10 Things to Do in Church of St. Nicholas (Manastiri i Shën Nikollës) Lipjan Kosovo
Kosovo is a land of ancient history and culture, and a visit to the Church of St. Nicholas (Manastiri i Shën Nikollës) in Lipjan is a must for any traveler. Located in the municipality of Lipjan, this historic church is the site of the first Serbian Orthodox monastery founded in Kosovo. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and the many activities that can be enjoyed here, the Church of St. Nicholas is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the region. Here are 10 things to do when you visit the Church of St. Nicholas in Lipjan, Kosovo.
1. Explore the Monastery – The Church of St. Nicholas is a Serbian Orthodox monastery, and it is the oldest such monastery in Kosovo. The church was built in the 13th century, and it is a stunning example of medieval architecture. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds, which include a small chapel, a bell tower, and many other interesting features.
2. Visit the Icon Museum – The Church of St. Nicholas is home to an icon museum, which houses a collection of rare and valuable icons from the Byzantine period. The museum is open to the public, and visitors can view the icons and learn about the history of the church and the monastery.
3. Take a Guided Tour – Visitors to the Church of St. Nicholas can take a guided tour of the monastery, which includes a visit to the icon museum. The tour is conducted in both English and Serbian, and it is a great way to learn more about the history of the church and the monastery.
4. Attend a Service – The Church of St. Nicholas is an active church, and services are held regularly. Visitors can attend a service and experience the traditional Serbian Orthodox liturgy.
5. Shop for Souvenirs – The Church of St. Nicholas has a small shop selling souvenirs and religious items. Visitors can purchase items such as icons, books, jewelry, and other religious items.
6. Enjoy a Meal – The Church of St. Nicholas has a small cafe, which serves traditional Serbian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a meal in the cafe and sample some of the delicious local dishes.
7. Visit the Cemetery – The Church of St. Nicholas has a cemetery, which is the final resting place for many of the monks who lived and worked at the monastery. Visitors can pay their respects at the cemetery and learn more about the history of the monastery.
8. Attend an Event – The Church of St. Nicholas hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Visitors can attend concerts, lectures, and other events and learn more about the history and culture of the region.
9. Take a Hike – The Church of St. Nicholas is surrounded by nature, and visitors can take a hike through the surrounding forests and hills. The area is full of wildlife and stunning views, and it is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Kosovo.
10. Relax and Unwind – The Church of St. Nicholas is a peaceful and tranquil place, and visitors can take some time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the monastery and the surrounding area. Whether it's taking a stroll through the gardens or simply sitting and enjoying the views, visitors can find plenty of ways to unwind here.
The Church of St. Nicholas is a beautiful and historic destination, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting Kosovo. From exploring the monastery and attending services to taking a hike or enjoying a meal, there are plenty of activities to enjoy at the Church of St. Nicholas. So, make sure to add it to your list of must-see destinations when you visit the region.