Gračanica Monastery

Gračanica Monastery was commissioned by King Stefan Milutin in 1321 as a royal endowment and spiritual center. Constructed on the ruins of a 6th-century early Christian basilica, the monastery reflects the Serbo-Byzantine style, characterized by its five-domed structure, harmonious proportions, and richly decorated interior.

The church is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a central feast in the Serbian Orthodox tradition. Its frescoes, painted shortly after construction, are among the finest examples of medieval Balkan art. They depict scenes from the New Testament, portraits of saints, and royal figures, including King Milutin and Queen Simonida.

Throughout history, Gračanica has served as a religious, cultural, and political hub. It was the seat of the Serbian Orthodox bishopric and played a key role in preserving ecclesiastical traditions during Ottoman rule. The monastery also hosted important figures such as Patriarch Makarije Sokolović, who helped revive the Serbian Patriarchate in the 16th century.

In 2004, Gračanica was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the “Medieval Monuments in Kosovo” group, recognized for its outstanding universal value. Despite regional tensions, the monastery remains active and protected, with regular liturgical services and monastic life continuing within its walls.

Today, Gračanica Monastery stands as a testament to Kosovo’s layered history, where faith, art, and architecture endure across centuries.