Not Siberia: Sveti Sava

This is the front of Svetis Sava, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Belgrade. If this church follows the same patterns as other churches I've been in, this will be covered by an ornate door and screen and people will be unable to see what is behind it.

One of my most favoritest things is also the most noticeable feature of Belgrade. You can see the Sveti Sava from practically any point in the city that is higher than street level. Some of you may remember that the Sveti Sava was the focus of our gingerbread house tribute way back in December. This past April, I finally got around to actually visiting this Belgrade landmark. Below are the photos (oddly bereft of any Connor posing) from that day.

For your reading enjoyment, though, a little background on Sveta Sava:

The side walk way was lined with booths selling all sorts of things.

They had traditional serbian shoes, hammocks, honey, and rakija

bottles adorned with saints.

What we affectionately refer to as "Sveti Sava" would actually be correctly referred to as Храм светог Саве, Hram svetog Save, or The Temple of Saint Sava. It is the largest Orthodox church building in the world. It is dedicated to Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Religion and a pretty important guy all around. The massive structure and planned ornate interior are funded entirely by donations and profits from the gift shop found inside. Construction of the church began in 1935 and has continued throughout the years, despite several hiatuses due to war and political unrest. Today, the church is mostly complete. Only the inner mosaics remain unfinished.

And now for the photos:

Fountain at the front.

Normally you aren't allowed to take photos inside the churches. This one is unfinished and therefore not under the same rules. Also, we stalked these other people taking photos so I assumed it was okay.