Podcast Episode #2 & 3, A Better Way to Travel 

Only 10 years after Sultan Mehmet al Fatih conquered Constantinople (Istanbul), he entered Bosnia Herzegovina and established Ottoman rule. Due to the establishment, the capital city, Sarajevo, became one of the most prosperous cities in the Ottoman Empire. At that time, Jews, Christians and Muslims made this city their home and lived together harmoniously. Therefore, Sarajevo came to be known as the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’. Today, Bosnia is a treasure trove of Ottoman Islamic heritage. Until now, it is the only major city in Europe to house a mosque, synagogue, Catholic church and Orthodox church together in the same neighbourhood.

Moreover, what’s even more impressive is that Sarajevo continues to be a centre of Islamic learning. Specifically because Sarajevo has schools such as the Gazi Husrev-Beg Madrasa, educating future leaders since 1537.

The entrance to Gazi Husrev Beg mosque in the Bascarsija, Sarajevo. Photo: helovi/Getty Images Siganture

To begin with, I’m joined by a graduate of this very madrasa and local travel expert, Selma Fisekovic. Accordingly, Selma will share how Bosnia played a crucial role in the Ottoman Empire. Including the stories behind the beautiful Mosques, Madrasas and Hans dotted all over the country. Moreover, she will also share a local’s perspective on the brutal ’90s war. Besides, she will also talk about what it’s like being Muslim in Bosnia today.

Let’s go!

Episode 2: Sarajevo, the Jerusalem of Europe (Part I) – A Better Way to Travel Podcast

Episode 3: Sarajevo, the Jerusalem of Europe (Part II) – A Better Way to Travel Podcast

Soumaya

P.S. This is the second and third instalment in our 6-part limited series exploring what it’s like being a Muslim in different parts of the world. I’ll be speaking with local Muslim leaders and changemakers across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. Therefore, I’d love for you to join the conversation. Thus, please share your thoughts in the comments section!