St. Naum Monastery
Southwestern Region
The Monastery of Saint Naum is a significant Macedonian Orthodox religious site located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, about 29 kilometers south of the city of Ohrid in North Macedonia. Founded in 905 by Saint Naum of Ohrid, the monastery is named after this medieval Bulgarian writer, enlightener, and saint who was also buried there. The complex is renowned for its beautiful architecture, serene lakeside setting, and its role as a spiritual and cultural center through centuries. Since the 16th century, the monastery hosted a Greek school and maintained close ties with the Moscopole printing house, reflecting its historical importance in education and culture. The site is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its religious heritage and scenic surroundings. The monastery also inspired literary works, including a chapter in Rebecca West's "Black Lamb and Grey Falcon."
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit the monastery during spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Purchasing tickets in advance can help avoid waiting times. Modest dress is recommended when entering the church. The site offers discounts for students and seniors. Guided tours are available to enrich the experience with historical and cultural context.
Interesting facts
- •Saint Naum, the monastery's founder, was one of the earliest Bulgarian saints and an influential medieval writer and enlightener.
- •The monastery hosted a Greek school since the 16th century, highlighting its educational importance.
- •The area belonged to Albania from 1912 until 1925 before becoming part of Yugoslavia, reflecting complex regional history.
- •Rebecca West dedicated a chapter of her travelogue "Black Lamb and Grey Falcon" to her visit to the monastery in 1937.
History
The Monastery of Saint Naum was established in 905 by Saint Naum of Ohrid, who was later canonized as one of the first Bulgarian saints and buried on site.
From the 16th century, the monastery functioned as a center of education, hosting a Greek school.
It had cultural connections with the Moscopole printing house, a notable intellectual center in the region.
The territory where the monastery is located was part of Albania from 1912 until 1925, when it was transferred to the Kingdom of Yugoslavia following diplomatic negotiations.
Place Guide
Main Church10th century
The central church of the monastery where Saint Naum is buried, featuring traditional Macedonian Orthodox architecture and frescoes.
Monastery Grounds and Lakeside
The peaceful grounds offer scenic views of Lake Ohrid and include paths that lead to natural springs and small chapels.
Greek School Building16th century
Historical building where a Greek school operated since the 16th century, illustrating the monastery's role in education.
