Belgrade recently hosted events commemorating the 850th anniversary of the birth of Saint Sava, the first Archbishop of the Serbian Orthodox Church and a pivotal figure in Serbia’s history. The events took place in the crypt of the Temple of Saint Sava in Vračar, where the scientific collection titled "Saint Sava 1175–2025" was presented, followed by the opening of the exhibition "The Temple of Saint Sava — From Idea to Dome," as reported by the Serbian Church's website.
The publication, prepared by the Museum of the Serbian Orthodox Church, features contributions from 13 scholars including historians, theologians, philologists, and art historians. It reflects the results of years of academic research into the life and legacy of Saint Sava, offering new perspectives on his roles as a church leader, legislator, diplomat, and educator.
During the presentation, Serbian Patriarch Porfirije highlighted that the values rooted in the spiritual and societal legacy of Saint Sava serve as the foundation of Serbian national identity. He emphasized the symbolic importance of the Temple of Saint Sava, built on the site where his relics were burned, calling it "a sign of hope and continuity" in the nation's history.
Serbian Minister of Culture Nikola Selaković remarked that the legacy of Saint Sava remains relevant in contemporary society. He stated that the scientific collection illustrates how spiritual tradition extends beyond the past, continuing to influence the cultural and social life of the country.
On the same day, the parish house in Vračar hosted the exhibition "The Temple of Saint Sava — From Idea to Dome." This exhibit narrates the history of designing and constructing the largest Orthodox temple in the Balkans, covering the initial concepts from the late 19th century to the completion of the dome in the late 20th century. Visitors were presented with archival documents, blueprints, and photographs showcasing the lengthy and complex journey of the temple's construction.
Organizers reported that the launch of the collection and the exhibition are part of a broader program of anniversary events. The celebration will culminate in a major exhibition dedicated to Saint Sava, scheduled to open in May 2026 with the participation of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts.
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