Interior of Husejnija Mosque after fire: Firefighters used extinguishers, not water, avoiding major damage

(Patria) - The Husein-kapetan Gradaščević Mosque in Gradačac, Husejnija, has been undergoing renovation and restoration for years. The restoration of its interior was completed in the spring of this year. It was built in 1826.

Although relatively quickly extinguished, the fire that broke out today still destroyed the interior of the mosque. Although arson is suspected, the authorities have not yet given a final word.

Photos of the interior were published by Radio Gradačac.

Restorer Nihad Čengić praised the firefighters' actions for Radio Gradačac, stating that they extinguished the fire with extinguishers, not water, thereby minimizing the damage to the mosque's interior. This will certainly facilitate both the restoration and remediation after the fire.

In 2004, the Commission for the Preservation of National Monuments of Bosnia and Herzegovina declared the "Architectural Ensemble – Husejnija (Husein-kapetan Gradaščević) Mosque in Gradačac" a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This religious building is part of the unique cultural and historical complex of Gradačac, which includes the mosque, ablution area, library, cemetery with tombstones, and entrance gates. The mosque courtyard is entered through two gates. The Sahara tower is also missing.

It is characterized by its octagonal dome and exceptionally tall minaret (25 meters). It has a stone base and a brick-built body, and at a height of 24.30 meters, there is the minaret's balcony with rich decorations.