Today the iconic Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is probably among the most famous symbols of Mostar. It`s the second largest mosque in Mostar, situated on the left bank of the Neretva river, just about 150 meters north of the Old Bridge.
The entrance leads to the beautiful courtyard where you can enjoy the colorful garden, shops, restaurant and Šadrvan fountain. Šadrvan had two purposes, one being architecture attraction and the second one was for people to wash and clean their hands before going to religious ceremonies. This one of a kind places gave a special touch of oriental charm to the towns.
The concept of building Šadrvan comes from the Persian culture and it was brought to Bosnia and Herzegovina during the Ottoman rule. Read more about the history behind the picturesque Šadrvan in our previous post.
Visitors can enter the mosque and enjoy the unique architecture features form Ottoman style.The most important element in the mosque is the mihrab, the niche that indicates the direction of Mecca. Because it functions as the focal point in prayer ritual, its decoration was executed with great skill and devotion. The wall in which a mihrab appears is thus the “qibla wall.” In case you have missed it, read more about the importance of mihrab in our previous post.
The minbar is located to the right of the mihrab, the niche that indicates the direction of prayer (i.e. towards Mecca). Read more about the minbar a symbol of authority in our previous post.
Visitors can also climb up the minaret (lighthouse) stairs and enjoy the most beautiful panoramic view of the city. The stairs are quite narrow so it is advised that one by one person climb to the top.
The mosque was constructed in 1618. Visitors are allowed to climb the minaret, which offers a panoramic view of the city. Like most buildings in the old town of Mostar, the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque was seriously damaged during the war in the 1990s and was later restored.
Forget the Taj Mahal and the Colosseum as some of the world’s most impressive structures remain out of the public eye. So when planing to visit Mostar. For the best places to visit include the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque on your list. We promise you will not regret!
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