Kraljevo
Kraljevo (Serbian Cyrillic: Краљево) is a city located in Serbia at 43°44′N 20°40′E / 43.74°N 20.67°E, built beside the river Ibar, 7 km. W. of its confluence with the Serbian Morava; and in the midst of an upland valley, between the Kotlenik Mountains, on the north, and the Stolovi Mountains, on the south. Formerly known as Rudo Polje, Karanovac and Rankovicevo, Kraljevo received its present name, signifying "the King's Town," from King Milan (1868-1889), who also made it a bishopric, instead of Čačak, 35 km. W. by N.
In 2003 the city had population of 60.000 (municipality: 125.000). It is the administrative center of the Raska District of Serbia.
History and sights
By far its most interesting feature is the Coronation church belonging to Žiča monastery. Here six or seven kings are said to have been crowned. The church is Byzantine in style, and has been partially restored; but the main tower dates from the year 1210, when it was founded by St. Sava, the patron saint of Serbia.
The famous monastery of Studenica, 39 km. S. by W. of Kraljevo, stands high up among the south-western mountains, overlooking the Studenica, a tributary of the Ibar. It consists of a group of old-fashioned timber and plaster buildings, a tall belfry, and a diminutive church of white marble, founded in 1190 by King Stephen Nemanya, who himself turned monk and was canonized as St. Simeon. The carvings round the north, south and west doors have been partially defaced by the Turks. The inner walls are decorated with Byzantine frescoes, among which only a painting of the Last Supper, and the portraits of five saints, remain unrestored. The dome and narthex are modern additions. Besides the silver shrine of St. Simeon, many gold and silver ornaments, church vessels and old manuscripts, there are a set of vestments and a reliquary, believed by the monks to have been the property of St. Sava.
Famous people
NBA player Vlade Divac started his career in Kraljevo, while playing for "Sloga" basketball club he now donates to the club. Another NBA player, Nenad Krstic was born in Kraljevo, and played for "Masinac" basketball club from Kraljevo.
See also
External links
(Touristic Portal of Serbia]
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