Sarajevo's Old Clock Tower

Sarajevo's clock tower stands tall at 30 meters and whispers stories from the 16th century. This isn't just any clock; it's a unique marvel, the only public clock in the world that ticks to the rhythm of lunar time, or "à la Turk." Imagine a day that starts at sunset, with the clock striking 12:00 when the sun dips below the horizon. It's a fascinating system that aligns with the daily prayers, making it a cultural gem in the heart of the city.

As the seasons change, so does the length of the day, and it once fell to a dedicated muvekit, or timekeeper, to ensure the clock's precision. Nestled in the courtyard of Bey’s Mosque, you'll find a muvekithana, an observatory of sorts where time was meticulously calculated using age-old techniques and sensitive instruments.

The clock mechanism you see today was a gift from London, brought over in 1875 by Sarajevan merchants, Hašimaga Glođo and Mehaga Kapetanović. Adding a touch of elegance, Abdulah Kasumagić, a renowned watchmaker and former muvekit from Sarajevo, gilded the hands and numbers on all four clock faces. When you visit, take a moment to appreciate how this clock not only tells time but also narrates a piece of Sarajevo's rich history. While you're there, don't miss out on exploring the vibrant streets surrounding the tower, where local cafes offer a taste of Bosnian coffee culture and a perfect spot to unwind.