Library

Overview

Nestled within the vibrant heart of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Library of Gazi Husrev-beg is far more than a mere collection of books; it is a profound historical and cultural institution. Founded in 1537 by the Ottoman governor Gazi Husrev-beg, this library stands as the oldest public library in Bosnia and Herzegovina, continuously serving its purpose for centuries. It forms an integral part of the larger Gazi Husrev-beg waqf (endowment) complex, which also includes the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and a madrasa, all situated in Sarajevo's historic Baščaršija district. The library's significance extends beyond its age, encompassing an invaluable repository of knowledge that has played a crucial role in preserving Islamic and Bosnian cultural heritage. Today, it continues to function as a public library, a research center, and a museum, attracting scholars and curious travelers alike.

History & Cultural Background

The foundation of the Gazi Husrev-beg Library dates back to January 8, 1537, established concurrently with Gazi Husrev-beg's madrasa. Gazi Husrev-beg, a prominent Ottoman governor, stipulated in his endowment charter that 'whatever money remains from the construction of the madrasa shall be used for purchasing good books, which will be used in the madrasa by readers, and for copying from them by those who engage in science.' This visionary directive underscored his commitment to education and intellectual development in the region. Initially housed within the madrasa, the library's collection grew, leading to several relocations over the centuries. In 1863, a dedicated room was built for it next to the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. Later, in 1935, it moved to the Sarajevo Mufti's office. A pivotal chapter in its history unfolded during the Bosnian War and the Siege of Sarajevo (1992-1995). The library's holdings, especially its precious manuscripts, were meticulously safeguarded. Printed books were transferred to the Emperor's Mosque, while the most valuable manuscripts were moved eight times and even hidden in bank vaults to protect them from destruction. This extraordinary effort ensured the preservation of its irreplaceable treasures, a testament to the community's dedication to knowledge. The library reopened in a new, purpose-built facility in 2014, largely funded by a grant from Qatar, ensuring its legacy continues into the modern era.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Gazi Husrev-beg Library apart is its astonishing collection, particularly its extensive fund of Islamic manuscripts. It holds one of the most important collections of Islamic manuscripts in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and indeed, one of the largest collections of oriental manuscripts in Southeast Europe. The library's treasures include over 10,500 codices of manuscripts, encompassing approximately 20,000 texts. These works span a vast array of subjects, from Islamic sciences, Oriental languages, belles-lettres, philosophy, and logic to history, medicine, veterinary science, mathematics, and astronomy. Among its prized possessions is the oldest preserved manuscript, 'Ihya’ Ulum al-Din' by Abu Hamid Muhammad al-Ghazali, copied in 1105. The collection also boasts illuminated copies of the Qur'an, rare autographs, and manuscripts distinguished by their exceptional calligraphy and elaborate decorations. Beyond manuscripts, the library houses around 200,000 other items, including printed books, journals, and various documents in Arabic, Turkish, Persian, Bosnian, and other European languages. Its modern facilities include a state-of-the-art laboratory for preservation and restoration, as well as equipment for microfilming and digitalization, safeguarding these historical records for future generations.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The library's story is interwoven with resilience and dedication. During the devastating Siege of Sarajevo, the decision to move and hide its entire collection, particularly the 500 most valuable manuscripts placed in bank vaults, is a testament to the community's profound reverence for knowledge. This act of cultural heroism ensured that a significant portion of humanity's shared heritage survived a period of immense destruction. The library's new building, reopened in 2014, is a modern architectural marvel, made of glass and marble. It features reading rooms, a conservation room, and even a 200-seat auditorium equipped for simultaneous translations, showcasing a blend of tradition and contemporary functionality. In its basement, there is a museum dedicated to Bosnia's rich history of literacy. The museum section also displays unique artifacts such as writing tools from ancient times, hand-made globes from 1881, and 'kibletname' – tools for determining the direction of the Qibla, offering a tangible connection to the past. The very act of Gazi Husrev-beg stipulating the use of leftover construction funds for books speaks volumes about the value placed on intellectual pursuits in 16th-century Ottoman Bosnia.

Visitor Perspective

For a curious traveler, the Gazi Husrev-beg Library offers a compelling glimpse into centuries of intellectual and cultural life in Sarajevo. While the main research library functions as an academic institution with specific access requirements for its funds and reading rooms, the library's museum section is generally accessible to the public. The museum houses a fascinating collection of over 1,200 items, divided into thematic areas such as Islamic art, education, religious life, and ethnology. Visitors can explore exquisite Islamic calligraphy, rare manuscripts displayed as artworks, and various historical objects that paint a vivid picture of Bosnian Muslim culture and history. The entrance fee to the museum is modest, and it is open on weekdays and Saturdays. It's an opportunity to respectfully witness the profound legacy of Gazi Husrev-beg and appreciate the enduring importance of written word and education in this historically rich region. The library is centrally located in Sarajevo's Old Town, making it easily reachable on foot from most tourist areas.