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The coppersmiths of Kazandžiluk: the back story
The back story
About The coppersmiths of Kazandžiluk: the back story
Walk down Kazandžiluk, the coppersmiths’ street, and you will hear it before you see it: the steady tapping of craftsmen engraving copper trays, coffee pots and plates.
Streets of crafts
Ottoman Baščaršija was organised by craft, and the street names remain: Kazandžiluk for coppersmiths, Kujundžiluk for goldsmiths, Sarači for saddlers. A few family workshops still work copper by hand, some for several generations.
What to buy
The classic buy is a Bosnian coffee set: a džezva, fildžan cups and a tray. Engraved trays, plates and lamps are popular too, and some workshops engrave names. Look also for carpets and kilims, silver filigree and hand-made slippers.
A coffee set from Kazandžiluk is the most Sarajevan souvenir there is.
How to buy well
Hand-engraved pieces take time and cost more than machine-made ones; ask to see the work, and ask whether the copper is tin-lined for coffee. Prices are often negotiable in a friendly way.
Our advice: visit an established workshop such as Kazandžija Baščaušević or Kazandžijska radnja Hidić, watch the engraving, and buy a coffee set to take home, then use it.
Why it's on our list
- Streets of crafts
- What to buy
- How to buy well
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with The coppersmiths of Kazandžiluk: the back story before you go.