As part of the Older Brother, Older Sister project, on February 19, 2023, a creative historical excursion was organized to explore the beauties and landmarks of the city of Sarajevo. Volunteers and children had the opportunity to get acquainted with the historical part of the city through interesting challenges and tasks, which they solved together, leading them to the answers and places they needed to visit.
Due to its rich historical heritage, Sarajevo is often referred to as a “meeting of cultures.” During this excursion, the children and volunteers had the chance to transition from one culture to another. They visited significant landmarks and places such as the Begova Mosque, Gazi Husrev-beg’s Bezistan, the Clock Tower, Sweet Corner (Slatko Ćoše), craft shops, and Baščaršija, which reflect the period of the Ottoman Empire’s rule. They continued their journey westward down Ferhadija Street and learned more about the landmarks from the time of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy.
Continuing their fascinating adventure of discovering Sarajevo’s landmarks, they also visited the Jewish Museum, the National Museum, various religious sites, and had the chance to “meet Tesla” and take interesting photos. The goal of the excursion was to educate the children, as well as the volunteers, about the city they live in, the various cultures that intertwine, and how these differences connect people in Sarajevo.
After this productive day, volunteer Selma Arnautović shared her impressions:
I believe today’s workshop was extremely important, and despite the age differences, we managed to find a common thread that connects us—our city, Sarajevo. We had the opportunity to learn something new and reflect on the beautiful culture and history of this city. By visiting religious landmarks and the cultural and historical heritage, the children expanded their knowledge and got to know the uniqueness and beauty of the multiethnicity that flows through Sarajevo, which will certainly remain in their memories for a long time.
It is interesting to note that volunteer Amina Rahić celebrated her birthday in this beautiful setting, so this day will surely remain a bit more memorable for her than for the other participants. We asked Amina what it felt like to celebrate her birthday with the children and if anything special made her happy.
It was truly beautiful for me. From the very beginning, the group I was in tried to make my birthday special, and we had a wonderful time together learning about the city’s beauties. What made me happiest were the congratulations from the volunteers and children, as well as the messages they wrote to me, and especially the gift I received from the members of the Association. They left me speechless. I’m even more grateful that I am part of such a wonderful and thoughtful team.
Through this small and interesting adventure, we all managed to learn something new and spend a lovely, pleasant weekend together, basking in the sun, surrounded by friends, love, and care.
