Church of Saint Sava

The Church of Saint Sava is a large Serbian Orthodox cathedral on the Vračar plateau in Belgrade, dedicated to Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church. It is one of the largest Orthodox church buildings in the world and a dominant landmark on Belgrade’s skyline.

The church features a monumental central dome and classical-Byzantine architectural forms; its interior decoration includes extensive mosaic work that has been completed in stages into the 21st century. An underground crypt houses exhibition space and is open to visitors as part of the complex.

The project began with a foundation ceremony in 1935 and progressed through interrupted phases of construction across the 20th century, with major exterior works completed in recent decades. Interior works, including mosaics and decorative finishes, have continued into the 21st century.

The cathedral sits on the Vračar plateau in central Belgrade, within walking distance of the city centre and public transport links. The surrounding open plateau offers clear views over downtown Belgrade.

• Construction history: Construction began with a foundation ceremony in 1935 and the site saw several long phases of building and conservation; major exterior work was completed in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
• Viewing tip: The plateau on which it stands provides one of the best panoramic views of central Belgrade; early morning or late afternoon light is best for exterior photography.

What to See #

• Main church and dome: The huge main domed cathedral that dominates the Vračar plateau is one of the largest Orthodox church buildings in the world and is visible across Belgrade.
• Underground crypt and exhibition space: An extensive crypt beneath the church contains exhibition space and is often used for displays about church history and liturgical art.