Poganovo Monastery
Pirotski okrug
Poganovo Monastery, dedicated to St. John the Theologian, is situated on the left bank of the Jerma River near the village of Poganovo in Serbia. Founded at the end of the 14th century (circa 1395) by Serbian nobleman Konstantin Dejanović Dragaš, the monastery is a significant cultural monument of great importance. It features Morava architectural style and is famous for its rich fresco program painted in 1499 by artists from northern Greece. The monastery remained relatively untouched through centuries due to its inaccessible location until the early 20th century. It houses valuable icons, including a double-sided icon depicting the Virgin Mary and St. John the Theologian, originally a gift from Empress Helena, wife of Byzantine Emperor Manuel II Palaiologos. Despite plundering during World War II, the monastery retains its spiritual and artistic heritage, attracting visitors interested in medieval Serbian Orthodox art and architecture.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan their visit during the warmer months for easier access, as the monastery is located in a canyon that was historically difficult to reach until 1927. Purchasing tickets or arranging visits in advance is recommended due to limited accessibility. Discounts may be available for groups or seniors. Photography inside the church may be restricted, so check locally.
Faits intéressants
- •The monastery's frescoes were painted in 1499 by artists from northern Greece.
- •A double-sided icon gifted by Empress Helena, wife of Byzantine Emperor Manuel II Palaiologos, was once housed here.
- •The monastery remained inaccessible until 1927 due to the impassable Jerma River canyon.
- •During World War II, Bulgarian forces plundered the monastery, taking valuable icons to Sofia.
- •The monastery is an important example of Morava architectural style.
Histoire
Poganovo Monastery was founded around 1395 by Serbian noble Konstantin Dejanović Dragaš and dedicated to St.
John the Theologian.
It was richly frescoed in 1499 by northern Greek artists.
The monastery's remote location in the Jerma River canyon helped it avoid destruction during various invasions.
In the 20th century, the area became more accessible with the construction of a narrow-gauge railway in 1927.
The monastery suffered plundering during World War II, with icons taken to Sofia.
Guide du lieu
Monastery Church1395 (foundation), 1499 (frescoes)
The main church features walls built from uncut stone and mortar, with upper parts made of finely worked stone blocks exhibiting shallow reliefs. Its roof was originally tiled but is now covered with sheet metal following restoration. The church is a prime example of Morava architectural style and houses significant frescoes from 1499.
Contact
Téléphone: 010 620002