Dobrovoljna, nevladina, interesna, nestranačka i neprofitna organizacija stručnog, profesionalnog i društvenog karaktera.
Sarajevo the town of thousand fountains 2022-2023
- reviving the tradition of water fountain use -
Canton Sarajevo – Municipality Centar
Green Council BiH in cooperation with ALA BiH – Association of Landscape Architects in Bosnia and Herzegovina
2022 – 2023
Financier: Heinrich Böll Foundation, Office for Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia.
Description: Promoting Traditional and Contemporary Green meanings of water fountains in Sarajevo with the goal of inviting local populations, as well as visitors, to use the fountains. Mapping of the existing fountains for proposal that will include the new onse for sustainable, teritorialy banaced offer for clean free water in Sarajevo. Moving toward a greener future and raising awareness of the negative sides of single use plastic py promoting reusable bottles, as well as providing a significant amount to give to the general public as a part of the project.
Promotion of the tourist potencial and sustainable services that cities should offer in line with decarbonization and circular economy measures
Image of Prijepoljčeva Fountain. (c) Source: Sarajevo Public Fountains, www.cesma.ba
Project Year 2022: Initiating the Vision
Impressions from the public forum and project presentation
Fountains have long been an essential part of Sarajevo’s cultural and urban landscape, providing clean water and serving as gathering places for the community. However, with rapid urbanization and changing priorities, many of these historic fountains fell into disrepair, and the tradition of building and maintaining them was largely forgotten.
Recognizing the importance of preserving this legacy, the Association of Landscape Architects in Bosnia and Herzegovina (ALA BIH), together with the Green Council and support from the Heinrich Böll Foundation, launched the project “Sarajevo, the City of a Thousand Fountains – Reviving the Tradition of Fountain Use.” The initiative aims to restore existing fountains, construct new ones, and reestablish fountains as both functional and cultural landmarks in Sarajevo.
The project includes mapping and maintaining current fountains, designing new ones, and ensuring that they provide free, sustainable access to clean drinking water. The effort also promotes reducing plastic waste by encouraging the use of reusable water bottles. By combining practical restoration work with public awareness campaigns and collaboration with local authorities, the project fosters a deeper understanding of the environmental, cultural, and social value of public fountains.
Through this initiative, ALA BIH and the Green Council aim to reconnect Sarajevo with its rich tradition of fountains, ensuring they remain a source of clean water and a symbol of sustainability and heritage for future generations.
Mapping and Documentation of Sarajevo’s Public Fountains: Existing, Proposed, and Revitalized Locations
The project “Sarajevo, the City of a Thousand Fountains – Reviving the Tradition of Fountain Use” emphasizes the importance of preserving and modernizing Sarajevo’s public fountains, both as a cultural legacy and a sustainable resource. Beyond physical restoration, it also seeks to address the environmental impact of modern consumption patterns by reducing the use of disposable plastic bottles. Public fountains are being reimagined as accessible, functional, and environmentally friendly alternatives for clean drinking water in urban spaces.
A critical aspect of the project is mapping existing fountains and identifying opportunities for new installations. This ensures equitable distribution across the city, allowing all residents and visitors to benefit from easy access to fresh water. The initiative also prioritizes regular cleaning and maintenance, working closely with public enterprises to ensure that all fountains are safe and functional.
The project incorporates community engagement through workshops and public awareness campaigns, focusing on promoting the use of reusable water bottles. This approach not only reduces waste but also reconnects residents with Sarajevo’s tradition of relying on local water sources. Additionally, the educational component highlights the role of fountains in sustainable urban design and their potential to inspire similar initiatives in other cities.
By reviving this tradition, the project also aims to contribute to tourism, positioning Sarajevo as a green, forward-thinking city that values its heritage. Fountains, as cultural landmarks, provide a unique opportunity to blend historical preservation with contemporary environmental strategies, showcasing Sarajevo as a leader in sustainable urban practices.
Project Year 2023: Advancing the Mission
Description: Promoting Traditional and Contemporary Green meanings of water fountains in Sarajevo with the goal of inviting local populations, as well as visitors, to use the fountains. Mapping of the existing fountains for proposal that will include the new onse for sustainable, teritorialy banaced offer for clean free water in Sarajevo. Moving toward a greener future and raising awareness of the negative sides of single use plastic py promoting reusable bottles, as well as providing a significant amount to give to the general public as a part of the project.
Promotion of the tourist potencial and sustainable services that cities should offer in line with decarbonization and circular economy measures
Financier: Heinrich Böll Foundation, Office for Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia.
Learn more about the ‘Sarajevo, the City of a Thousand Fountains’ project and its efforts to preserve tradition and promote sustainability. Click below for details.