Sarajevo: Where the Snipers’ Bullet is Just Another Tourist Attraction

Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its rich culture and history, stunning scenery, and chronic sniping. Spanning over 245 square kilometers and home to around 300,000 people, Sarajevo is a city that has seen it all - from war to peace, from tragedy to triumph, and from siege to tourism.

History

Sarajevo was founded in the 14th century by the Ottomans, who named it “Saraybosna,” meaning “The palace at the Bosna river.” It has since been a melting pot of different cultures and religions, leading to its nickname “Jerusalem of Europe.” However, it was in the 1990s that Sarajevo gained international fame, not because of its historic landmarks or vibrant nightlife, but because of the Bosnian War.

The Siege of Sarajevo

From 1992 to 1996, Sarajevo was under siege by Bosnian Serb forces, resulting in one of the longest and most brutal sieges in modern history. It is estimated that between 10,000 to 14,000 people were killed during this time, with many others injured and traumatized. But hey, look on the bright side, the war definitely drew attention to the city!

Present-Day Sarajevo

Today, Sarajevo has bounced back and is now a popular tourist destination - thanks in part to its unique blend of Oriental and European culture, as well as its many historical sites. But let’s be real, the main reason people visit Sarajevo is for the “Sniper Alley Tour,” where visitors can walk the same streets that were once riddled with bullets and snap photos while pretending to dodge imaginary gunfire. It’s like a real-life Call of Duty experience, but with more kebabs!

Culture

Sarajevo isn’t just about the siege, though. It also boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous festivals and events held throughout the year. The Sarajevo Film Festival is one of the biggest film festivals in Southeastern Europe, and is definitely worth attending. Just make sure to bring your bulletproof vest, you never can be too careful.

Food

No trip to Sarajevo is complete without trying its delicious local cuisine. From cevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (flaky pastry stuffed with cheese or meat), and pita (a type of savory pie), to baklava (sweet pastry filled with nuts), locals take their food seriously. And don’t worry, it’s safe to eat; the snipers have gone on to better things now.

Conclusion

All in all, Sarajevo is a city unlike any other. Its history may be tragic, but its people are resilient and have managed to rebuild their city into a thriving and unique destination. So come for the culture, come for the food, and definitely come for the Sniper Alley tour!