Church of St. John the Baptist, Velika Plana
Podunavski okrug
The Church of St. John the Baptist is a Serbian Orthodox church located near Velika Plana, in the Podunavski district of Serbia. Constructed from 1932 to 1938, it was commissioned by the Teokarović family, notable industrialists of the region. Designed by the renowned Russian architect Grigoriy Samoylov, who also painted the iconostasis, the church harmoniously integrates with the natural surroundings of the Kukavica mountain slopes and the canyon of the Vučjanka river. The building is made from locally sourced high-quality stone and is considered one of the most significant examples of interwar church architecture in Serbia. The original frescoes, painted in Russian baroque style by Peter Sukhachev on marble plaster, have mostly deteriorated except for the patron fresco above the portal. A restoration and partial repainting of the frescoes was undertaken in 2013 by the Lazarus icon painting workshop using the secco technique. The church was consecrated on July 7, 1938, on the feast of St. John the Baptist, which is also the patron saint day of the nearby settlement. The consecration ceremony was attended by thousands, including royal representatives and prominent bishops, underscoring the church's cultural and spiritual importance.
Plan your trip to Serbia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit during early July to experience the church's patron feast day celebrations. Consider contacting the local parish ahead of your visit for guided tours or special events. Tickets may not be required, but donations are appreciated. The church is accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and scenic surroundings.
Interesting facts
- •The church was designed by Grigoriy Samoylov, a Russian architect and professor descended from a Cossack family who settled in the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes after the October Revolution.
- •The stone used for construction was quarried from the nearby Kukavica mountain, known for its exceptional quality.
- •The original frescoes were painted by Russian artist Peter Sukhachev in the Russian baroque style on marble plaster.
- •The church's consecration in 1938 was attended by around 20,000 people, including royal officials and prominent bishops.
- •Grigoriy Samoylov received the Order of St. Sava V Class for his architectural work on the church.
History
The church was built between 1932 and 1938 on the site of a medieval church destroyed during Ottoman rule, originally founded by Serbian heroes from the Turkish era, including Nikola Skobaljić.
The Teokarović family, prominent textile industrialists, funded the construction to revive the spiritual heritage of the site.
Consecrated in 1938 with a ceremony attended by 20,000 people, the church became a symbol of Serbian faith and resilience.
Architect Grigoriy Samoylov was honored with the Order of St.
Sava V Class for his work.
Over time, the original frescoes deteriorated and were partially restored in 2013.
Place Guide
Iconostasis1938
Painted by architect Grigoriy Samoylov himself, the iconostasis is a key artistic feature of the church, showcasing his signature on the northern and southern doors.
Frescoes1930s, restored 2013
Originally painted by Russian artist Peter Sukhachev in the Russian baroque style on marble plaster, most frescoes have deteriorated except the patron fresco above the portal. Restored partially in 2013 by the Lazarus icon painting workshop using the secco technique.
Contact
Phone: 026 530514
