Decan Monastery is a stunning medieval monastery located in the city of Decan, Kosovo. It is one of the largest and most important religious sites in the Balkan region and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery was founded in the 13th century and has been an important spiritual center for the Serbian Orthodox Church ever since. With its stunning architecture and rich history, Decan Monastery is a must-see for any traveler to the region. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Decan Monastery.
1. Explore the Monastery Complex: The Decan Monastery complex is made up of several churches, chapels, and other buildings. The main building is the Church of the Holy Virgin, which was built in the 13th century and is the largest and oldest church in the complex. Other buildings include the Church of St. Demetrius, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Church of St. John the Baptist. Visitors can explore the complex and admire the intricate architecture and stunning frescoes.
2. Visit the Museum: The Monastery Museum is located inside the Church of the Holy Virgin and contains a wide range of artifacts from the monastery’s history. The museum includes ancient manuscripts, icons, and other religious artifacts. It also features a large collection of coins and other artifacts from the Ottoman period.
3. Take a Hike: The area around the Decan Monastery is beautiful and offers a great opportunity for hiking. There are several trails that lead up to the monastery and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the monastery and the surrounding area.
4. Attend a Service: The Decan Monastery is a functioning monastery and visitors can attend services held by the monks. Services are held in Serbian and usually include chanting, singing, and readings from the Bible. The services are open to all visitors and offer a unique insight into the spiritual life of the monastery.
5. Visit the Monastery Gardens: The monastery complex is surrounded by beautiful gardens that have been carefully tended for centuries. The gardens contain a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers, and are a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area.
6. Learn About the Monastery’s History: The Decan Monastery has a long and rich history that stretches back to the 13th century. Visitors can learn about the monastery’s history by visiting the museum or taking a guided tour.
7. Take a Cooking Class: The Decan Monastery offers cooking classes that teach visitors how to make traditional Serbian dishes. The classes are held in the monastery’s kitchen and are a great way to learn about the local cuisine.
8. Visit the Monastery’s Shop: The monastery has a shop where visitors can purchase traditional Serbian souvenirs and other items. The shop also sells books about the monastery’s history and the local area.
9. Take a Wine Tasting Tour: The Decan Monastery is located in the heart of the wine-producing region of Kosovo. Visitors can take a guided tour of the local wineries and taste some of the region’s finest wines.
10. Attend a Festival: The Decan Monastery hosts several festivals throughout the year that celebrate the monastery’s history and culture. The festivals usually include traditional music, food, and dancing. Visitors can also take part in the festivities and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Decan Monastery is a stunning and historic site that is well worth visiting. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual experience or simply want to explore the area’s history and culture, the monastery has something for everyone.