Ostrog Monastery: 10 Things to Do in Montenegro’s Most Sacred Site
Located in the heart of Montenegro, the Ostrog Monastery is one of the most sacred sites in the region. The monastery was founded in the 17th century by the beloved Saint Basil of Ostrog, who is said to have performed miracles and helped many of the poor and sick. Today, the monastery is a popular pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Whether you’re a religious person or just looking to explore a unique piece of history, here are 10 things to do at the Ostrog Monastery.
1. Explore the Monastery Complex: The Ostrog Monastery complex consists of two parts: the Upper Monastery and the Lower Monastery. The Upper Monastery is located high up on the cliffs of Ostrog, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Lower Monastery is located in the valley below. Both are accessible by car and offer plenty to explore, including beautiful churches, chapels, and other religious buildings.
2. Attend a Service: The Ostrog Monastery is an active religious site, and visitors are welcome to attend services. Services are held daily and are in the Eastern Orthodox tradition.
3. Visit the Iconostasis: The Iconostasis is a wall of icons that separates the altar from the rest of the church. It is a popular pilgrimage site, as it is believed to contain the relics of Saint Basil.
4. Explore the Cave: The cave of Ostrog is located in the Upper Monastery. It is said that Saint Basil spent a lot of time in the cave, and it is believed to be a source of healing and spiritual power.
5. Visit the Museum: The Ostrog Monastery Museum is located in the Lower Monastery. It houses a collection of religious artifacts, including icons, manuscripts, and other objects related to the history of the monastery.
6. Climb the Staircase: The staircase to the Upper Monastery is over 500 steps and is a popular pilgrimage site. The climb is said to be a test of faith and can be quite challenging.
7. Take a Tour: The monastery offers guided tours in several languages, including English, Russian, and Serbian. The tour provides an in-depth look at the history of the monastery and its significance to the Orthodox faith.
8. See the Frescoes: The walls of the monastery are decorated with beautiful frescoes, depicting scenes from the Bible and the life of Saint Basil.
9. Attend a Concert: The Ostrog Monastery hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, featuring traditional music from the region.
10. Shop at the Souvenir Shop: The souvenir shop at the monastery sells a variety of religious items, including icons, books, and other religious artifacts.
No matter what your faith or beliefs, a visit to the Ostrog Monastery is sure to be a memorable experience. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance, it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Montenegro.