A real winter day, it's cold outside, the wind is blowing, and a snowflake falls to the ground. I couldn't feel my fingers on my hands from the wind that cut through how cold it was. The temple is beautiful in the photos, but it's even more gorgeous in person, the clouds were still grey that day so it made for an interesting landscape.
When you approach that huge white building, instead of being scared by its size, you feel peace and tranquillity, the smell of wax coming from burning candles is in the air. The most noticeable part of the temple was the huge dome, which is located at a height of 79m.
The magnificent exterior of the Church of St. Sava
As I approached the Temple of Saint Sava, I felt a breathless sight unfold before my eyes. Its white facade, made of marble and granite, glistened in the daylight, while the huge domes rose towards the sky, giving an impression of majesty and spiritual peace.
The main dome, almost 80 meters high, dominates the panorama of Belgrade, while smaller domes line up around it, creating a perfect harmony of Orthodox architecture. A gilded cross stands proudly at the top, which symbolizes the faith and strength of the people. On all sides, the facade is decorated with semicircular windows and stone ornaments, which further contribute to the impressive appearance of the Temple.
A massive staircase leads to the main entrance, above which there are beautiful mosaics with figures of saints. Around the Temple, there is a spacious park with fountains and benches, where visitors can stop and enjoy the view of this monumental building. When night falls, floodlights illuminate the Temple, making it even more magical and mystical.
No matter how many times I visit it, I remain enchanted by its beauty every time. The Church of St. Sava is not just a religious building - it is a masterpiece of architecture that tells the story of the history, faith and perseverance of a people.
And the snowflake in my head is interested in the incredible interior of the Church of Saint Sava.
Let's go inside!
Magnificent Interior of the Church of St. Sava
As soon as I stepped into the interior of the Saint Sava Temple, I was overwhelmed by a feeling of peace and grandeur. The space is huge, and the high vaults and massive marble columns are complemented by sumptuous mosaics covering every Temple corner. My eyes are immediately drawn to the central dome, dominated by the figure of Christ Pantokrator, surrounded by angels and saints, rendered in gold and blue tones.
The walls of the Temple are covered with icons and frescoes depicting scenes from Christian history, while the floor reflects the light of huge crystal chandeliers, making the space even brighter and more imposing. The golden iconostasis and massive bronze gates decorated with reliefs leave a special impression.
The silence inside the Temple is filled only with the silent prayers of the faithful and the sound of footsteps echoing off the marble floor. The weight of spirituality and history is felt, as if every stone of this area carries the story of past centuries.
In the underground of the Temple, there is a crypt, another gem of this sanctuary. Its walls are covered with gold and blue mosaics, and the atmosphere is quiet and solemn. Patriarchs of the Serbian Orthodox Church are buried there, and special attention is drawn to the chapel dedicated to Saint Sav, decorated with rich frescoes that bring to life stories from his life.
Although I have already been here many times, every time I enter the Temple of Saint Sava, I feel the same - admiration, respect and spiritual peace. This place is not only an architectural wonder but a space where people connect with the past, tradition and faith.
Why is the icon baptized and kissed in the church?
If you have ever entered an Orthodox church, you must have noticed how believers approach the icons, cross themselves and then kiss them. This act may seem like a mere tradition to someone from the outside, but it actually carries a deep spiritual meaning and symbolism.
The icon is a window into the spiritual world
Icons in Orthodoxy are not ordinary religious symbols or works of art. They represent a "window" to the heavenly world, connecting the believer with God, saints and spiritual reality. By kissing an icon, we are not paying respect to an object made of wood and paint, but to whom it represents - be it Christ, the Virgin Mary or some saint.
A sign of respect and faith
By crossing ourselves and kissing the icon, we show our love and respect for God and the saints. It is an expression of gratitude, prayer and spiritual connection. Many believers pray silently before kissing the icon, asking for comfort, protection or blessing.
Order of respect
When we approach the icon, first we cross ourselves two or three times, then we kiss it (usually the saint's hand or feet are kissed, not the face, out of respect) and then we cross ourselves again. This act can be part of personal prayer or preparation for communion.
Peace of mind in a simple act
In the modern, busy world, we sometimes forget about simple moments of silence and spiritual connection. Approaching icons, the act of baptism and kissing remind us of our faith, that we are not alone and that there is something greater than every day worries.
Whether we are in church to light a candle, attend a liturgy or just pause for a moment, icons remind us of the timeless strength of faith and spiritual tradition that has lasted for centuries.
Lighting Candles in the Church – Symbol of Faith, Prayer and Respect
When leaving the church, you will often notice a place where candles are distributed. In Orthodox churches, candles are free, but there is a contribution box where everyone can leave as much as they want and can. This contribution is not mandatory but is a voluntary act of love and support for the church.
Why do we light candles in church?
Lighting candles has a deep spiritual meaning. The flame symbolizes faith, prayer and the light of Christ's teachings. When we light a candle, we do it with a certain intention - for the health and happiness of our loved ones, for peace of mind, for healing, or as a sign of memory for those who are no longer with us.
Where are candles lit for the living and where for the dead?
In Orthodox churches, there are two separate places for lighting candles:
🔸 Candles for the living are usually lit in a candlestick closer to the icon of Christ or the Virgin. These candles represent a prayer for health, happiness, peace and God's protection of our neighbours.
🔸 Candles for the deceased are lit in a special candlestick, which is usually located in a separate place, lower than the one for the living, symbolizing the calmness and tranquillity of the departed souls. These candles are a prayer that God will grant them eternal peace and the Kingdom of Heaven.
Small act, big symbolism
Lighting a candle in church is not just a custom, but an act of spiritual connection. At that moment, while the flame is slowly burning, we turn to God in our thoughts, give thanks, pray and hope. It is one of the simplest, but also the most sincere ways to express our faith and love - for God, for our neighbours and for those who have left us.
So, the next time you enter a church, stop for a moment, light a candle and say your prayer in silence. Because even the smallest flame can illuminate the heart and soul.