VILLAGE OF HOCA I MADHE - VELIKA HOČA

This beautiful village with its well restored tower houses (kulas) has a population of about 120 inhabitants, about 40% of whom are Serbs. In 1198, the Hilandar Charter first mentioned it when Stefan Nemanja, founder of the Nemanjić dynasty, donated it to the prestigious Serbian Orthodox monastery of Hilandar on the Athos, itself rebuilt by Stefan Nemanja and his son Saint Sava. This dating makes it one of the oldest present-day settlements in Kosovo. As a result of this donation, Velika Hoča became a wine supplier to the monks of Hilandar, but also an important economic and spiritual centre.

Churches. The village has up to 24 churches and eight monasteries. The oldest church in the village is the Saint-Nicolas church, built and richly decorated with frescos in 1345, and partially rebuilt in the 16th century. The church of Saint-Jean, whose frescoes were painted around 1580, also probably dates from the 14th century. Of this multitude of buildings, only eight buildings and five ruins remain today, many of which are protected by Serbia. These are the churches of St. Nicholas, St. John, St. Stephen, Holy Sunday, Last Judgment, St. Luke, St. Anne, St. Basil, St. Peter's Apostle, Dormition of the Mother of God, Prophet Elijah, Holy Archangel Gabriel and Holy Conception.

Wine and raki. The village also houses several cellars, including that of the Dečani monastery, which produces its wine there, at least since the reign of Emperor Stefan Dušan (1331-1355). It is possible to visit it and buy wine. Other families also make a living from viticulture and rakia production. This is the case of the Petrović family, where it is possible to taste wines, rakia and other ajvar as well as lunch. However, it is necessary to give advance notice. However, the family members only speak Serbian. It is recommended to contact the Rahovec/Orahovac Tourist Office for organization if necessary.