Ostrog Monastery: one of the most important pilgrimage sites of Orthodox Christians

As part of our Adria region tour, our team wandered off toward Montenegro. At one point we stopped by the Ostrog on our way to Ulcinj and noticed a beautiful and unreal structure hiding in a cliff 900 meters above sea level.

While sitting in the restaurant of our hotel in Ostrog, which is at the perfect distance from the monastery, as I was enjoying my last bites, a thought crossed my mind. How did the priests, back in time, go down this path and carry food and other necessities to the top of Ostroška Greda and its Ostrog Monastery? 

We needed to test this out!

Ostrog, Photo: Adria.fun

Once we got in the car, and saw the first sign on the road (which by the way was already half up the hill), that said 5 kilometers away. Hmm…5 kilometers away and we are this high up the hill? There is no way they could do this every day…

About 3 kilometers from the Ostrog Monastery we parked the car and embarked on an adventure without a drop of water, in the middle of summer and heat waves. Not the smartest decision… However, I must say that I was a little surprised at how many people were going there as well… I mean I kinda expected it, but not as many… each putting a sacrifice of their own.

Ostrog Monastery, Photo: Adria.fun

There are several parking lots on the way to the Ostrog monastery, so you do get to choose where to start.  Don’t be discouraged, if you can’t walk this far, there is one last parking lot right in front of the monastery as well.

Ostrog Monastery, Photo: Adria.fun

Once we reached it, exploration began.. so here is what we found out on our tour.

Ostrog Monastery was founded in the 17th century by Vasilije, a Metropolitan Bishop of Herzegovina. He later became Saint Basil of Ostrog and is now one of the most venerated saints in the Serbian Orthodox Church. After his death, his body was kept preserved in a cave church within the monastery.

Although today’s look is not the same after being damaged by fire, the monastery still kept its original purpose and value to all the Orthodox Christians.

Separated into two parts, the upper church, which is the most visited part, is built into a natural cave in the rock. The lower church houses a small church, a museum, and accommodations for visitors.

Ostrog Monastery, Photo: Adria.fun

Ostrog Monastery welcomes over 100.000 people every year and besides religious purposes, provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding valley and the Montenegrin landscape that many want to enjoy. This monastery is also one of the most visited pilgrimages in the Balkan region and is of high importance to all the religions present.

Ostrog Monastery, Photo: Adria.fun

Many come here to pray for blessings, both Muslims, Christians, and Jews, so please do pay your highest respect once you arrive.