Ostrog Monastery
About
Ostrog Monastery, perched atop the sheer rock face of Ostroška Greda in Montenegro’s Danilovgrad municipality, is one of the Balkans’ most prominent pilgrimage destinations. Founded in the early 17th century by Metropolitan Vasilije Jovanović, the monastery was rebuilt after a fire between 1923 and 1926 while preserving two cave‑churches that house the relics of Saint Basil of Ostrog, interred here in 1671. Visitors take a 3‑kilometre barefoot pilgrimage path from the lower to the upper monastery, passing a vine that legends say has grown against the rock’s sheer wall – a local miracle. The upper monastery contains the Church of the Presentation of the Mother of God and the Church of the Holy Cross, while the lower monastery, built in 1824, contains the Church of the Holy Trinity and monk residences. The complex is accessible year‑round, drawing more than 100,000 pilgrims each year who come to pray, seek healing, and experience the site’s tranquil atmosphere. The dramatic rock setting, stretched frescoes, and the enduring vine make Ostrog a memorable spiritual and cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
Highlights
- Upper Monastery
- Lower Monastery
- Saint Basil’s Relics
- Vine on the Rock
- Scenic Pilgrimage Path
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn, before crowds and with mild weather.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours