The monastery complex of Savina includes three churches located in an incredible green, lush, forest area outside of Herceg Novi in the village of Savina. Only about two kilometers east of us. We decided rather than take the bus, we would hike.
The minute we stepped onto the grounds of this area, I could sense a wonderful peacefulness.
Almost magical.
Walking up the steps to the entrance gates.
The largest of the three is this Serbian Orthodox Church founded by the Duke of Saint Sava in the 14th century dedicated to the Assumption of Our Lady. It is interesting that trying to find information about the local sights and churches, fortresses, statues, etc appears to be very scarce. But it will get better because of their keen interest in becoming part of the European Union. Which means increased tourism...and in turn more information will be available.
(Below) Two of the churches with the mountains and sea as the backdrop. Spectacular.
The largest of the two is considered one of the most beautiful Christian Orthodox buildings of the late baroque period. Built between 1777 and 1799. This area includes a lovely courtyard and monastery lodging built in 1937, a monastery museum and treasury. We visited a museum store which is in the same building.
A view across the vast bay, looking towards the Adriatic Sea.
The small church was built in 1030! When I stepped inside I was taken aback by the frescoes that still remain on the walls of the church. They were only found in 1969. There was work being done on both churches when we visited.
Amazing....that these have been discovered.
Vineyards below grow grapes that are owned and operated by the monastery. The wine they produce is sold in the museum store on site.
Walking through the cemetery I felt very humbled. It is sacred, peaceful and the resting place for many. I found very old tombstones and more recent ones. Many are quite elaborate.
Each time we visit, any house of worship, I do feel compelled to light a candle in remembrance of family and friends that have passed on.
This resting spot really got my eye. It is a sculpture of a soldier on the front.
Bringing flowers to the grave of a loved one.
I love this photo with the impressive eternal resting places with crosses and the framework of the mountain range in the distance.
Trees are budding....we are close to the Mimosa Festival which means the Mimosa trees (here) will be brilliant yellow blossoms in February.
We are not finished with our visit yet. Only another 300 meters above these two churches is Saint Sava's Church.
Come on Little Debbie...we can do it!!!!!!
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