Panoramic Elevators

Overview

Soaring majestically above the vibrant cityscape of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Avaz Twist Tower stands as an iconic symbol of modernity and a testament to the city's enduring spirit. Within this architectural marvel lies a captivating experience: the Panoramic Elevators. These aren't merely a means of transport; they are an integral part of the journey to the tower's summit, offering a thrilling ascent and an unparalleled prelude to the breathtaking vistas awaiting visitors on the observation deck. The tower itself, with its distinctive twisted facade, commands attention and offers a 360-degree perspective of Sarajevo's unique blend of history and contemporary life.

Standing at an impressive 172 meters (564 feet), the Avaz Twist Tower is the tallest skyscraper in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It houses various businesses and is particularly renowned for its public-access observation deck on the 36th floor and a charming cafe on the 35th floor, both of which are reached by these remarkable glass-walled elevators.

History & Cultural Background

The Avaz Twist Tower's story is deeply intertwined with Sarajevo's journey of post-war recovery and modernization. Construction began in 2006 and was completed in 2008, with its official opening in May 2009. Designed by architect Faruk Kapidžić, the tower serves as the headquarters for 'Dnevni avaz', a leading Bosnian newspaper company, reflecting its dual role as a functional business hub and a significant urban landmark. Its construction involved hundreds of companies and thousands of local workers, showcasing Bosnian architectural, engineering, and construction capabilities.

Internationally recognized for its striking design, the Avaz Twist Tower was chosen by the German company Schüco, a world leader in glass and aluminum facades, as one of the ten most beautiful buildings in the world in 2009. This accolade underscores its architectural significance and its contribution to Sarajevo's renewed global presence. The tower's twisted form itself is more than just a visual gimmick; it embodies the idea of motion captured in a static object, injecting dynamism into the city's skyline and symbolizing its rebirth.

What Makes It Special

The Panoramic Elevators of the Avaz Twist Tower are a highlight of any visit. Described as 'super fast' and 'ultra-fast', they whisk visitors upwards at an impressive speed, reportedly among the fastest in Europe, at five meters per second. This rapid ascent in a glass 'tube' is a mini-attraction in itself, offering constantly changing views of the cityscape as you climb higher. The sensation of soaring quickly while watching Sarajevo unfold below is an unforgettable experience.

Once at the top, the observation deck provides a full 360-degree platform, stitching together views of historic neighborhoods like Baščaršija, the winding Miljacka River, and the majestic mountain ring that cradles Sarajevo. Powerful fieldscopes are available on the 36th floor, allowing visitors to zoom in on various landmarks and details of the city, even spotting the Romanija Mountain range on clear days.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Beyond its visual appeal, the Avaz Twist Tower holds several intriguing details. The 'twist' in its facade isn't just aesthetic; it rotates an average of 1.53 degrees per floor, resulting in a total twist of about 60 degrees from base to top. This unique design was inspired by the DNA double helix, symbolizing Sarajevo's renewal. The glass facade itself is dynamic, changing appearance with the light, appearing cooler and steel-blue in the mornings and warming to honey tones in the afternoons.

A fun, local detail is the 'Avaz Tower Running' event, an unusual sporting challenge where participants race up the tower's 780 steps to the observation deck. This event adds a unique athletic dimension to the tower's appeal, drawing crowds and celebrating community spirit. For those looking to combine views with relaxation, the Caffe 35 on the 35th floor offers a chic spot to enjoy a drink with an inspiring panoramic backdrop. Interestingly, visitors typically pay the entrance fee for the observation deck at the top, not at the ground floor, and it's advisable to have local currency (BAM) coins ready.

Visitor Perspective

For any curious traveler, a visit to the Panoramic Elevators and the observation deck of the Avaz Twist Tower promises a memorable and insightful experience. The journey begins with the exhilarating ride up, a moment that often prompts gasps of delight as the city quickly recedes and expands beneath. From the observation deck, one gains a profound sense of Sarajevo's layout, its blend of old and new architecture, and its stunning natural setting. You can easily identify key landmarks and understand the city's geography.

Many visitors recommend timing your visit around golden hour or early evening to witness the city bathed in warm light, followed by the enchanting spectacle of city lights twinkling across the basin. Whether you're a photography enthusiast seeking cinematic shots or simply a traveler wishing to grasp the essence of Sarajevo from a unique vantage point, the Avaz Twist Tower's Panoramic Elevators and subsequent views offer a perfect blend of thrill and contemplation, connecting you deeply with the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina's capital.