Sase Monastery

Sase Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox monastic complex situated in the mining village of Sase, nestled in the hills between Srebrenica and Bratunac in northeastern Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its historical significance is rooted in its founding by Serbian royalty and its connection to prominent monastic traditions.

History and Renovation

The monastery's origins date back to 1242, when it was established by Serbian King Stefan Uroš I. It held the status of a metochion, or property, of Hilandar Monastery. The original church foundation and walls were uncovered and renovated in 1850. A more extensive renovation project commenced in 1989, marked by the consecration of foundations for a new monastery residence and the installation of a copper roof, celebrating the monastery's 750th anniversary. However, the onset of the Bosnian War in the early 1990s disrupted these plans. By early 1992, the chapel had sustained damage, and the newly constructed residence was destroyed. Following the conflict, monastic life was re-established through the efforts of Bishop Vasilije of Zvornik and Tuzla. The old monastery chapel was subsequently demolished, and a new one was erected in 2003.

Architecture and Features

The contemporary Sase Monastery comprises a chapel, an ablution fountain, and a residential building. The chapel's interior is adorned with vibrant frescoes executed in the traditional style, illustrating the lives of various saints. An ornate, gilded iconostasis separates the altar area. Adding a touch of historical curiosity, a Roman tombstone discovered nearby is displayed within the monastery courtyard.