Vally of the centuries Žiča and Studenica monasteries

Embark on a journey through time with our one-day tour exploring the Ibar Gorge, a region also known as the Valley of Ages or Valley of Lilacs. This scenic area stretches from the confluence of the Sitnica and Ibar rivers to where the Ibar meets the Western Morava. It is home to some of Serbia’s most renowned medieval monasteries, including Žiča and Studenica – significant symbols of the rise and strength of the Serbian medieval state.

Our journey starts at 08:00 AM from the parking lot at the Museum of Yugoslavia. We’ll travel via highway to Čačak, then continue towards Kraljevo, reaching our first stop, the Žiča Monastery. Known as “Sedmovrata Žiča” (Seven-gated Žiča) because a new gate was opened with each coronation of a Serbian king, this 13th-century monastery was the foundation of the first Serbian king, Stefan the First-Crowned. It has historically been the seat of the Serbian Orthodox Church and played a pivotal role in the spiritual and educational development of medieval Serbia.

At Žiča, you will see the impressive Raška style architecture and the Church of the Ascension, celebrated for its historical frescoes and the multiple restorations it has undergone over the centuries. The monastery walls bear charters that narrate its rich history and the legacy of its founders. Proclaimed a monument of exceptional importance in 1979, Žiča continues to be a beacon of Serbian heritage.

We then proceed to the Studenica Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its architectural significance and exquisite fresco paintings. The complex houses several sacred buildings, including the Church of the Virgin Mary, which initiated the Raška architectural style characterized by a blend of Romanesque, Byzantine, and Western influences. This site is especially famous for its frescoes, which represent the pinnacle of Serbian medieval art, including the iconic Crucifixion fresco, considered one of the greatest in European medieval art.

After we finish a visit to the Studenica monastery complex, we will have a fri time for lunch. Our suggestion this time will be the restaurant Kod Mira in Bogutovac. We will have the opportunity to taste delicious Serbian national food.

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Belgrade, reflecting on a day rich in history, art, and spiritual enlightenment. This tour not only revisits the architectural and religious landmarks of the Ibar Gorge but also connects you deeply with the soul of medieval Serbian culture. Join us to explore this profound region, where each stone tells a story of faith, royalty, and the enduring spirit of the Serbian people.