This space was discovered by the organizations, LIFT and CRVENA, in 2013 and they decided to intervene by investigating ways in which it could be enhanced to become a community space.

The Marijin Dvor (Maria’s Court or Maria’s Yard) building is a prime example of Austro-Hungarian and Central European palatial residences in Sarajevo. It was built in phases, between 1885 and 1899, to serve as a square residential and commercial building.

The area behind the building, known locally as “Marindvorsko”, is the loveliest and largest courtyard in town. The building’s façade represents Neo-Renaissance and Classical styles, which were very typical of all the buildings from that period that were designed by Karl Paržik.

The European Prize for Urban Public Space was first started in 2000 and is the only one of its kind in Europe. The aim of the award is to recognize, protect and promote urban public spaces and it was set up following an exhibit, “The Reconquest of Europe”, which was organized in 1999 by the Center of Contemporary Culture of Barcelona (CCCB).