The Orthodox Monastery of Ostrog is one of the most visited monasteries in the Balkans. It is visited by believers from all over the world, individually or in groups.
It is a confluence of all three confessions: Orthodox, Catholic and Muslim, as it is believed that the relics of St. Vasilije of Ostrog are miraculous. According to pilgrims’ testimonials, praying in front of these relics has helped them cure or lessen their life’s troubles.
Built high into the face of a mountain in central Montenegro, the Ostrog Monastery is situated near heaven. Depending on the weather and resulting cloud formations, the Serbian Orthodox monastery can be in or above the clouds. Regardless of the temporal conditions, it is a beautiful, sacred spot that is unequaled in importance for Montenegrins and Serbians. It is one of the most visited Orthodox sites in the world. And for good reason. The beauty that surrounds and encases Ostrog gives a foretaste of the beauty of heaven.
Ostrog is beautiful because of the monastery itself as well as the nature all around it. The two can’t be separated. The cliff with monastery structure is breath-taking. The views of the clouds all around are equally inspiring. The valley below with more mountains jutting up on the other side are gorgeous. It is a surreal place for spiritual reflection, solitude, and prayer.
The Ostrog Monastery is named after Vasilije (Vasiliye). He was the Metropolitan from Herzegovina in the 17th century. Following his death in 1671, a couple of cave churches were created. The frescoes on the walls are still faintly visible from this period.
Today, Saint Vasilije’s remains are in one of the cave churches. Here a priest stands as a prayerful sentinel while people of all religious faiths come to show respect. The Orthodox faithful cross themselves and kiss the blanket-wrapped bones of St. Vasilije. Known as the Saint of Miracles, St. Vasilije is also regarded by many as the patron Saint of Montenegro. Many come to Ostrog to pray and have others pray for their healing. It is not uncommon to see the sick, blind, and lame coming here hoping and praying for a miracle.
