Novi Hram (The New Temple), Sarajevo

The New Temple (Novi Hram) is a serene stop for travelers tracing the city’s layered past. Once a synagogue serving the local Jewish community, the building now functions as a contemporary exhibition space and cultural venue. Its thick stone walls and simple, harmonious proportions whisper of centuries of coexistence in a city where mosques, churches, and synagogues rise within a short walk of one another. Step through the doorway and you’ll find a bright, intimate interior that suits small exhibitions, concerts, and talks-an inviting pause from the street life outside.

For visitors, the New Temple offers two experiences at once: a glimpse of Sarajevo’s Jewish heritage and a window onto its present-day creativity. Exhibitions change regularly, showcasing local artists, photography, and multimedia projects, often with themes connected to memory, identity, and urban life. Even when there’s no event on the calendar, the space itself rewards a look-the restrained design and quiet acoustics encourage you to slow down, read the wall texts, and absorb the area’s history.

The New Temple sits a short walk from Bascarsija’s cafés and craft shops, making it easy to pair with other nearby sights. If you’re exploring Jewish Sarajevo more broadly, consider visiting the Jewish Museum in the Old Temple and the Ashkenazi Synagogue across the Miljacka River. Dress casually but respectfully, expect a modest admission (or free entry for some shows), and give yourself 20–30 minutes, longer if an exhibition catches your eye.