Gornjak Monastery
Gornjak Monastery is a 14th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery situated in the Gornjacka gorge, near Petrovac, Serbia. Founded in 1379 by King Lazar of Serbia, it was established for monks serving under Gregory of Sinai and completed in 1380. The monastery has a history of destruction and rebuilding, most recently its church was reconstructed starting in 1953 on its original foundations.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1379 by King Lazar of Serbia.
- ›Completed in 1380 by Elder Grigorije and his brethren.
- ›The church is dedicated to the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos to the Temple.
- ›Has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout its history.
- ›Features a triconch church with pilasters supporting a dome.
- ›Caves nearby house the hermitage of Gregory of Sinai and his relics.
Triconch
- Hermitage of Gregory of Sinai and His Relics In Nearby Caves
- Triconch Church With Dome
- Porch Built In 1845
- Belfry
žDrelo
King Lazar of Serbia, Gregory of Sinai, Elder Grigorije, Priestmonk Vasilige
- Founded In 1379
- Construction Finished In 1380
- Burned Down In 1788 By Turks
- Sacked By Bulgarians During World War I
- Burned Again By Nazi Germany During World War Ii
- Church Rebuilt Starting In 1953
About Gornjak Monastery
Gornjak Monastery is a significant 14th-century Serbian Orthodox monastic complex located in the picturesque Gornjacka gorge, near Petrovac, Serbia. Known historically as Ždrelo until the late 18th century, the monastery was founded in 1379 by King Lazar of Serbia. Its establishment was intended for monks serving under the spiritual guidance of Gregory of Sinai, with construction completed in 1380 by Elder Grigorije and his brethren.
History and Rebuilding
The history of Gornjak Monastery is marked by periods of both flourishing and destruction. It has been rebuilt multiple times since its initial construction. Notable destructive events include its burning by Ottoman Turks in 1788, being sacked by Bulgarian forces during World War I, and further damage from Nazi German forces during World War II. The main church, built on the original 1380 foundations, began its reconstruction in 1953 under the guidance of priestmonk Vasilige.
Architecture and Features
The central church of Gornjak Monastery is characterized by a triconch architectural design, with pilasters supporting its dome. Adjacent to the church, to the south and west, is a porch constructed in 1845, which is overlooked by a tall belfry. A notable aspect of the monastery's vicinity are the caves that served as the hermitage for Gregory of Sinai, and to which his relics are associated.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Gornjak Monastery founded?
Gornjak Monastery was founded in 1379 by King Lazar of Serbia. Its construction was completed by Elder Grigorije and his brethren in 1380.
What is the significance of Gornjak Monastery?
The monastery was founded by King Lazar and was intended for monks serving under Gregory of Sinai. It holds historical and religious importance within Serbian Orthodox tradition.
Has Gornjak Monastery always been in its current state?
No, Gornjak Monastery has faced significant destruction and rebuilding throughout its history. It was burned by Turks in 1788, sacked by Bulgarians in World War I, and burned again by Nazi Germany in World War II. The church was rebuilt starting in 1953.
Where is Gornjak Monastery located?
The monastery is located in the Gornjacka gorge, situated between Žagubica and Petrovac na Mlavi in Serbia.
What architectural style is characteristic of Gornjak Monastery?
The church building is of a triconch design, featuring pilasters that support the dome. A porch was added to the south and west of the church in 1845, and a belfry overlooks the western part of the porch.
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