The monastery was founded by Bishop Nikolaj Velimirović and his father Dragomir, serving originally as a parish church before becoming a monastery.
Bishop Nikolaj Velimirović, who died in 1956 in Pennsylvania, was canonized as a saint by the Serbian Orthodox Church in 2003.
The interior of the church is decorated with frescoes executed in the traditional Byzantine style.
The monastery complex was built entirely of stone, reflecting a revival of medieval architectural techniques.
It is often referred to as the 'Zaduzbina' (endowment) of the Velimirović family.
Lelić Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox monastery situated in the village of Lelić near Valjevo. The complex serves as the burial site of Bishop Nikolaj Velimirović, one of the most prominent theologians in Serbian history. Constructed in 1991, the church is built in the Morava architectural style with a prominent central dome. The site includes a museum dedicated to the life and works of Saint Nikolaj of Ohrid and Žiča. The monastery holds the relics of the saint, which were relocated here from the United States in 1991. The grounds feature a bell tower, a library, and a fountain. It functions as an active religious site managed by the Eparchy of Valjevo.
From the monastery courtyard, looking back toward the church facade to capture the interplay between the stone architecture and the surrounding forested hills.
Respect the silence of the monks and other pilgrims when walking the grounds.
Carry a light jacket as the mountainous terrain causes temperatures to drop, even in summer.
Visit the small museum shop to view authentic local monastic handicrafts.
Avoid taking photographs inside the church interior without first seeking permission from the monastic staff.
Visitors must dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees. Women should wear skirts or long trousers, and headscarves are recommended. Maintain a quiet demeanor while inside the church.
