Beška Monastery

Beška Monastery is an Orthodox sanctuary on an island in Lake Skadar with two churches built in different periods. The Church of Saint George and the Church of Saint Mary form together a religious complex rising from the water.

The Church of Saint George was founded in the late 14th century by Đurađ II Balšić and marks the beginning of the monastery. The Church of Saint Mary followed about two generations later and expanded the spiritual site.

The monastery is connected to the veneration of Jelena Balšić, a ruler known for her devotion whose remains rest here. Visitors can sense a place shaped by female leadership and spiritual commitment.

The monastery is reachable only by boat from the mainland, requiring a journey across the lake waters. A dock is located near Bar on the shore from where boats depart to the sanctuary.

The monastery preserves the Goricki Zbornik, a handwritten guidance book created specifically for this place. This manuscript is a rare example of personalized spiritual guides made for individual monasteries.

Location: Principality of Zeta

Inception: 15 century

Website: http://manastirbeska.com

GPS coordinates: 42.16472,19.22944

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:45