Ostrog Monastery

This monastery was founded int eh 17th century by St Vasili. It is built into a natural cavity of the side of the mountain. The building is 5 stories high and is dominated by the bell tower. For 3 centuries this is the most visited site of pilgrimage in Montenegro. The frescos inside are beautiful and there are several mosaics that are beautiful as well.

No pictures are allowed inside the actual monastery. Upon entering, you go into a small room where there are the remains of St. Vacili. Most people bow before them and kiss the casket. There is also a priest there that will pray with you if needed. Most people also leave the room backwards and cross themselves as they leave. Throughout the monastery, there are frescos and mosaics that people touch and kiss. Also, there are lots of places where you will see money and bracelets tossed on ledges or stuck in the cracks of the rock walls along with prayer requests.

This photo was taken at the candle room in the building beside the monastery. When we walked into the room, the heat from the candles was oppressive. There were children, families, old and young people lighting candles in hope of a miracle.

As we were leaving, we commented on the feeling of spiritual opression and the sadness that we felt for the people that were placing their hope and trust in something other than the true and living Lord.