10 things to do in The Monastery of Saint Nicholas (Manastiri i Shën Nikollës) Pogradec Albania
The Monastery of Saint Nicholas (Manastiri i Shën Nikollës) in Pogradec, Albania is a beautiful and historical religious site that is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. From its stunning architecture to its rich history, there is much to explore and experience at the Monastery of Saint Nicholas. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Monastery of Saint Nicholas:
1. Explore the Monastery Grounds: The Monastery of Saint Nicholas is a sprawling complex of buildings, courtyards, and gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and explore the many different structures, including the main church, several chapels, and a bell tower.
2. Visit the Church of Saint Nicholas: The Church of Saint Nicholas is the main church at the Monastery of Saint Nicholas. It was built in the 15th century and is a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture. Inside the church, you can view the impressive frescoes and mosaics that adorn the walls.
3. Learn about the Monastery’s History: The Monastery of Saint Nicholas was founded in the 11th century and has a long and fascinating history. Learn more about the monastery’s past by visiting the museum located on the grounds.
4. Take in the Views of Lake Ohrid: The Monastery of Saint Nicholas is located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, a stunning lake that is shared by Albania and North Macedonia. Take a moment to appreciate the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
5. Attend a Service: The Monastery of Saint Nicholas is a functioning monastery and still holds religious services. If you are visiting on a Sunday, consider attending a service to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the monastery.
6. Take a Boat Tour: The best way to appreciate the beauty of Lake Ohrid is to take a boat tour. There are several boat tours that depart from the Monastery of Saint Nicholas, and you can admire the lake and the surrounding landscape from the comfort of a boat.
7. Visit the Icon Museum: The Monastery of Saint Nicholas houses an impressive collection of icons from the 11th to the 19th centuries. Visit the Icon Museum to view these beautiful works of art.
8. Visit the Crypt: The Monastery of Saint Nicholas is home to a crypt that was built in the 13th century. It is believed to be the oldest crypt in Albania.
9. Explore the Library: The Monastery of Saint Nicholas is home to a library that contains over 10,000 books and manuscripts. Spend some time exploring the library and admiring the ancient texts.
10. Go for a Hike: The Monastery of Saint Nicholas is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Take a hike through the surrounding forests and admire the views of the lake and the mountains.
No matter how you choose to spend your time at the Monastery of Saint Nicholas, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. From its stunning architecture to its rich history, the Monastery of Saint Nicholas is an incredible religious site that is worth visiting.