Maybe Christmas isn’t an ideal time for travel as most people tend to spend it with their families, but if you happen to be in Sarajevo for Christmas, we are sure you will feel at home.
Traditionally, Sarajevans will visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral for a Midnight Mass which marks the beginning of this holiday. The Sacred heart Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Vrhbosna built in 1889 in neo-gothic style. The interior of the church is lavishly decorated, with all frescos commissioned to famous German-Italian artist Alexander Maximillian Seitz.
Inside the Cathedral is the grave of Josip Štadler, the first Archbishop of Vrhbosna who initiated the construction of this sacral object at the beginning of 20th Century. In front of the entrance is a statue of Pope John Paul II.
Midnight Mass is also celebrated in other churches. Should you decide to visit the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua in Bistrik neighborhood, you will be able to enjoy singing liturgies, nativity scene and Christmas Folk Music. This church is beautifully shaped, both inside and out, it is peaceful, sedate, quiet and mystical.
Sarajevans traditionally spend Christmas Day with their families or at one of the local restaurants which are usually open for Christmas. During the holidays, there is plenty of events in the city, so why not enjoy Jazz Christmas with Sunday Stories at the Holiday Market, or Sarajevo Jazz Guerilla at Club Jazzbina.
Merry Christmas!
