St. Sava Temple
Beograd
The Church of Saint Sava, located on the Vračar plateau in Belgrade, Serbia, is the largest Serbian Orthodox church and one of the largest Eastern Orthodox churches globally. Its architectural design is inspired by the famous Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, featuring a massive dome that dominates Belgrade's skyline. Dedicated to Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church and a key figure in Serbian history, the church stands on a symbolic site associated with the burning of Saint Sava's relics by Ottoman authorities in the late 16th century. Construction began in 1935 but was interrupted by World War II and the communist regime, which halted work until the 1980s. The dome, weighing 4,000 tonnes, was successfully lifted into place in 1989, marking a significant engineering achievement. The church's interior is richly decorated with mosaics, including a central dome mosaic completed by the Russian Academy of Arts between 2016 and 2020. The church serves not only as a religious center but also as a cultural and historical monument, symbolizing Serbian identity and resilience. Visitors can access a gallery around the dome offering panoramic views of Belgrade. The surrounding Vračar plateau, declared a cultural-historical monument in 2021, enhances the site's significance as a memorial and architectural landmark.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit outside major religious holidays to avoid large crowds. The church offers guided tours and a lift to the dome gallery for panoramic city views once interior works are complete. Purchasing tickets or joining tours in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. Check the official website for current schedules of services and special events.
Interesting facts
- •The church is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and the largest in Serbia.
- •Its design is inspired by the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, featuring a massive dome weighing 4,000 tonnes.
- •The Vračar plateau surrounding the church was declared a cultural-historical monument in 2021.
- •The church's interior mosaics were created by the Russian Academy of Arts between 2016 and 2020.
- •The church stands at 134 meters above sea level, providing panoramic views of Belgrade from its dome gallery.
History
The idea to build the Church of Saint Sava dates back to the early 20th century, with the foundation stone laid in 1935.
The location was chosen for its symbolic importance, marking the site where Saint Sava's relics were burned by the Ottomans in 1595.
Construction was interrupted during World War II and further delayed by the communist authorities who forbade continuation.
Work resumed in 1984, and in 1989, the massive dome was raised into place.
The exterior was completed by 2004, with interior decoration continuing into the 21st century, including extensive mosaic work.
The church has since become a symbol of national and religious identity in Serbia.
Place Guide
Main Dome Gallery
A publicly accessible gallery encircling the massive dome, offering visitors panoramic views across Belgrade and beyond. A lift will be installed to facilitate access after interior works are finished.
Crypt of the Patriarchs21st century
Located beneath the church, this crypt serves as the burial place for Serbian patriarchs and is part of the spiritual heart of the church complex.
Mosaic Decoration2016-2020
The church's interior is adorned with extensive golden mosaics, including a central dome mosaic completed by the Russian Academy of Arts between 2016 and 2020, enhancing its spiritual and artistic atmosphere.
Contact
Phone: 011 2432585
