Every day when I take the bus to work, I pass Theodore Dreiser street. And every time my eyes stop at a beautiful temple located in a spacious green park, I want to go out and visit it, but I'm usually in a hurry and always postpone it for another day.
On Saturday, the road took me there and I finally visited this place, not just looking at it through the window. And really, I can say that it is a hidden gem of this street - the temple of Saints Peter and Paul.
Located among tall trees and close to Prince Milos residence, this Orthodox temple was built in the 19th century as the endowment of Prince Milos Obrenovic. He was known for commissioning many temples and monastic buildings across Serbia and even beyond its borders. Yet this temple carries a particularly fascinating story tied to Milos's own life.
The priest told us an interesting story that was passed down from generation to generation, and it is not known if it is true, but it has certainly become a part of history and tradition.
According to tradition, Milos vowed to build this temple in gratitude for a miracle that saved him during the First Serbian uprising. Karadjordje, the leader of the uprising, saw the strategic value of Topcider in blocking supplies to the Ottoman fortress in Belgrade. Milos was supposed to guard the key roads, but he secretly negotiated with the Ottomans and allowed their forces to pass. When Karadjordje discovered this betrayal, he captured Milos and was ready to kill him, but then miraculously spared him and left him alive.
Legend has it that this was the only time Karadjordje drew his gun without pulling the trigger. Years later, when he came to power, Prince Milos fulfilled his vow and built this temple on the very spot where his life was spared.
When I stepped inside, the temple was very quiet and peaceful.
Traditional icons lined the walls, a sumptuous chandelier, incense lingered in the air, and on my visit everything was arranged for an upcoming baptism.
It is fascinating how this sacred place bridges history, miracle, and living tradition. In Topcider park, the temple stands as a monument of faith and symbol of survival, gratitude, and the power of mercy.
The temple has a spacious courtyard and horse chestnut trees that I love very much.
There is also a chapel where candles are lit.
As well as a souvenir shop where, when you look into it, you have the impression that it is someone's home.
And this yard has another hidden gem, which I will write about in the next post.
Thank you for reading and stay tuned. 😊
Jelena