Svrzo's House
Svrzo's House is an authentic example of Sarajevan architecture from the Ottoman period. Its rooms and courtyard evoke the daily life and traditions of old Sarajevo.
Built in the 18th century
belonged to the prominent Sarajevo family Svrzo, whose members were renowned merchants and waqf founders. The house is an outstanding example of Ottoman Sarajevo residential architecture, with clearly separated family and representative areas – the harem (haremluk) and the reception area (selamluk).
It was built from traditional materials, wood and mudbrick, with characteristic Bosnian courtyards (avlijas) and spacious inner courtyards. After nationalization and renovation, it was converted into a museum in 1960, as part of the Museum of Sarajevo, with the aim of preserving the authentic appearance and way of life of Sarajevo families from that period.
Today, Svrzo's House offers visitors a unique experience of traveling through time – into the world of customs, family relations, and everyday life of old Sarajevo, where one can feel the warmth of home and the spirit of the city as it once was.
Experience in Svrzo House:
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Harem and selamlik
The two separate parts of the house, the private (haremluk) and the reception (selamluk), reflect the traditional way of life and culture of Ottoman Sarajevo.
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Family Life
Furniture, dishes, carpets, and textiles reveal the daily habits, hospitality, and warmth of the homes of wealthy Sarajevo families.
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Architecture and materials
The house is built of wood and wattle and daub, with wooden doksats and inner courtyards, making it one of the finest examples of local Ottoman architecture.
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Courtyard and garden
The central living space of the house – a place for family gatherings, rest, and socializing, surrounded by flowers and greenery.
