10 things to do in The Church of St. Varvara Gusinje Montenegro
The Church of St. Varvara Gusinje in Montenegro is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. Built in the 15th century, the church is located in the small town of Gusinje, which is situated in the northern region of Montenegro. The Church of St. Varvara is one of the most important religious sites in the country and is visited by thousands of tourists every year. Here are 10 things to do while visiting the Church of St. Varvara Gusinje:
1. Admire the Exterior: The Church of St. Varvara is an impressive example of Byzantine architecture. The church is made of stone and has two domes, a large bell tower, and an impressive entrance gate. The exterior of the church is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, making it a beautiful sight to behold.
2. Explore the Interior: The interior of the Church of St. Varvara is just as impressive as the exterior. Inside the church, you will find a large central nave, as well as several side chapels. The walls are adorned with colorful frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible, and the ceiling is painted with gold and blue stars.
3. Learn About the History: The Church of St. Varvara dates back to the 15th century, when it was built by the Serbs who had settled in the area. The church has been well-preserved over the centuries and is now a protected cultural monument.
4. Visit the Iconostasis: The Iconostasis is the wall of icons that separates the nave from the altar in an Orthodox church. The Iconostasis at the Church of St. Varvara is made of wood and is decorated with intricate carvings and paintings.
5. Attend a Service: The Church of St. Varvara is still an active place of worship and services are held every Sunday. Visitors are welcome to attend the services, which are conducted in the Old Slavonic language.
6. Explore the Crypt: The Church of St. Varvara has a crypt located beneath the main nave. The crypt houses the relics of St. Varvara, as well as several other saints.
7. Visit the Museum: The Church of St. Varvara has a small museum located in the bell tower. The museum contains a collection of artifacts and religious art from the 15th century.
8. Take a Tour: There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the Church of St. Varvara. These tours provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and architecture of the church.
9. Enjoy the View: The Church of St. Varvara is situated on a hilltop, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. From the church, you can see the Adriatic Sea and the mountains of Montenegro.
10. Buy Souvenirs: There are several shops located near the Church of St. Varvara where you can purchase souvenirs, such as religious icons and traditional Montenegrin crafts.
Visiting the Church of St. Varvara in Montenegro is a great way to experience the beauty and history of this ancient Byzantine church. Whether you are attending a service, admiring the architecture, or simply enjoying the view, there is something for everyone at the Church of St. Varvara.