Introduction
Manasija Monastery, located in the eastern part of Serbia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important monuments of Serbian medieval culture. It is a remarkable example of the Serbian Orthodox monastic complex, which includes the monastery, church, fortifications, and other structures. Manasija was built in the 15th century by Despot Stefan Lazarević, a powerful ruler of Serbia in the Middle Ages. The monastery is an iconic symbol of Serbia’s cultural and religious heritage, and its architectural beauty makes it a must-see destination for travelers.
History of Manasija Monastery
Manasija Monastery, also known as Resava Monastery, was built in the early 15th century by Despot Stefan Lazarević on the banks of the Resava River. The monastery was built as a fortification to protect the region from the Ottoman Empire. The monastery was constructed according to the principles of Serbian fort architecture and the walls are up to 10 meters high and 3 meters thick. Manasija was also used as a spiritual and cultural center, and it was a significant center of Serbian culture and literature in the Middle Ages.
The Manasija Monastery complex consists of the church, the fortifications, and several other structures. The church, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, is a single-nave building with a semi-circular apse and three domes. The walls are decorated with frescoes painted by the renowned Serbian painter Georgije Mitrofanović. The fortifications, which include towers, gates, and bastions, were built in the traditional Serbian style. The other structures include the refectory, the dormitory, and the belfry.
What to See at Manasija Monastery
Manasija Monastery is a popular tourist destination and a must-see for anyone visiting Serbia. The church is the most important structure in the complex and it is home to a number of important artifacts, including the Despot’s Throne, the Ostrog Bible, and the relics of Saint Sava. The fortifications are also worth exploring, as they provide an insight into the military strategy of the Serbian rulers in the middle ages.
The monastery also houses an important library, which contains over 1500 manuscripts and books, as well as a number of valuable religious artifacts. The library is open to visitors and offers a unique insight into the history and culture of medieval Serbia.
Visiting Manasija Monastery
Manasija Monastery is located in the eastern part of Serbia, about 50 kilometers from the capital city of Belgrade. It is easily accessible by car and regular bus services run between Belgrade and the monastery. The monastery is open to visitors every day from 8am to 6pm. There is no entrance fee, but donations are welcome.
Conclusion
Manasija Monastery is an impressive monument of Serbian medieval culture and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Serbia. The monastery complex includes the church, fortifications, refectory, dormitory, belfry, and library, all of which provide a unique insight into the history and culture of medieval Serbia. Manasija is easily accessible from Belgrade and it is open to visitors every day from 8am to 6pm. A visit to Manasija Monastery is sure to be a memorable experience.