Church of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel, Sarajevo
The Church of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel, also known as the Old Orthodox Church, is a Serbian Orthodox church in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. It was established in 1539. It was, however, built on older foundations.
The Old Church is listed National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina by KONS.
History
The earliest documented mention of the church dates back to 1539. However, it is widely believed that the church was constructed on the foundations of an even older Christian place of worship, possibly dating to the 5th or 6th century. The current structure was built during the Ottoman period, serving the Orthodox Christian population under Ottoman rule. Throughout its history, the church has endured multiple fires and reconstructions, with significant restorations occurring in the 18th century, notably in 1726, which have contributed to its present-day appearance.Architecture
The church exemplifies the Serbo-Byzantine architectural style, characterized by its stone construction and modest exterior. The building features a single nave with a semi-circular apse and a bell tower added during later renovations. The interior houses a richly decorated iconostasis and frescoes, showcasing the artistic traditions of the Orthodox Church.Museum
In 1889, the Museum of the Old Orthodox Church was established within the church complex, initiated by Jeftan Despić, a member of the prominent Despić family. The museum's collection comprises over 700 artifacts, including:- An extensive iconographic collection, considered among the most significant in the world.
- Liturgical objects crafted from precious metals.
- Ecclesiastical garments and textiles dating from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
- Ancient manuscripts and early printed books.
- Ethnographic items, antique weapons, and sculptural works.