Carina džamija

Carina džamija

Located in the Vratnik neighborhood of Sarajevo, the mosque was constructed in 1515-16, making it one of the city's oldest and most significant religious structures. It stands as the largest mosque in the Vratnik area, with internal dimensions measuring 9.0 x 10.90 meters. The mosque features a stone minaret and includes a Divanhana with a kitchen, separate ablution facilities for men and women, and various other rooms designed for different activities. (medzlis-sarajevo.ba)

The mosque's architecture is distinguished by its four-sided roof covered with tiles and a uniquely beautiful wooden porch adorned with original decorations. The mihrab is decorated with exquisite stalactites, and the window frames are embellished with oriental motifs. The mosque's courtyard is particularly captivating, with its stone-paved entrance, floral arrangements, and natural stone fence, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. (medzlis-sarajevo.ba)

Adjacent to the mosque is the vakufska (endowment) or imam's house and an old cemetery, with the oldest dated tombstone from 1803. On the right side in front of the mosque stands a stone fountain (šadrvan). The courtyard is enclosed by a stone wall with beautifully crafted wooden doors. Throughout its history, the mosque has been served by numerous esteemed scholars and imams, contributing to its rich spiritual heritage. (medzlis-sarajevo.ba)

In 1817, Hatidža, daughter of Mustafa from the Kasap-zade neighborhood, bequeathed her house and garden to the imam of this mosque. Today, the imam of the mosque is Šerif-ef. Delić, a professor of Islamic theology, and the mualima (female teacher) is his wife, Dženana Delić. The mosque conducts five daily prayers, the Friday prayer, and offers religious education for children and adults. The youth of the congregation are particularly active and are present in the mosque daily. (medzlis-sarajevo.ba)

The mosque has also been involved in community activities, such as organizing programs during the month of Rebiu-l-evvel, which celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. These programs include recitations of the Qur'an, zikr (remembrance of God), mevlud (praise of the Prophet), ilahije (religious songs), and kaside (poetic praises). (medzlis-sarajevo.ba)

In 2021, the Medžlis of the Islamic Community of Sarajevo initiated activities to renovate the nearby Hambina Carina cemetery. The project involved replacing the old fence, installing a new entrance, and improving the area designated for funeral prayers. These efforts reflect the community's commitment to preserving and maintaining their religious and cultural heritage. (preporod.info)

The mosque's rich history, architectural beauty, and active role in the community make it a significant landmark in Sarajevo, reflecting the city's deep-rooted Islamic traditions and cultural heritage.