10 things to do in Ostrog Monastery (Острог) Danilovgrad Montenegro
Ostrog Monastery (Острог) Danilovgrad Montenegro is a unique and awe-inspiring place to visit. Located in the beautiful and rugged mountains of Montenegro, it is home to one of the most important religious sites in the country. It is also a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities to explore and enjoy. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Ostrog Monastery.
1. Explore the Monastery: Ostrog Monastery is a remarkable site, built into the side of a cliff and overlooking the valley below. The monastery is made up of two parts, the Upper Monastery and Lower Monastery. The Upper Monastery is the most visited and contains the most important religious sites, including the Church of the Holy Cross, the Church of the Holy Mother of God, and the Church of St. Basil. The Lower Monastery is home to the tombs of the founder of the monastery, St. Basil of Ostrog, and his son St. Sava.
2. Visit the Icon Gallery: Located in the Upper Monastery, the Icon Gallery is home to a collection of over 400 icons, including some of the oldest and most valuable icons in the world. The icons are of religious figures, including Jesus, Mary, and the saints. The gallery also features some of the most famous works of art from the Byzantine era.
3. Take a Tour: There are several guided tours that can be taken of the monastery and its grounds. These tours provide an in-depth look at the history of the monastery and its significance in Montenegrin culture. Tours typically include visits to the Upper Monastery, the Lower Monastery, and the Icon Gallery.
4. Attend a Service: The monastery holds regular services, which are open to the public. These services are typically held in the Upper Monastery and feature a variety of hymns and readings.
5. Enjoy the View: The monastery is located in a stunning setting, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can take in the views from the terraces of the Upper Monastery, or take a hike to one of the nearby peaks.
6. Visit the Museum: The museum at the monastery is home to a collection of artifacts and artworks from the monastery's history. It is a great way to learn more about the history of the monastery and the surrounding area.
7. Shop at the Souvenir Shop: The souvenir shop at the monastery is a great place to pick up a souvenir or two. It sells a variety of items, including books, icons, jewelry, and other religious items.
8. Take a Hike: There are several hiking trails in the area, including one that leads to the peak of the Ostrog Mountain. The hike is not too strenuous and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
9. Have a Picnic: The grounds of the monastery are a great place to have a picnic. There are several tables and benches scattered around the grounds, and visitors can enjoy the stunning views while they eat.
10. Attend a Festival: The monastery hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Ostrog Monastery Festival, which takes place in May. The festival features music, dancing, and traditional food.
Ostrog Monastery is a truly remarkable place to visit. Whether you are looking for a religious experience, a chance to explore the history of the area, or just a chance to take in the stunning views, there is something for everyone at Ostrog Monastery.