Museums of Sarajevo: Despić House
Despić House, the oldest part of
which was built during the 17th century, was bequeathed to the city of Sarajevo
at the end of the 1960s by Pero Despić.
As a descendent of this prominent Sarajevo family, it was Pero’s wish that Despić House, now an annex of the Museum of Sarajevo, serve as an exhibit that would show the way of life for one old Serbian family. It was also a way to preserve the memory of the Despić family, which left an indelible trace on one period of Sarajevo history.
The Despićs, who made their fortune
as artisans and traders, were members of the Sarajevo elite at the end of the
19th century and beginning of the 20th century. Despić House even served as a
precursor to the city’s modern theater, with the first theatrical performances
given in the drawing room of the home.
The house contains many
interesting items which belonged to members of the family, including the will
made by the most famous and influential Despić, Hajji Makso, as well as the
piano that belonged to his Austrian daughter-in-law, Wilhemina "Mina” Despić,
which was produced by a family-run company, Neubauer, in Vienna.
The Despić family also donated another house to the city of Sarajevo, which is now the Museum of Literature and Performing Arts of BiH.
Source: http://sarajevo.travel/en
