The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is the largest cathedral in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the seat of the Archbishop of Vrhbosna.

Compared to the grand European cathedrals, it has a rather intimate feel, but its light and pleasantly understated interior is well worth a brief visit.

It was built between 1884 and 1889 to a design by the architect Josip Vancaš. Inside, be sure to note the colourful stained-glass windows, the painted decorations and the marble high altar.

Directly in front of the cathedral lies one of Sarajevo’s most famous ‘roses’. The crater left by a mortar shell during the siege of the city was filled with red resin and today serves as a memorial to the victims of the war.

Admission and opening hours

• Free entry
• Tuesday to Sunday 9.00–17.30
• In winter, it closes at 15:00
• Closed on Mondays

As the cathedral is still used for worship, visitor access may be temporarily restricted. An English-language service is held regularly on Sundays at 12:00.

Allow approximately 15 to 20 minutes for a tour of the interior.

Location

The cathedral is situated right on the Ferhadija pedestrian zone. You’ll pass it whilst walking between Baščaršija and the Eternal Flame, so you don’t need to plan a separate route to visit it.

Accommodation in the area

The Ferhadija area is one of the best places to stay if you want to explore the entire historic centre on foot.

• Hotel Central Sarajevo – just a few minutes from the cathedral, and featuring an indoor swimming pool and spa
• Hotel Europe – a historic five-star hotel between the cathedral and Baščaršija, with on-site parking

Take a look at other hotels and apartments near the cathedral too.

What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Sarajevo.