Serbian Orthodox Church of the Holy Prince Lazar — Attraction in Birmingham

The Serbian Orthodox Church of the Holy Prince Lazar in Bournville, Birmingham is the first purpose-built Serbian Orthodox church in the UK. The church was built between 1965 and 1968 to serve the large population of Serbian exiles living in Birmingham after the Second World War. Designed by Yugoslavian architect Dr Dragomir Tadic and Bournville Village Trust, the architectural style is traditional 14th-century Byzantine. The interior of the church is a stunning display, completely covered in traditional Byzantine fresco-secco painted by the Serbian artist Dušan Mihajlović. The impressive dome bears the image of Christ Pantocrator and in the curve of the apse above the altar the Virgin Mary can be seen peeking out above the icon screen. The lowest sections of the walls are painted with warrior saints, above these are patriarchs and priestly saints. Higher still, in the arches of the ceiling are the apostles and scenes from the twelve major Christian feasts. The frescos are copies of the best known medieval wall paintings in Serbian monasteries, many of which were endangered by the Kosovo War and systematic destruction of Serbian heritage at the end of the 20th century. Much of the fabric of the church was brought over from Yugoslavia during the construction. The marble for floor and walls, the sandstone columns, the walnut furniture and the candelabra all have symbolic associations with sacred places in Yugoslavia. Both the walnut timber and beaten copper overlay of the icon screen made the 1000+ miles journey to Bourneville. Holy Prince Lazar of Kosovo can be found in several places in the church, such as the left most icon of the icon screen. Relics of the prince were also laid into the foundations of the church. Inside the church, a plethora of other important relics and icons...

I was recently baptised at St. Lazarica, and words can hardly express how grateful I am.

From the moment you walk into the church, you feel the beauty and holiness that lives there. The icons, the peace, the presence—it’s truly one of the most awe-inspiring churches in the UK.

Father Nenad welcomed us with such warmth and kindness. That renowned Serbian hospitality flows naturally through him—he carries it with such humility and grace.

The baptism itself was incredibly special. My entire family and a close friend were all baptised into the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. To be baptised by a bishop was something I never imagined possible—it was a dream come true.

The Divine Liturgy moved us to tears. It was so profound and full of God’s presence that my friend, who had never experienced Orthodoxy before, now wants to be baptised too.

Receiving Holy Communion for the first time after baptism was unforgettable. We were then invited to share in a Lenten meal with the parish community—simple, humble, beautiful food… and a little rakija to celebrate!

Orthodoxy is not just beautiful—it’s real. It’s the fullness of truth. The bishop and clergy truly live their faith. Their humility and love left a deep impression on all of us.

Though we travelled from Brighton, we’ll always make time to return. St. Lazarica is a truly holy place, and Father Nenad will always hold a special place...

We discovered this extraordinary orthodox church in Birmingham quite chance whilst visiting my daughter, the exterior is interesting but not more than but it belies the truly beautiful interior. The artwork blazes with colour and tells of scenes from the story of Christ. If the walls and windows are just wonderful, to look up at the curved ceiling of the dome is to behold Christ in Glory a truly astonishing view of the risen Christ. Sadly unless you're a church member, it is only open to the public for a few days a year. Details of which can be had from church members on a Sunday or from its website. If in our great Second City don't miss it if at...