Stari Ras, Archaeological site in Novi Pazar, Serbia.
Stari Ras is a medieval fortress on Gradina hill with thick walls made from crushed stone and limestone mortar, reinforced by defensive towers. The complex also includes a cave church and the Pazarište settlement at the base of the hill.
The fortress served as the capital of the Serbian state in the early 12th century before falling under Bulgarian and Byzantine control. These shifts in power shaped the place's strategic importance for centuries.
The cave church below the fortress holds 13th-century frescoes and preserves memories of where the Vukan Gospel manuscript was created. This place blends religious devotion with artistic works carved into stone.
The site is reached by steep paths leading up the hill, where you can walk along the fortress remains. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and allow time for the climb.
The fortress has an irregular quadrangle shape with a footpath along its walls that Serbian rulers once used for military inspections. This patrol route is still partly visible today and offers insight into daily practices of medieval administration.
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