Sarajevo [UDYU]

7th February 2011 / Comments (0) / Views (1318)

Sarajevo (pronounced Sarayevo) is the capital of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city first put itself on a world map by hosting the 1984 Winter Olympics, known for a legendary mascot called Vučko, a cartoonish wolf, still oftenly portrayed on t-shirts nowadays. The olympics brought then Yugoslavian nation their first winter olympics medal, when Jure Franko won silver in the giant slalom. The olympic heritage is still very rich – from Jahorina and Bjelašnica resorts to the old bobsleigh track in the surrounding hills.

Nowadays Sarajevo is becoming the regional cultural capital, hosting one of the most premium European red carpet events – the annual Sarajevo Film Festival, attended by numerous hollywood stars and featuring screenings of many box office jackpots. Beside culture, the Bosnian capitol is lately becoming known for its footballers, especially for one of the most talented strikers in the world, Edin Džeko of Manchester City. In general, football is very popular among Bosnians and Sarajevo boasts three notable football stadiums.

If you decide to visit Sarajevo – it was by the way listed as one of the top ten cities to visit by Lonely Planet – you have to come there hungry. Baščaršija Square has to be world's best street food spot. Numerous »čevabdžinice« restaurants offer heavenly delicious čevapčiči, burek in all forms and fillings and the famous baklava treat. If you're more of a restaurant type, try the Kibe restaurant, offering traditional Bosnian dishes and a stunning view to the city. To help your food down the throat, order yourself a bottle of premium quality Sarajevsko beer.

As a tribute to one of the Balkans' most stunning cities, Toolroom is releasing Umek's Sarajevo track. If you want to hear it live in its »original« environment, attend Umek's upcoming gig in Sarajevo, organized by Prodavnica zvuka.

More photos here.