Ratna Džamija (War Mosque) on Igman - Symbol of Bosnian Defense
Ratna Džamija, meaning 'War Mosque', stands high on Mount Igman as one of Bosnia's most emotionally powerful monuments. This modest wooden mosque with its wooden minaret was built and opened during the Bosnian War, in an area of immense strategic importance for the defense of Sarajevo. Constructed between November 17, 1993 and February 5, 1994, under incredibly difficult wartime conditions, the mosque represents the physical proof of maintaining faith, culture, and community in the midst of destruction. Visiting from our house in Sarajevo, you'll discover a living testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Bosnian people.
Built Under Fire - A Symbol of Resistance
The mosque was constructed in extremely difficult wartime conditions. Due to the impossibility of bringing standard building materials and technologies at that time, the structure was built entirely from wood - a simple wooden construction measuring approximately 10 × 12 meters, with a wooden minaret, designed by architect Osman Smiječanin. The work was carried out by members and volunteers from the Army of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina (including members of the First Corps), often in winter conditions, through snow drifts and difficult movement. Mount Igman itself played a crucial strategic and symbolic role in the siege of Sarajevo - as a high, forested mountain to the west/southwest of the city, Igman was the 'rampart' defending approaches to Sarajevo. Its capture would have seriously endangered the capital's position.
What to Expect
Visitors to Ratna Džamija will find a simple, functional wooden structure that carries immense emotional weight. The mosque's wooden architecture gives it warmth and intimacy, blending beautifully with the surrounding dense pine forest of Igman. Combined with the scent of the forest and, in winter, white snow-covered fields, the effect is almost poetic: a small, human-scale building in the vast mountain emptiness. The mosque remains an active place of worship and memorial, hosting prayers, commemorations, and religious gatherings (hatmas, mevluds, zikrs), especially during events commemorating the defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina on Igman.
Practical Information
Access to the mosque is via gravel and smaller local roads from the direction of Hadžići and Hrasnica towards Igman. Summer and early autumn offer the most pleasant access due to forest trails and shade; in winter, snow and icy roads create dramatic conditions but require appropriate equipment and checking road conditions. There is no entrance fee, but respectful behavior is expected as this is both an active religious site and a memorial. Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering, and if a gathering is in progress, ask before photographing.
From Our House in Sarajevo
From our Sarajevo house (Vila Presjenica), Ratna Džamija is approximately 31 km away, about 45 minutes by car. The drive takes you through the beautiful Igman mountain landscape, the same area that hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics (cross-country skiing and biathlon events were held at Veliko Polje/Igman). This creates a layered experience: sporting past, wartime past, and today's nature. For history enthusiasts staying at our house in Sarajevo, this site offers deep insights into the Siege of Sarajevo and the role of faith in Bosnia's survival.
Insider Tips
Bring comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing (higher altitudes can be significantly cooler), water, and a camera. Dress modestly when visiting - women should cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering. Photography is usually permitted but ask first, especially if a gathering is in progress. The nearby Olympic sites from 1984 and the ruins of ski jumps create a multi-layered visit combining sporting history, wartime history, and present-day nature. For the best experience, combine the mosque visit with a peaceful walk through the surrounding pine forest or stop at nearby viewpoints.