Mlava gorge & green springs: monasteries Zaova and Gornjak

Eastern Serbia is a region where extraordinary natural beauties and numerous cultural and historical monuments converge. This area, blessed with the scenic Homolje Mountains and their highest peak, Veliki Štubej (940 m), is famed for its expansive forests and numerous caves. It is also home to several historical monasteries that reflect the deep spiritual heritage of the Serbian people. Among these is Zaova Monastery, perched on the slopes of the Homolje Mountains. According to legend, Zaova was constructed towards the end of the 14th century, although it only appears in written records starting in 1467. Its church, built in the Morava architectural style, is a single-naved edifice without a dome.

The tour also includes a visit to Gornjak Monastery, nestled at the entrance to Gornjačka Gorge and established by Prince Lazar. Constructed beneath a steep cliff above the Mlava River, the monastery appears even more mystical. This setting not only highlights its physical beauty but also enhances its historical gravity as a key spiritual center established during the tumultuous times of medieval Serbia.

Another significant highlight of this region is Krupajsko Spring, located near the village of Milanovac. This spring is part of a group of karst springs, characterized by water temperatures that range between 9-11°C. Krupajsko Spring is the source of the Krupaj River, which later joins the Mlava River as one of its tributaries. Initially flowing northward for about 130 meters, it then veers westward and, after 300 meters, merges into the Krupaj River. The former valley here has filled with water over time, forming a small lake about 40 meters long and 17 meters wide, with water clarity ranging from 1 to 5-6 meters deep.

Not far from Krupajsko Spring, Vrelo Mlave Spring adds to the region’s charm. This spring emerges at the foot of the northern slopes of Mount Beljanica at an altitude of 314 meters. The surroundings of Vrelo Mlave are enhanced by a well-maintained coniferous forest that descends right to the water’s edge, giving the spring its distinct dark green hue. The transparency of its waters and the serene environment make Vrelo Mlave a picturesque spot, reflecting the natural beauty of Eastern Serbia.

During the tour, we will also explore the historical narratives of these sites, particularly focusing on the monastic life and architectural heritage they preserve. Each monastery tells a story of the region’s past, from the spiritual practices of the monks to the architectural styles that evolved over centuries. The monasteries of Zaova and Gornjak, alongside Krupajsko and Vrelo Mlave Springs, are not just places of natural beauty but also sites of profound historical significance.

Our journey begins with a departure from Belgrade, traveling by highway to Požarevac, then continuing to the hill where Zaova Monastery stands. The monastic visit provides a reflective backdrop against which we will explore the region’s spiritual history before moving on to the natural splendors of Krupajsko Spring and Vrelo Mlave. The day promises a comprehensive insight into the cultural and natural heritage of Eastern Serbia, culminating in a scenic and enlightening experience that spans centuries of history and breathtaking landscapes.

This Eastern Serbia tour, blending the tranquility of nature with the richness of history, offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the legacy of Serbia’s religious, cultural, and natural elements. From the serene settings of its ancient monasteries to the vibrant springs that burst forth from its ground, the journey through Eastern Serbia is a passage through time, offering insights into the serene yet spirited life that has flourished in this region across millennia.