Colorful Mosque

Located in the heart of Travnik’s Lower Bazaar, the Sulejmanija Mosque, better known as the Colorful Mosque (Šarena Džamija), is one of the most fascinating symbols of the former vizier city and a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its history dates back to the late 16th century, when Gazi-aga built the original mosque on this site. In 1757, it was completely rebuilt by the Bosnian governor Ahmed Pasha Ćamil. The mosque owes its present appearance and name to Grand Vizier Sulejman Pasha Skopljak, who thoroughly restored it after a devastating fire in 1815, creating a structure that has captivated visitors with its beauty and unique design for centuries.

Unlike most mosques, the Sulejmanija Mosque stands on short stone pillars, beneath which lies a bezistan – a covered marketplace with numerous shops. This unique combination of a religious and commercial center has survived centuries of historical challenges and remains functional to this day. The mosque’s interior resembles an art gallery. It earned the name “Colorful Mosque” thanks to its rich floral ornaments, calligraphic inscriptions of the names of the Prophet’s companions, and vibrant colors decorating the mihrab, windows, and wooden gallery columns.

Today, the Colorful Mosque is not only an important place of worship but also one of Travnik’s must-see attractions. Its location near the famous Plava Voda spring makes it an ideal starting point for discovering the spirit and heritage of old Travnik.