Đurđevi Stupovi Monastery (Berane)

The Đurđevi Stupovi Monastery, meaning "The Pillars of St. George," is a Serbian Orthodox monastery and one of the most significant medieval monuments in northeastern Montenegro. Located on a prominent hill overlooking the city of Berane, it was founded in 1213 by Stefan Prvoslav, the nephew of the founder of the Nemanjić dynasty, Stefan Nemanja. For centuries, it served as the seat of the Bishopric of Budimlja and has been a central pillar of spirituality, culture, and literacy in the region, especially during the challenging times of Ottoman rule. The monastery's church is a distinguished example of the Raška architectural school, which masterfully blends Byzantine interior design with Romanesque exterior elements. Its unique facade with two imposing towers and a single nave is characteristic of this style. Throughout its 800-year history, the monastery has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, standing today as a powerful symbol of endurance and faith. A visit to Đurđevi Stupovi offers a chance to connect with a place of deep historical importance and admire a masterpiece of Serbian medieval architecture that has watched over the Lim river valley for centuries.

  • The monastery has a very important history as the seat of a bishopric and a center of literacy during the Middle Ages.
  • Notice the architecture, which is a classic example of the Raška school, blending Western (Romanesque) and Eastern (Byzantine) styles.