Prohor Monastery, officially known as the Monastery of St. Prohor Pčinjski, is a serene sanctuary nestled in the lush landscapes of southern Serbia, near the border with North Macedonia. Founded in the 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, it is one of the oldest and most significant monastic communities in the region.
Upon arrival, visitors are immediately struck by the monastery's picturesque setting amidst verdant hills and dense forests, which provides a tranquil atmosphere conducive to reflection and spiritual rejuvenation. The architectural beauty of the monastery is evident in its harmonious blend of Byzantine and local styles, with the main church's intricate frescoes being a highlight. These frescoes, some dating back to the 14th century, depict biblical scenes and the lives of saints with vivid colors and meticulous detail, offering a glimpse into the religious and artistic heritage of medieval Serbia.
A visit to Prohor Monastery is not just a journey through history but also an opportunity to experience the living tradition of Orthodox monasticism. The resident monks, known for their hospitality, welcome visitors warmly, often sharing insights into the monastery's history, spiritual practices, and daily life. The monastery also houses a relic of its patron saint, Prohor Pčinjski, which attracts pilgrims seeking spiritual solace and blessings.
Walking through the monastery's peaceful courtyards, with the gentle sounds of nature and the occasional chant from the church, one can't help but feel a profound sense of tranquility and connection to a timeless spiritual tradition. Prohor Monastery is a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty converge, making it a truly enriching destination for...
Read moreThis monastery must be on your list to visit. The Monastery of Venerable Prohor Pcinjski, which is also known as the "Monastery of Miracles", is one of the oldest and most beautiful in Serbia. It is located in a beautiful location, on the Kozjak mountain, surrounded by dense forest and lots of greenery. Nature here is only for enjoyment. The road to the monastery is good and paved on both sides, both on the side of Bujanovac and on the side of Macedonia. The road is one lane in one direction and there are sharp bends in some places, but this should not stop you from visiting it. I am visiting the monastery for the first time and I am delighted. There is a large parking lot in front of the entrance. Before entering the monastery courtyard, you will pass the souvenir shop. There you can buy icons, ajvar, sweet from wild strawberries, honey, marmalade, church books, magnets and pendants, bracelets and many other church things. The monastery courtyard is beautifully decorated, with many flowers. In the yard are the Vranje and King's lodgings. This monastery has its own economy, and the museum is located next to the parking lot. The monastery has its own mill and restaurant. The interior of the church of Venerable Prohor Pcinjski is beautiful, with many old icons from the 14th and 15th centuries and beautiful frescoes. The river Pcinja flows by the monastery and gives the monastery a beautiful...
Read moreI will not repeat everything already said here, but rather share with you an unique experience from today´s visit: after we seen the monastery, we asked a monk where we can have lunch, since we found info on the net there's a restaurant in the complex. But instead, he offered us to come inside and to have the lunch prepared for them. I hesitated, since my food habits are not compliant with monastery regulations (no meat!), but my wife insisted and so did my 10 years daughter. We got something real and extraordinary: fantastic lentil soup, boiled eggs, cheese, "kaimak" (milk fat), special "ajvar" (cannot translate - you have to try, although this one was very special, with egg plant), roasted paprikas, some excellent rice, cucumbers, cabage and of course, "rakija" (plum brandy). As I said, I prefer completely different type of food, but even for me this was simply GREAT. Obviously, the life in monastery have also some quite nice sides not entirely etheric... When we asked at the end for the price, it was 3,5 EUR! Of course, we left a few times more, as contribution. I do not know is this a regular habit for them, but if you go there, just ask - it cannot hurt, but it might be...
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