MONASTÈRE ĐURĐEVI STUPOVI

The history of this monastery, in addition to its singular beauty, justifies a visit to the region. If its history goes back a long way, to its foundation in 1168, then its reconstruction in the 13th century by King Dragutin, its history becomes notable when it undergoes a tragic destruction during the Balkan wars in 1912. Thus, some of its frescoes, especially under the entrance arch, are burned by terrible bombings. Miraculously, the chapel is still intact and, surrounded by a fortified enclosure and monastic apartments, it appears very beautiful on its promontory. The foundation of the monastery has its own legend: imprisoned by his brothers, Stefan Nmanja vows to build a church dedicated to St. George if he escapes. He succeeded and even defeated the Byzantine army afterwards, sealing the building project.

The style is Byzantine but the location forces him to reduce the proportions. Two bell towers were added to the western entrance, which gave the church an unusual appearance. It was then Dragutin who transformed it. The exodus of 1690 was a fatal blow and some of its stones were used to build the fortress of Novi Pazar. Do not miss the frescoes of the chapel, painted on Dragutin's order, and still in good condition. Three generations of Dragutin's family are depicted, among scenes of the Serbian state council. Note, more modest, the church Sv Petar, 2 km from Novi Pazar, also on a promontory and well indicated.