Cathedral of Saint George, Novi Sad
Vojvodina
The Cathedral of Saint George, located in Novi Sad, Serbia, serves as the seat of the Serbian Orthodox Eparchy of Bačka. The current structure, completed in 1905, stands on the site of an earlier baroque church built in 1734 and destroyed in 1849 during regional conflicts. Architect Milan Michal Harminc designed the present-day building, which features a distinctive bell tower added during reconstruction. Inside, visitors can admire a richly decorated iconostasis with 33 icons, including masterpieces by the acclaimed academic painter Paja Jovanović, such as the throne icons of Saint Sava and the Virgin Mary. The walls are adorned with frescoes by Stevan Aleksić, and the stained-glass windows, crafted by Budapest artist Imre Zseller, depict saints and historical figures framed in Baroque ornamental decor. The church courtyard houses the Theophany Cross, an 18th-century rose marble monument and one of Novi Sad's oldest surviving artifacts. This cathedral is a foremost example of religious architecture in the city and holds significant spiritual and cultural importance for the Serbian Orthodox community.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the church's official website for current service times, as liturgies and prayers are held regularly. The best time to visit is outside major religious holidays to avoid crowds. Advance booking is not typically required for general visits, but guided tours may be available through local tourist services. Discounts or special access may be offered for groups or during religious events.
Interesting facts
- •The cathedral houses an iconostasis with 33 icons, including works by renowned painter Paja Jovanović, considered some of his finest ecclesiastical art.
- •The Theophany Cross in the courtyard is the oldest surviving monument in Novi Sad, dating back to the 18th century.
- •The stained-glass windows were created by artist Imre Zseller from Budapest in 1905, featuring saints and historical figures with Baroque decorative motifs.
History
The original church on this site was constructed in the early 18th century, with baroque style elements, and was completed in 1734 during the reign of Empress Maria Theresia.
It was destroyed in 1849 amidst the Revolutions in the Habsburg territories.
Reconstruction efforts began in 1851, with the current cathedral built between 1860 and 1880 and completed by 1905.
The rebuilding included the addition of a new tower with bells sourced from Budapest.
Over time, the cathedral has undergone renovations to preserve its architectural and artistic features, maintaining its role as a central religious institution in Novi Sad.
Place Guide
Iconostasis1905
A carved wooden structure featuring 33 icons, including throne icons of Saint Sava and the Virgin Mary painted by Paja Jovanović, showcasing some of his best ecclesiastical works.
Stained-Glass Windows1905
Installed in 1905, these windows depict saints and historical figures with traditional attributes, created by Budapest artist Imre Zseller in Baroque style.
Theophany Cross18th century
An 18th-century rose marble cross monument located in the cathedral's courtyard, originally placed elsewhere in Novi Sad and moved in 1956.
Contact
Phone: 021 529159
