The monastery is the burial site of Patriarch Pavle, one of the most beloved figures in modern Serbian history.
King Peter I of Serbia, the first monarch of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, is interred within the monastery grounds.
The complex suffered significant damage during the Austro-Turkish wars, leading to multiple structural rebuilds.
The current church iconostasis dates back to the 19th century.
The monastery was originally located near the village of Rakovica, closer to the Petlovo Brdo area, before being relocated to its current site.
The grounds include a dedicated memorial museum documenting the life and work of Patriarch Pavle.
It is an active monastic center that produces its own agricultural goods and honey.
The monastery serves as the official residence for the Bishop of Srem when in Belgrade.
Rakovica Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox site located in the Rakovica district of Belgrade, first mentioned in 16th-century records. The complex serves as the final resting place of Patriarch Pavle, the 44th Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church, whose grave is a site of constant pilgrimage. The main church is dedicated to the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel. The architecture reflects the influence of the Morava school style, though the structure has undergone numerous reconstructions following historical destruction. The grounds feature meticulously maintained gardens, fruit orchards, and residential quarters for the monastic community. It remains an active religious site with a functioning brotherhood. The monastery also houses an icon of the Mother of God, which is historically significant to the local community. Visitors can explore the serene courtyard and the surrounding natural park environment.
The path leading from the main gate looking toward the front facade of the church.
Approach the grave of Patriarch Pavle with reverence, as this is an active site of pilgrimage for locals.
Walk through the rear gardens to experience the quieter, more secluded parts of the monastery complex.
Maintain a respectful distance from monastic residential areas which are private.
Attempting to photograph monks without permission or speaking loudly within the inner courtyard.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; women should wear a headscarf; maintain a quiet demeanor; photography inside the church is generally prohibited.
