10 Things to Do in St. Archangel Michael Monastery Strumica North Macedonia
Located in the Strumica Valley of North Macedonia, the St. Archangel Michael Monastery is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture and a sacred place for Orthodox Christians. Founded in the 9th century, the monastery has seen many changes over the centuries, but is still a vibrant religious center today. From its ancient frescoes to its stunning views of the surrounding countryside, there are plenty of things to see and do at the St. Archangel Michael Monastery. Here are 10 of the best.
1. Visit the Church of St. Archangel Michael: The main church of the monastery, the Church of St. Archangel Michael, is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. Built in the 9th century, the church features intricate frescoes and ornate carvings that are sure to take your breath away.
2. Take a Tour of the Monastery: The St. Archangel Michael Monastery offers guided tours of the entire complex, including the church, the refectory, and the surrounding grounds. This is a great way to learn more about the history of the monastery and to get an up-close look at its stunning architecture.
3. Explore the Frescoes: The Church of St. Archangel Michael is adorned with breathtaking frescoes that date back to the 9th century. The frescoes depict scenes from the Bible and are a testament to the skill of the artists who created them.
4. Visit the Iconostasis: The Iconostasis is a wall of icons that divides the main church from the altar. It is an impressive sight and a great way to learn more about the Orthodox faith.
5. Admire the Views: The St. Archangel Michael Monastery is perched atop a hill overlooking the Strumica Valley. From the monastery, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the nearby mountains.
6. Spend Time in the Refectory: The refectory is the room where the monks eat their meals. It is a peaceful place and a great spot to take a break from sightseeing.
7. Attend a Service: The St. Archangel Michael Monastery is a working monastery, and services are held regularly. Attending a service is a great way to experience the Orthodox faith in action.
8. Attend a Festival: The St. Archangel Michael Monastery hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including a spring festival and a winter festival. These festivals are a great way to experience the culture and traditions of the monastery.
9. Visit the Museum: The St. Archangel Michael Monastery has a small museum that houses artifacts from the monastery’s long history. The museum is a great place to learn more about the monastery and its past.
10. Go Hiking: The surrounding countryside is a great place for a hike. There are plenty of trails to explore, and the views from the hills are stunning.
Whether you’re interested in the architecture, the history, or the culture, there is something for everyone at the St. Archangel Michael Monastery. With its stunning frescoes, its peaceful refectory, and its stunning views, the monastery is sure to be a highlight of your trip to North Macedonia.