Sarajevo is a city with a large amount of impressive historical and cultural monuments. There is a lot of things to see and do. But, it’s quite clear that, like most other places in the world, only one part of the city is filled with these touristy, done-up sights. However, this city has so much more to offer. If you want to dig a little deeper and discover what life in Sarajevo truly looks like, make sure you visit some of the not-touristy, and yet interesting locations in Sarajevo.
Ciglane is a district north of Marijin Dvor and fairly close to the Old Town. The word Ciglane comes from german word “Die Ziegel“, which means brick. The reason for that is that all the way back in 1879 an Austrian entrepeneur August Brown built a brick factory there. They were needed for constructing new buildings all around Sarajevo. However, the idea to build apartment blocks here only came about in 1965, long after the brick factory stopped working. The construction began in 1976 and was completed in 1979. It was built in brutalist, socialist architecture. It looks uninviting, but this socialist neighbourhood plays an integral part in Sarajevo’s modern history. Many of the city’s residents still live in these almost dilapidated apartment blocks that give a glimpse into life under socialism. Between the concrete lies Ciglane Market, which is Sarajevo’s best flea market. You can buy Yugoslavian trinkets and memorabilia that makes a unique Bosnian souvenir.
Today, with the help of street art and with its unique construction, it’s one of the coolest districts in the city. It’s a really good place to take pictures and explore.