Svetilište Metođe

Shrine of Metodje - the most important information

The protected natural asset, Metodje, is located at an altitude of 1,450 meters and dates back to the 3rd century. It is dedicated to Saint Methodius, the great martyr, bishop of the city of Patras in Lycia. It is considered the most mystical place in Serbia, and it stretches to the right of the Brzecka River.

History of the Shrine of Metodje
The church that is located in the cave was built in Turkish times and on the cliff itself so that people could visit it, hiding from the Turks. Since 1504, the day dedicated to Saint Metodjije has been celebrated. That year, the Turks forced the miners to go down to the mine and dig, and when the storm started, the miners were killed. Since then, this day has been celebrated in order to remain in the memory forever.

What to see in the Shrine of Metodje?
For centuries, on this very place, on July 3, people gathered and prayed to God. Behind the church there is a spring of water, which has always been considered healing. On the wall you can see the fresco of St. Methodius, and on a piece of stone a picture of the Virgin with the little Christ. Not far from the church, you can see a geyser, dedicated to the despot Stefan Lazarevic, which was created several decades ago, with the same height and amount of water, during all these years. For all lovers of walking and visitors, there is a walking tour, medium difficulty with a climb, from 6 to 7 hours of walking.

How to get to the Shrine of Metodje?
You can reach Metodja on the old macadam road that starts with a green ramp and is located on the 14th kilometer of the road Brzece - Kopaonik. Cliffs and caves can be reached via hills and goat paths. It will take you about 45 minutes to walk to the cave and 20 minutes to the geyser.