22/05/2014
Veljusa Monastery, Macedonia
Just about 7 kilometres out of Strumica in a village named Veljusa where typical village life takes place a monastery upraises out of the surrounding houses. All you need to do while touring with us is to change the rural atmosphere, cross the gate of the monastery and enter a place of tranquility, humbleness and religion.
Built on a rocky plateau Veljusa Monastery (named by the village) is dedicated to The Holy Mother of God Eleusa founded in 11th century (year of 1080) by the monk Manuel. The monastery historical and cultural values are extraordinary as the story that lives within its walls.
In 1913 having decided to abandon the Veljusa Monastery and not willing to leave the holy place to be defiled, the monks set it on fire which resulted in damaged fresco paintings to a great extent. However, the monastery's original architecture has been well preserved and it represents a rare structure from the 11th Century in Macedonia.
Today the Veljusa monastery houses the monastic sisterhood of Strumica. There are auxiliary buildings on the premises including a clock tower, a bakery and a small chapel dedicated to Saint Paul the Apostle where tourists can enjoy in the tranquillity and serenity of the location.
Photo and photo description from: Macedonia Art & Architecture