Description of the attraction
Svrzo's house is an example of a residential building of a wealthy Muslim family. Moreover, this is a real house, not recreated for tourists. It was built in 1640 by the Glojo family. The family was known in Bosnia thanks to a representative of the older generation, who led an active struggle for the country's autonomy within the Ottoman Empire. Since there were no male heirs in the Glojo family, the house passed into the ownership of the eminent Svrzo family. This family worked hard to transform the house into a beautiful example of Muslim architecture of that era. Therefore, it is perfectly true that the house bears the name of its owners.
The house is conducive to self-examination - to feel its atmosphere. But finding it without the help of a guide is rather difficult: it is located in the depths of the streets behind the Muslim quarters. The guide will help you understand the traditions and philosophy of the Muslim family.
High walls fence off the garden, which is spread around the house. The courtyard pool with fountain transforms the place into an oasis of tranquility. This classic oriental home is built primarily of wood, an unusual material for the region. Above the first floor, there is an open gallery on wide ledges that support large wooden consoles. The interiors are spacious, with wooden ceilings and many windows decorated with embroidered curtains. Low Turkish sofas covered with oriental carpets stretch along the windows. The interior is complemented by wardrobes with ornate carvings, metal lamps, fireplaces and low tables.
The house is divided into male and female halves - selamlik and harem. According to the Ottoman principle, the second floor was reserved for family members, the servants were located below.
Today Svrzo House is a branch of the Sarajevo Museum, as a place that clearly represents the way of life and culture of the Muslim family of the 18th - 19th centuries.
