Small Church of Saint Sava of 1935
Why is it significant?
Beside the colossal bulk of the great cathedral stands the Small Church of Saint Sava — Mala Svetosavska Crkva, an intimate and deeply atmospheric historic sanctuary.
Key Facts
| Place | Small Church of Saint Sava of 1935 |
|---|---|
| Address | Krušedolska 2, Belgrade, Serbia |
| Geo Coordinates | 44.79680, 20.46820 |
| Part of Walk | Vračar Plateau, Saint Sava Temple and Slavija Square: Crown of Belgrade |
| Generated | Generated |
Beside the colossal bulk of the great cathedral stands the Small Church of Saint Sava — Mala Svetosavska Crkva, an intimate and deeply atmospheric historic sanctuary. Erected in 1935 in a remarkable record time of just ninety days according to designs by Russian emigre architect Viktor Lukomsky, this church was built to replace a temporary chapel from 1895 and ensure that daily liturgical prayer continued uninterrupted on Vračar while the massive cathedral was under construction.
The single-domed church is built in the medieval Morava architectural style, characterized by decorative polychrome brickwork with alternating bands of red brick and pale mortar, graceful stone rosettes, and blind arcades. Inside, the hand-carved oak iconostasis was crafted by Russian emigre woodcarvers, featuring exquisite icons painted by master Vladimir Predojević.
Throughout the half-century of official communist state atheism, while construction on the grand temple was prohibited by the authorities, it was in this humble church that Serbian Patriarchs German and Pavle held steadfast vigil, praying daily for the resumption of the cathedral's construction. Belgraders hold an enduring affection for this church, choosing it for weddings and baptisms due to its warm, prayerful ambiance.
The contrast between this jewel-like historic chapel and the cyclopean marble cathedral rising directly behind it illustrates the miraculous persistence of Serbian faith through eras of trial and triumph. The warm scent of beeswax, the soft glow of oil lamps, and the chanting of the choir provide an intimate spiritual refuge on the hill. This jewel-like historic sanctuary offers a deeply personal and contemplative spiritual haven amidst the monumental scale of the surrounding plateau. This historic landmark stands as an enduring testament to the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Serbian capital. This historic landmark stands as an enduring testament to the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Serbian capital.
Walk west along Skerlićeva Street to the sleek modernist facade of the National Library of Serbia.