Monastery of Visoki Dečani

The Monastery of Visoki Dečani, erected in the 13th century in the territory of Metohija between 1335 and 1350, represents a unique blend of early Raška and late Byzantine styles, earning the epithet “visoki” (meaning “high” or “tall”) as the largest medieval building in Serbia, standing 30 meters tall and measuring 36 meters in length. This monumental structure, with its main church dedicated to Christ Pantocrator, was built under the patronage of King Stefan Uroš III and Archbishop Danilo II, whose visionary ideas were embodied in the architecture of this edifice.

The monastery stands out for its grandeur and stylistic harmony, with the characteristic use of gray and red marble. The facade is adorned with rich reliefs and ornaments, while the interior is dominated by monumental frescoes depicting biblical scenes, saints, and angels. Particularly noteworthy is the fresco painting in the main church, the work of masters from the Franciscan School, who painted its interior almost entirely.

Visoki Dečani is not only an architectural and artistic achievement but also a deeply rooted spiritual center, housing the relics of Saint King Stefan of Dečani, to whom the monastery is dedicated in honor of his sanctity and moral greatness. Throughout the centuries, this monastery has faced the challenges of time, including the period of Ottoman rule, yet it has managed to preserve its essential role as an expression of faith and culture.

As part of Serbia’s cultural heritage, the Monastery of Visoki Dečani was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2004, recognizing its exceptional importance on a global level. In collaboration with UNESCO, the restoration efforts of our team have been crucial for preserving this precious heritage, encompassing the comprehensive conservation and restoration of frescoes in the narthex of the Church of Christ Pantocrator, as well as frescoes in the chapel of the Church of Saint Nicholas located within this monumental complex.