Vally of the Lilac and Maglic fortress

We’ll journey through the Valley of Ages or Valley of Lilacs as it is affectionately known, and explore the historical depths of the Ibar and Raška river valley stretching from Kraljevo to Novi Pazar. This scenic corridor, named after the river Raška that flows into the Ibar, is where the medieval Serbian state of Raška was born, giving the area its historical name. The valley’s alternate name, Valley of Lilacs, originates from the reign of King Uroš I Nemanjić, who, legend has it, had lilacs planted along the valley to remind his future queen, Helen of Anjou, of her native Provence.

Our day trip begins in front of your accommodation at 08:00, taking the highway towards Čačak and continuing along the Ibar River valley to our first destination: the medieval fortress of Maglič. Perched above the Ibar Gorge, Maglič’s name, meaning “foggy” in Serbian, derives from the mists that often shroud the valley below. The fortress’s exact origins are unclear due to sparse historical records, but it undoubtedly served to control the vital trade route linking Kosovo Field and the Morava Valley.

Inside Maglič’s formidable walls, we’ll explore remains of a church dedicated to Saint George, barracks for soldiers, a water cistern, and the administrative center of the castle. A short hike up from the Ibar River provides stunning views from the ramparts over the gorge, enriching our understanding of this strategic site’s historical significance. Following our exploration of Maglič, we journey along the Ibar highway to Gradac Monastery, the endowment of Queen Helen of Anjou.

Gradac Monastery is a gem of Raška architectural school mixed with Gothic elements, originally built as Queen Helen’s burial church. Though her relics were lost to history due to frequent invasions, the church remains, reminiscent of Studenica Monastery but with distinctive Gothic features. Our tour continues to the town of Raška, named after the medieval Serbian state, where we will have an organized lunch at the Čakmara restaurant (optional) or some free time.

Our final stop is Nova Pavlica Monastery, built in the 14th century by the Musić brothers, known participants in the Battle of Kosovo. The monastery church, dedicated to the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, features a trikonchos layout typical of the Morava school of architecture that emerged during this period. It is believed that the Musić brothers and their mother, a nun named Theodosia, were buried here, linking the site directly to the broader narrative of Serbian medieval history.

As we return to Belgrade in the evening, reflect on the day spent traversing a region rich in history, spirituality, and cultural identity. This tour will illuminatee the grandeur of Serbia’s medieval past and connect you with the enduring spirit of its people and the natural beauty of its landscapes. Join us to discover the heart of medieval Serbia in the Valley of Lilacs, where history and legend intertwine.