A couple of days ago, a photograph from an Instagram story surfaced on various social media platforms. The image depicted a citizen by the name of Slavko Kljajevic urging the Orthodox community in Bijelo Polje to participate in a protest against the restoration of the Haxhi-Danushina mosque in the Montenegrin city. This particular mosque, originally constructed in the 18th century, suffered destruction during the bombings in 1944.
The aftermath of the Second World War saw the complete demolition of the mosque, with a park and a memorial dedicated to the fallen soldiers taking its place. Recently, over four thousand residents of Bijelo Polje signed a petition initiated by the Party for Justice and Reconciliation, advocating for the reconstruction of the mosque. The call for restoration has garnered significant support from the local community, highlighting the importance of preserving historical and cultural landmarks in the region.
The controversy surrounding the reconstruction of the Haxhi-Danushina mosque underscores the complex historical and cultural dynamics at play in Bijelo Polje. The mosque, with its rich history dating back to the 18th century, holds immense significance for the community, serving as a symbol of religious and architectural heritage. The destruction of the mosque during the bombings of 1944 left a void in the city’s landscape, prompting calls for its revival from residents and activists alike. The petition signed by thousands of individuals reflects a collective desire to honor the past and preserve the cultural identity of Bijelo Polje, emphasizing the need for dialogue and understanding among different religious and ethnic groups in the region.
