Hll. Apostel Peter und Paul, Serbian Orthodox church in Smiljan, Croatia.
Hll. Apostel Peter und Paul is a Serbian Orthodox church in rural Smiljan with white walls and architectural details typical of this tradition. The building features a traditional layout with a dome, situated among green hills and small settlements in the broader Lika region.
The building was constructed in 1765 and destroyed during World War II, then underwent major restoration starting in 1990. This reconstruction was part of broader renewal efforts across the region as communities worked to restore damaged structures from the war.
The church serves as a gathering place for the Serbian Orthodox community across the surrounding villages and remains the heart of religious practice in the Lika region. It continues to host traditional services and ceremonies that connect local residents to their faith and heritage.
The church sits near the Nikola Tesla Memorial Center, making it easy to visit both attractions together. It is accessed via rural roads, so suitable footwear and a car are practical for reaching this location.
Nikola Tesla's father, Milutin Tesla, served as a priest in this parish and lived in the adjacent rectory, which is now part of the Tesla museum. This personal connection links the church to one of the 20th century's greatest scientific minds.
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