St. Sava cathedral in Belgrade - the new Hagia Sophia? Talking to people on Forgiveness Sunday (March 18th 2024)

Belgrade

18.04.2024

You've probably heard of the outstanding Cathedral of St. Sava in the Serbian capital, Belgrade, designed and completed relatively recently, in 2004. In terms of grandeur, internal luxury, and space, the cathedral was intended to replace the Cathedral of St. Sophia in Istanbul, lost in the 15th century and turned into a mosque, ultimately elevating Serbia as one of the centers of world Orthodoxy. But is this how ordinary people see it? Today, on a significant holiday for Orthodox believers—Forgiveness Sunday before Easter—I decided to bring to public view the impressions of both Serbian parishioners and some foreign tourists about the cathedral, right within its majestic walls. The questions were:

1. How often do you visit this cathedral?

2. What does this cathedral mean to you (architecturally, culturally, religiously, spiritually)?

3. Do you think it could become the main Orthodox center in the world after the lost Hagia Sophia?

4. Are your children used to church? (For those with children)

Veroslav: One year to one year. We are not from Belgrade, but from Požerovac.

It represents Serbia’s history first and foremost. The church was built so that our people would have a place to gather and serve God and Saint Sava together.

Yes, I think it can be. Since they are children, they go to church; it is part of Serbian culture and mentality.

Drágana: Not very often, since we live in another part of Belgrade. But when we can, we come because this is, as you said, a masterpiece of Orthodox architecture. It was built where St. Sava’s relics were burned, giving it great significance. While Russia may have larger temples, for Serbia, a small country, this is a masterpiece decades in the making.

Religiously and spiritually, there are other remarkable churches in Belgrade, like the Cathedral Church near Kalemegdan, which held primacy before this temple. We are thrilled to be here during the major Orthodox holidays.

Foreign visitors may feel differently, likely because they haven’t seen Russian or Ukrainian churches. They are grand, often dark, awe-inspiring, but this cathedral has a gentle atmosphere, which may give outsiders a unique impression.

I don’t think it could be the main Orthodox temple globally; Russia and Ukraine still hold that status. But in the Balkans—Romania, Greece, Serbia—St. Sava could be considered the primary temple.

Marco, tourist from Estonia: The first impression is amazing, especially the ceilings. I expected it to be very old, but it’s surprisingly fresh and new.

Yes, as it was completed recently, it is considered one of the world’s most majestic examples of Orthodox architecture.

We haven’t seen Hagia Sophia, but its newness is both fascinating and disorienting. Frescoes and details can now be executed quickly, unlike in old times, so it feels less historically weighted. I need more time to fully appreciate it.

Petr: I visit a few times a month.

Architecturally, it is a national achievement, representing the largest Orthodox temple in the Balkans. Religiously, it embodies peace and faith. Spiritually, it gives a feeling of being at home, even when away. Culturally, it is beautiful and should be known by all Serbians, as a reminder to turn to God.

It could become a new center of Orthodoxy. Every detail is crafted with care, bringing one closer to God. Religion has long been part of life here; church traditions influence children from a young age, shaping their values and connection to faith.

German tourists: The cathedral is huge—no chairs—but really impressive. Some say it could be seen as a second Hagia Sophia.

That’s true, it resembles a mosque. We are not religious ourselves, but we study religions analytically and find this cathedral fascinating.

Aleksandar: Visiting weekly brings me peace. The cathedral embodies the spirit of Christianity in Serbia and connects people to God. Architecturally, it is recognized across Europe. It could indeed be compared to Hagia Sophia, though there’s much more to say.

Margaret: I don’t visit often because of distance and children. Spiritually, it’s a true temple for visitors. Architecturally, it is monumental. It could, in theory, replace Hagia Sophia in significance.

Anonymous woman: I visit occasionally. It makes sense architecturally and spiritually. During construction, the work reminded me of the Renaissance. Now, the finished cathedral is truly beautiful.

Spiritually, it brings calm. Though not a regular churchgoer, I feel connected to tradition and history. Icons and gold decoration are impressive, perhaps even surpassing Hagia Sophia. While the Orthodox world is diverse, it could attract believers and tourists alike, becoming a major Orthodox center.

The most pleasant part of these conversations was that Serbian parishioners thanked me for exploring such a topic. I aimed to convey their thoughts and feelings accurately, without distortion. In conclusion, it is for you to decide whether the grand St. Sava Cathedral will become a new Orthodox center or remain a monumental revival of traditional architecture, drawing tourists and pilgrims alike.

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References:

¹ City southeast of Belgrade

² Church of Arkhangel Mikhail near Kalemegdan, on the southern bank of the Danube

³ Serbian: "God, help me"