War Childhood Museum

The War Childhood Museum in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a truly moving place that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of children during wartime. It’s a museum that stands out because of its personal and emotional exhibits, which are shared through the stories and belongings of those who were kids during the siege of Sarajevo.

History

The museum opened its doors in 2017, inspired by Jasminka Halilović’s book “”Childhood During War: Sarajevo 1992-1995.”” This book gathered stories from hundreds of survivors, which were then turned into a permanent exhibition featuring 50 personal items. Each item comes with a story or memory from the war. Over time, the museum has broadened its scope to include contemporary conflict zones and has gained international acclaim, even winning the Council of Europe Museum Prize in 2018.

How to Get There

You’ll find the War Childhood Museum at Logavina 32 street, right in the heart of Sarajevo’s historic city center. Parking can be a bit tricky, so it’s best to use public transport or just walk. It’s only a quick five-minute stroll from Baščaršija’s main square.

List of Attractions

– Permanent Exhibition: The main draw is the permanent exhibition, showcasing 50 personal items like toys, school books, emergency ration kits, and dolls. Each piece is linked to a story or memory from the war, shared by its owner through a personal audioguide.
– Rotating Exhibits: The museum keeps things fresh by regularly changing its exhibits, so there’s always something new to see.
– Community Contributions: The museum is involved in research and advocacy, working on projects with children in places like Syria and Ukraine. It’s become an international platform that amplifies the voices of children affected by war.

Ticket Information

– Admission Prices:
– Kids under 6: Free
– Youth 6-17: 5 KM
– University students: 8 KM
– Adults: 10 KM
– Family pass: 25 KM
– Free entry every last Thursday of the month from 5pm to 7pm, plus on special dates announced on the museum’s website and social media.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Ahead: It’s a popular spot, so booking group visits in advance is a good idea to make the most of your time there.
2. Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible for those with mobility aids, including wheelchair users and families with strollers. There’s also a baby changing area.
3. Guided Tours: You can arrange guided tours in Bosnian sign language with at least five days’ notice.
4. Audio Guides: The personal audioguides offer a deeper dive into the stories behind each item, making the visit even more meaningful.
5. Respectful Behavior: It’s a place for remembrance and reflection, so visitors are encouraged to be respectful during their visit.
6. Support the Museum: As an independent non-profit, the museum appreciates support through donations or by becoming a friend of the museum.

Visiting the War Childhood Museum is a powerful way to learn about the resilience and strength of children during conflict. It’s an emotional yet enlightening experience that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits.