Vranjina Monastery: An Inspiring Tale of Survival and Revival

After the Second World War, the monastery was abandoned and later burned down. Restoration of the church began in 1998, and today it stands as a testament to the resilience and renewal of the Vranjina Monastery. The walk uphill to the church offers spectacular views of the lake and delta, lined with green willows.

Private  boat tour to Monastery Vranjina

Join us on our private boat tour and experience the beauty and history of Vranjina Monastery and Lake Skadar. Our knowledgeable guide will share with you the fascinating stories and legends surrounding this ancient landmark. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the secrets of Vranjina Monastery and the natural wonders of Lake Skadar.

Monastery Vranjina is a historic site located on a small island of the same name in the middle of Lake Skadar, Montenegro. The island is part of the larger Vranjina archipelago, which comprises over a dozen small islands and islets.

The monastery was founded in the early 13th century, at a time when the region was ruled by the Nemanjić dynasty. The original complex consisted of three churches dedicated to St. Nicholas, St. Sava, and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The monastery was an important spiritual and cultural center for the Orthodox population of the region, and it played a significant role in the development of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

Throughout its history, the monastery suffered numerous attacks and destruction. It was first destroyed by the Ottoman Empire in the mid-16th century, and then again in the early 18th century. The monastery was rebuilt in the early 19th century and converted into a fortress, but was abandoned and destroyed once again in the mid-19th century.

During World War II, the monastery was used as a military hospital and was heavily damaged. After the war, the site was abandoned and fell into disrepair. It wasn’t until the late 1990s that the process of restoration began, which included the rebuilding of the church of St. Nicholas.

Today, visitors to Monastery Vranjina can admire the beautiful stone church, which is adorned with frescoes and an impressive Russian-made iconostasis. The church is surrounded by the remains of the monastery’s walls and other structures, which offer glimpses into the site’s rich history.

Monastery Vranjina is a popular destination for tourists who visit Lake Skadar, and it is considered one of the most significant cultural and historical landmarks in the region. Its eight centuries of destruction and restoration are a testament to the resilience of the people who have lived in this area over the centuries.