain in the 14th century, this beautifully illuminated Jewish manuscript eventually found its way to Sarajevo.

Hear the extraordinary story of how the Haggadah survived expulsions, wars, and persecution, including its protection during World War II and the Siege of Sarajevo. When access is available, visit the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the original Sarajevo Haggadah is preserved (Tuesdays and Thursdays only)

Travel by vehicle to Sarajevo's historic Jewish Cemetery, one of the most significant Jewish heritage sites in the Balkans. Walk among centuries-old tombstones and discover the distinctive Sephardic burial tradition of Sarajevo. Your guide will explain the symbols, inscriptions, and stories connected with some of the people buried here.

The cemetery also played an important role during the Siege of Sarajevo from 1992 to 1995 because of its strategic position overlooking the city. Learn how Sarajevo's Jewish community experienced both World War II and the Bosnian War, and hear about the humanitarian assistance provided to Sarajevo's citizens during the siege.