Hram Rodjenja Presvete Bogorodice - the most important information
The first church in Vrnjacka Banja was built in 1834 by Archpriest Hadzi Jefimije Popovic. Thus, this place forever received the title of the first church and the oldest building in Vrnjacka Banja. Even today, it enriches this space both physically and spiritually.
History of the temple
Since its construction in 1834, Hadzi Jefta has been building and maintaining the temple for 47 long years, taking care of it as an object and serving it as a sanctuary. Besides that, the temple was officially rebuilt twice, in 1836 and 1973. Hadzi Jefta is buried on the south side of the church, and the people of Vrnjačka Banja consider his legacy to be one of the most important proud gems of their homeland.
Significance of the temple
The temple is dedicated to the birth of Jesus ’mother Mary and celebrates this event 21/28. September. The birth scene made in mosaic decorates the very entrance to this temple. Besides the Birth of the Holy Mother of God, the church also celebrates the day of the holy martyrs Kirik and Julita on July 28, when you can join the liturgy of Vrnjacka Banja.
Symbolically first, this temple primarily celebrates birth and beginnings. Also, it remembers those who lost their lives in the wars. It preserves a memorial plaque built in honor of Serbian heroes who fell fighting for the freedom of their people.
What to see
Many still visit the old church in Vrnjacka Banja to express their gratitude in front of its monuments. Anyone who comes here can see:
- Mosaic above the entrance to the temple - depiction of the birth of the Most Holy Mother of God
- Memorial plaque for Serbian heroes - killed in the Balkan Wars and the First World War (from 1912 to 1918)
- Tombstone of Archpriest Hadzi Jefimije - builder and guardian of the temple
How to get to the temple
The temple is located on the hill Cajkino Brdo, one of the cultural and historical units of Vrnjacka Banja.
- By car: The temple can be reached by the dead-end street Omladinska staza which leads to Cajkino Brdo. It is very easy to get here by car because the hill is located near Vrnjacki Park and the spa center.
- By taxi: Profi Taxi - 063-618-090, 063-619-999, 065/81-99-999
Liturgy schedule
The Holy Liturgy is held every Sunday at 8 am.
Additional information
Dress code: it is recommended that you enter the church decently dressed in clothes that cover the shoulders and knees.
The surroundings
If you want to visit the place for the most diverse offer of attractions, then you should definitely visit Vrnjacka Banja. Near the oldest church of Vrnjacka Banja you can find sights and monuments that should not be missed:
- Vrnjacki Park
- Japanese garden
- Bridge Most ljubavi
- Spring Rimski izvor
- Castle Zamak Belimarkovic