Our Lady of Ljeviš, Medieval Orthodox church in Prizren, Kosovo.
Our Lady of Ljeviš is a medieval Orthodox church in Prizren with five domes arranged in a cross pattern. The central dome rises above four smaller ones positioned on a cruciform ground plan.
Serbian King Stefan Milutin commissioned the church between 1306 and 1309 on the foundations of an earlier Byzantine structure. That earlier site was called Metera Eleousa and formed the basis for the later building.
The interior walls display frescoes painted by Byzantine artists showing religious scenes and holy figures. These works shape the appearance of the church and tell stories from Christian tradition.
Visits require advance arrangements with local authorities, and photography permits must be obtained before entering. It's wise to plan ahead and arrange necessary permissions well in advance.
During Ottoman rule, the building served as a mosque called Cuma Cami and still carries inscriptions with verses by Persian poet Hafiz. These Arabic inscriptions testify to the long and layered history of the place.
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