Novi Sad, Serbia
Ready to stretch our legs after an hour in the car, we stopped to check out Krusedol Monastery. To describe where this is located is a mouthful. This Serbian Orthodox Monastery can be found on the Fruska Gora Mountain, province of Vojvodina, the Syrmia region in Northern Serbia. We passed flat areas of fertile agriculture land and moved into a more hilly area. Founded between 1509 and 1514, this is still an active church.
Around the grounds, there is much work to be done. We saw people raking, sweeping and general cleaning. This man caught my attention… he fits the image I’ve always had in my mind. Somehow the setting, the architecture and the robe reminds me of a romanticized period in history… but it is present day life for these residents. Quite beautiful…
Though of this monastery was destroyed by the Turks, incredible frescos from the 17th century remain. Reconstruction began almost immediately and is currently a working monastery… honey, rakija and other produce are grown and sold from the grounds.
Most of the architecture from years past have frescos painted directly on the walls. This monastery differs in that the walls are covered with framed artwork. Still ornate, the style is completely different. We look forward to returning and having more time to closely examine every inch of this church. There is so much history…
Upon entering every cathedral, church, monastery, my eyes start at the top… I focus immediately on the dome. Some are brightly ornate with shiny paint, mosaic, stained glass. This one is more subtle but equally powerful.
So much charm in this tiny town. With a population of slightly over 8,000, Sremski Karlovci holds great importance. Considered the seat of the Orthodox church, it was the political and cultural capital of Vojvodina after the May 3 liberation. My favorite thing about this area? It is the heart of wine country. Vineyards line the hills…
Karlovci Gymnasium is the oldest secondary school in Serbia. More like a college prep school, students who attend this school are ready to focus on a subject in depth upon graduation. For those who plan on working after high school, another local high school is a better choice.
On the left, is a photo of the Catholic Church. With very few Catholics left, the doors are rarely open. This is unusual in Serbia. All Churches we have visited have welcomed guests. Photo on the right is a building of great significance. The Karlovci Magistrate AKA Municipal Assembly is in the heart of the town. It was from this balcony that Serbia declared independence on May 3, 1848!
This was a treat! Through these green doors and down the yellow walled pathway, we entered my happy place. Notice the rails that run down the middle of the path. This was used to bring wine supplies in for processing. Podrum Bajilo is an adorable winery tucked away off a side street. So much charm in this little spot!
Always a sucker for underground tunnels, this one fit the bill. Rock lined walls filled with vats of wine! We were treated to a glass of Red Bermet. This sweet port-like wine was of high quality. We will return to taste the rest of their wines. They have both reds and whites.
Next stop… Petrovaradin Fortress. This was a giant “wow”… When we first arrived, I looked off to one side and said, “wow”. Our friend, Mihajlo let me know that I hadn’t even seen the “wow” yet… As we walked through the walls of this fortress, we noticed the locks. Often seen around the world, it was tempting to purchase a lock and place ours… but we didn’t. Next time?
Ok… I get it… here’s the “wow”! Strategically placed on the shores of the Danube River, the view was breathtaking! Driving up, you can’t tell that you are on the river’s edge. Once you turn the corner… there it is in all it’s glory!
Hate to do this but it was a very long day… I will finish with our time here at Petrovaradin Fortress… (including my failed selfie). Also, tomorrow will include the pedestrian area of Novi Sad, which I fell completely in love with! So… “Happy Election Day”. No matter who wins, remember we are Americans, we are friends/family and we won’t let an election come between us.
