Studenica - symbol of peace and forgiveness: St. Sava reconciled feuding brothers over his father's relics

Photo: Ivan Strahinic

Amazed by the natural beauty at the foot of the Radocelo mountain, in the valley of the Studenica River, Serbian Grand Prince Stefan Nemanja in the 12th century built a church there dedicated to the Mother of God.

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It is referred to as the "Mother of Churches", due to its architectural style and the fact that its founder is the progenitor of one of Serbia's ruling families.

On the northern slopes of Mt. Golija, in the place that was "a hunting ground for beasts," a monastery complex sprang up over time. In addition to the Church of the Mother of God, there is also the Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of Saints Joachim and Anna, and one whose foundations have been preserved.

Studenica was also the political, cultural, spiritual and medical center of medieval Serbia.

What Studenica is famous for are the frescoes, most of which date back to the 13th and the 14th centuries. They were created by the best masters, just like the magnificent sculptures that decorate the exterior of this holy place.

In 1986, UNESCO included Studenica on the World Heritage List.

Photo: Ivan Strahinic

(Ona.rs)