Draganac Monastery

Draganac Monastery is first mentioned in history in 1381, in the Founding Charter of the Ravanica Monastery. It was established by Prince Lazar and named after his daughter Dragana. Most of what we know about Draganac Monastery’s history comes from the collective memory of the people, passed down through generations. The monastery is dedicated to the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel. Throughout Serbian history, this monastery has served as an educational center and a cradle of Serbian literacy, spreading Orthodox education far and wide. In 2011, Hegumen Ilarion was appointed as the head of the monastery. The monastery’s brotherhood consists of twelve members. The monks produce incense and wooden crosses, maintain a garden with livestock, and are very active in translating Orthodox texts into English. Within the monastery complex, there is a guesthouse with cells for visitors. Draganac Monastery belongs to the Raška-Prizren Diocese. In front of the monastery, there is a water spring known for its healing properties, surrounded by various legends. People have long believed in the power of this spring, often visiting the monastery seeking health and wellness. In the small village of Kosovo Pomoravlje lies the spiritual center of the Serbian people – Draganac Monastery. It is not only the spiritual foundation of life for the Serbs in this region but also a bastion of Serbian tradition and identity. The monastery has survived all social upheavals – wars, socialism, and the terror from Kosovo Albanians. The 14th-century monastery walls erase all social differences and the daily struggles faced by the Serbian people over recent decades, while simultaneously creating spiritual unity among Serbs. Orthodox Christians find solace here for their troubles and hardships, offering prayers for their well-being. Thanks to the efforts of Father Kiril and Hegumen Ilarion, the monastery has been renovated and now radiates new splendor, rooted in the long tradition of the Serbian Orthodox Church. If the past can be glimpsed through memory, then the future can be embraced with hope, faith, and foresight. As long as Draganac Monastery stands, the spirit of Serbian Orthodoxy in Kosovo Pomoravlje will endure. Through memory alone, the great contribution of Prince Lazar – not only on the battlefield but also in preserving the spiritual identity of the Serbian people – will continue to live on.