Despić House Reopened to Visitors

(Patria) - Following the completion of the Svrzo House renovation, the Despić House, one of the most important cultural-historical buildings in Sarajevo, was also ceremoniously opened today, on Orthodox Christmas. This holder of cultural heritage, which is part of the Museum of Sarajevo, has undergone extensive restoration that included the replacement of carpentry, painting, conservation-restoration works, and detailed cleaning and arrangement of the space. All these measures were taken to preserve the authenticity of this unique cultural monument.

The renovation of the Despić House was made possible thanks to the support of the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Sarajevo Canton and the KS Government, who provided the necessary funds for the restoration of this architectural gem.

The Minister of Culture and Sports of KS, Kenan Magoda, stated that the preservation of cultural heritage is crucial for future generations.

"The Despić House is not just a building; it is a symbol of our identity, our tradition, and our past. The ceremonial opening of the renovated Despić House on this festive day encourages us to continue investing in the preservation of our heritage and to cooperate in order to preserve valuable parts of our history," said Minister Magoda.

He also emphasized that the Ministry of Culture and Sports of KS, in cooperation with the Museum of Sarajevo and the Institute for the Protection of Cultural-Historical and Natural Heritage of KS, has achieved significant success, and announced that work will continue, including the renovation of the Despić House facade, with the help of the City of Sarajevo.

KS Prime Minister Nihad Uk emphasizes that the KS Government is committed to preserving our cultural heritage, which it demonstrates through significant investments in the renovation of cultural-historical buildings in Sarajevo.

"The fact that the first theater performance in Sarajevo was held in this building gives it a special charm. This house is not only a symbol of Sarajevo's rich past but also a testament to the coexistence, diversity, and unity that have always characterized our environment. Thanks to the dedicated work of everyone involved in this project, we have managed to preserve the stories of the Despić family, of Sarajevo, and of a time when different cultures, religions, and customs created a unique harmony," said Prime Minister Uk and invited all citizens and visitors to visit the Despić House and immerse themselves in its story.

The Director of the Institute for the Protection of Cultural-Historical and Natural Heritage of KS, Boris Trapara, pointed out that the Despić House renovation project was multidisciplinary.

"The Despić House is a representative example of architectural development from the Ottoman period to the Austro-Hungarian era. We actively participated in all phases of the renovation, including crack repair, conservation-restoration works, and research that preceded the renovation itself," stated Director Trapara.

The Director of the Museum of Sarajevo, Indira Kučuk Sorguč, emphasized the importance of facade revitalization, which is planned for 2025, thanks to the decision of the Sarajevo City Council.

"The Despić House is an invaluable heritage, and thanks to the Orthodox Sarajevans who left this house as a legacy, we have the opportunity today to preserve and showcase the richness of our cultural heritage. Thank you to everyone who helped in the renovation of this building," stated Kučuk Sorguč.

The Despić House, dating from the end of the 17th century, belonged to the prominent merchant family Despić, and is today a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is located at the corner of Obala Kulina bana and Despićeva Street, in the old part of Sarajevo, and represents a unique example of the life of a wealthy Serbian Orthodox merchant family in Sarajevo.

For all visitors, the Despić House remains open as a museum object, offering insight into the life and tradition of the Despić family, as well as the cultural heritage of Sarajevo.