Monastery of Žiča

The Monastery of Žiča, located near Kraljevo, represents not only spiritual and artistic but also historical and architectural treasure. Founded in the first half of the 13th century during the reign of Stefan the First-Crowned, this monastery witnessed the rule of different dynasties and played a key role in the development of the Serbian church and state. It was instrumental in the coronation of Serbian rulers, earning it the nickname “the Serbian Mount Athos.”

The architectural structure of Žiča combines elements of Romanesque and Byzantine styles, reflecting the cultural influences of that time. Some of the architectural and programmatic solutions of the fresco painting were attributed to Sava Nemanjić, the first Serbian archbishop. The church, dedicated to the Ascension of Christ, has a simple plan with three naves and a central dome, symbolizing the idea of the Trinity. The walls are built of stone and brick, while the façade, inspired by Mount Athos architecture, is painted red, with Romanesque arcades in marble along the roofline.

The frescoes inside the church are attributed to two different periods: one layer dates back to 1220, and the other, around a hundred years later, was created during the restoration commissioned by King Milutin. These frescoes reveal a rich array of Christian motifs and scenes from the Old and New Testaments. Over the centuries, Žiča has suffered various damages and changes, including bombings, wars, and natural disasters, leading to multiple renovations. However, despite this, it has retained its authenticity, as well as its historical and cultural value.

This monument of Serbian history, culture, and spirituality was declared a cultural monument of exceptional importance in 1947. UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage cultural property in 1986, acknowledging its universal value and significance for all humanity.

The conservation and restoration work carried out by our team of experts contributed to the preservation of this complex and included the conservation and restoration of the wall paintings in the exterior narthex, the courtyard of the tower of the Church of the Ascension of Christ, as well as conservation and restoration work on the landscaping of the courtyard and facade of the Church of the Savior.