Zavala Monastery, Ravno, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Zavala Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox monastery located in the village of Zavala on the southwestern edge of Popovo Polje, in Ravno. The monastery is dedicated to the Presentation of Mary. The northern wall of the monastery's church is situated within a cave. This monastery is also known as a place where Basil of Ostrog entered into monasticism.

Along with Žitomislić and Tvrdoš, Zavala is one of the most important monasteries in East Herzegovina. The first written record of the monastery dates back to sixteenth century. During the Second World War, the monastery suffered major damage, and in the Bosnian War it was further damaged and abandoned.

After the war the monastery was restored, and together with Zavala village with its old architecture and stone masonry, and Vjetrenica cave constitute cultural-historic, architectural and natural assemble, protected by KONS as an important national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Because of its importance as national heritage, as well as tourist and ambiental attraction, site is also placed on the UNESCO Tentative list for inscription into UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

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User Reviews

Milorad Šejat (14 months ago)
One of the oldest Serbian monasteries and it's built in roks and caves. A mustsee site.

Jelena Filipovic (2 years ago)
The monk working there is extremely unpleasant and working time of the monastery is very inconvenient (especially if you want to make the visit on the same trip with Vjetrenica cave - which would be natural, since they are very close one to another). The other nearby monasteries (e.g. Hercegovacka Gracanica or Tvrdos monastery) are much more beautiful in terms of frescoes and gardens too.

Zilia Kabachenko (3 years ago)
Serene and authentic! Very old monastery.

Vladimir (3 years ago)
Absolutely beautiful place. Everyone with the opportunity should experience it's serene and calming atmosphere. Even though its remote its quite well worth it

Ognjen Janjanin (3 years ago)
One of the most amazing places I have ever visited.

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