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Ovcarsko-Kablarska
Gorge is situated in the central part of Serbia. It is a natural
sight of remarkable characteristics, the first class treasure, and it
is under protection of the state. Natural beauties of this region and
multitude of cultural-historical monuments make it very interesting for
visitors. The meanders of the river Zapadna Morava, infinite greenness
of the surrounding forests, monasteries, thermal water of Ovcar Spa, flora
and fauna, 2 artificial lakes which offer possibilities for recreational
tourism, constitute the tourist offer of this region. Mountains Ovcar
and Kablar are suitable for mountain climbing; there are 8 marked mountain
paths, so that they attract a large number of lovers of this sport. Numerous
artists will find their inspiration here, and all those who want to afford
themselves holiday and recovery will stay here. Ovcarsko-Kablarska Gorge
is recognized for its natural beauties as well as for its cultural-historical
monuments. The monasteries played an important role, not only in spiritual
sense, but also in development of the national conscience, in acquiring
knowledge and in teaching illiterates how to read and write, throughout
the history of Serbia and Serbian people who lived on this territory for
centuries. Monasteries of Ovcarsko-Kablarska Gorge (Serbian Holy Mountain)
represent the evidence of the past times and each of these monasteries
(there are 10 of them) has its own story related to the period of its
foundation and existence on this territory. The life of one nation, the
customs and historical events can be understood through the architecture,
iconostasis, preserved books and religious objects. Monastery Nikolje
(St. Nicholas) had a big scribe room in the past. The oldest, here preserved
book is Psalter from 1534. Monastery Vavedenje (Purification) has rare
old books among which there is Belgrade Quadri-gospel dating back from
1552. It was printed by Trajan Gundulic. Monastery Uspenije (Ascension),
located on Jovanje Hill, on the left bank of the Zapadna Morava had a
Tower in its churchyard. It served as defence from the enemies; it had
several floors and a basement. In the rooms of the Tower the religious
books were written and copied. There was a bell on its top which announced
the beginning of religious services, as well as the other announcements,
especially in case of danger. Monastery Sretenje (Visitation) has an inbuilt
iconostasis which can’t be seen in any other of the monasteries in the
gorge… |
