In the small mountain village of Žminica, near Žabljak in northern Montenegro, stands the Church of St. George (Crkva Svetog Đorđa) — a humble yet striking chapel that reflects the soul of rural Montenegro and the living traditions of the Orthodox faith.
A Modern Temple in a Timeless Landscape
Although newly built, the church blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings of pine forests, mountain meadows, and the dramatic Durmitor landscape. Its traditional construction makes it especially unique:
- Roof of hand-cut wooden shingles, crafted in the old Montenegrin highland style.
- Interior wooden beams and carpentry, giving the small nave a warm, rustic atmosphere.
- Stone foundations and walls that anchor the chapel firmly in the landscape, making it appear as though it has always belonged to the village.
This harmony of wood and stone ties the church deeply to the history of Montenegro’s mountain architecture.
🔔 Subscribe to our 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐓𝐮𝐛𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 – / @discover-montenegro
Consecration in 2014
On July 19, 2014, the newly built church was solemnly consecrated by Metropolitan Amfilohije, together with Bishops Atanasije, Longin, and Joanikije. Hundreds of faithful from Žabljak, the Durmitor region, and abroad gathered for the occasion, which included a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and baptisms.
In his homily, Metropolitan Amfilohije described the temple as a witness to sacrificial love, reminding the faithful that everything eternal and steadfast in this world is built on Christ’s Golgotha and love. He emphasized the spiritual significance of St. George the Great Martyr, one of the most venerated saints of the Orthodox world, whose courage and martyrdom continue to inspire Christians across nations.
The consecration was also a moment of unity: benefactors, families, and the local community, especially the Bojović family and diaspora from Chicago, were recognized for their contributions to the building of the temple.
A Living Parish – Anniversary in 2021
Seven years later, on July 19, 2021, the village once again celebrated: the seventh anniversary of the church’s consecration. On that day, the Feast of Saint Sisoes the Great, the newly elected Bishop Metodije of Budimlja and Nikšić served the Divine Liturgy with clergy from Montenegro, Serbia, and Germany.
After the communion of the faithful, Bishop Metodije addressed the gathered people with a pastoral message, strengthening the community’s bond with their church. The celebration concluded with a traditional trpeza ljubavi (Agape Meal) in the nearby Ethno Village Žminica, prepared by the Bojović family.
Why Visit?
Though modest in size, the Church of St. George in Žminica carries a deep spiritual and cultural resonance. It is both a house of prayer for locals and a meaningful stop for travellers who wish to experience Montenegro beyond its well-known tourist spots.
For visitors, it is not only an example of Durmitor’s living Orthodox tradition, but also a reminder of how faith, sacrifice, and community shape Montenegro’s identity — even in its most remote mountain villages.
- 📍 Location: Žminica, near Žabljak, Durmitor region, Montenegro
- ⛪ Dedication: St. George the Great Martyr
- 🗓️ Consecrated: July 19, 2014
- 🙏 Feast day celebrations & gatherings: Every July
