Baščaršija, which is the economic center of Sarajevo, was formed in the mid 15th century and reached its highest peak in second half of 16th century.
In the pure center of Baščaršija were erected two large domed mosques: Čekrečijina or Čekrekči Muslihudina Mosque, in 1526, and Baščaršijska or Havadže Durak Mosque in 1528.
In the year 1528 for the first time is mentioned mahala (residential quarter) of Masjid Havadže Duraka in Sarajevo. It is located near Baščaršijska Mosque built by Hodža (Muslim priest) Durak. It means that the mosque was built before the 1528, not by the end of 16th century as was previously thaught.
Hodža Durak had a son Mehmed-čelebija, who before 1541, had erected mekteb (religious primary school) near Firudz beys Hammam (bath). Hodža Durak in year 1541 is already mentioned as deceased.
Baščaršijska mosque
It was built of dressed stone and vaulted dome that stands on eight-angled body with eight arched windows. Each side has five windows.
The mosque did not had its cemetery, because it was close to the center of the bazaar, and around it were not residential quarters.
Above the entrance there is the inscription on the panel about the renovation and decoration of the mosque in 1866/1867. Background label was painted white, with black letters, which are Nash-talik style.
“This attractive place was first to improve deceased Hadji Husejin.
The walls of the building are now nicely decorated by
Nakaš Faga’s Mustafa.
The reconstruction date is one thousand thow hundred and eighty third year.
May for the reconstructor and nakash be the most beautiful prays.
Year 1283“ (1866/1867).
Originally, Baščaršijska mosque had a wooden dome that was destroyed in a fire 1697, which was later rebuilt and is the one of present day.
In 1762, Mehmed-pasha Muhsinović repainted the mosque of his own cost. In 1876 Hajji Muhamed Kumašin planted poplar just next to the minaret.
In 1945 the porch with three domes was destroyed, since it was in bad situation and the new one of a wooden roof was constructed and covered with tiles.
