Gambia - The stone circles of Wassu
Foto: (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Kosovo - Decan Monastery is one of the most prominent monasteries in Kosovo and is located near the town of Decan. It was founded in the 14th century and has since been an important religious and cultural site. The monastery features impressive architecture and is surrounded by high walls and towers, giving it a distinctly medieval character. Inside the walls are various buildings and chapels, each with its own story and significance. One of the most striking features of the monastery is the beautiful frescoes that adorn the walls of the chapels and the main building. These frescoes, painted in the Byzantine style, represent the high level of artistic achievement in the region. However, the monastery has also endured a turbulent history. Over the centuries, it has been looted and damaged multiple times by various invaders and during different conflicts. Most notably, it suffered serious damage during the Kosovo War in 1999 at the hands of Serbian forces. After the war, the monastery was restored with financial support from international organizations and governments. Today, Decan Monastery serves as a significant religious center for the Serbian Orthodox Church and is a major tourist attraction in Kosovo. The monastery is also a symbol of the region’s cultural richness and diversity. It stands as an important monument of Kosovo’s cultural heritage and as an example of the rich history and culture of the Balkans. The monastery is a place of spiritual importance and a showcase of medieval art and architecture. It remains a key part of Kosovo’s history and continues to be a vital cultural symbol for both the region and the wider world.
Historical center of Prizren
Kosovo - The center of the old town of Prizren is around the Our Lady of Ljeviš Church and the Sinan Pasha Mosque. Behind them lies the Prizren Fortress on the hill. Behind the fortress, dark clouds are gathering. We quickly walk through the old town’s streets. ...
The Visoki Decani Monastery
Kosovo - Near Peja should lie the Visoki Decani Monastery. We expected to see signs for it when entering, but unfortunately not. We decided to ask. A man on the phone interrupted his conversation to help us. The monastery turned out to be near Decani, about fifteen ...