Today, the emblem was unveiled in which the European Film Academy declares Sarajevo’s Baščaršija as a European Film Treasure!
The unveiling was attended by representatives of the Association of Filmmakers in Bosnia and Herzegovina, local and international film professionals, representatives of the European Film Academy, Sarajevo Film Festival, as well as local government officials and project sponsors.
Speeches were given by Mr. Matthijs Wouter Knol from the European Film Academy, Ms. Elma Tataragić, Vice President of the Association of Filmmakers, and Mr. Kenan Magoda, Minister of Culture of the Sarajevo Canton.
With this recognition, the European Film Academy celebrates significant sites for European cinematography, places of historical importance that need to be preserved and protected, not only now but for future generations.
More than 40 films have been shot in Sarajevo’s Baščaršija, including both Bosnian-Herzegovinian and foreign productions. Some of the earliest and most significant local films feature scenes filmed in Baščaršija.
The status of a cinematic treasure will significantly contribute to the promotion of Baščaršija, attract foreign film productions and tourists, and help preserve Baščaršija. It is important to highlight that the significance of filming foreign productions in our country, besides investing money in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is that it provides work for local film professionals, which is of exceptional importance for the Bosnian-Herzegovinian film industry in these challenging times.
The project is supported by the Sarajevo Canton, the Ministry of Culture and Sports of the Sarajevo Canton, and the Federal Ministry of Culture and Sports, with Telemach BH as the project sponsor.
