Perched high on a hill in the mountains of southwestern Serbia, Studenica monastery is a peaceful retreat, steeped in Serbian Orthodox cultural and religious heritage.

The House of Flowers and its accompanying museums dedicated to the memory of Josip Broz Tito offer visitors a glimpse into both the life and times of the man and his conflicted legacy.

The derelict complex was named Gamzigrad or “Slithertown” by the newcomers, for many snakes inhabited the ruins. The walls in the shape of an irregular quadrangle are guarded by 20 towers and two gates. The remaining walls and columns, as well as some marvelous mosaics, can be seen inside.

The monastery is situated at the very entrance of the impressivecanyon of the river Jerma that finds its way between Vlaška and Greben mountains.

In the magnificent setting found at the entrance to the Rugovo gorge and set against a background of the Prokletije Mountains with their many caves lies

The oldest frescoes, located in the nave and dating from 1273/4, are considered to be the peak not only of Serbian but of all European painting at the

St Sava had it painted in bright red, which was meant to symbolise that the Church was founded on the blood of its martyrs. When the structure was finished,

'The setting is spectacular, the line-up massive and the people completely inspiring. It's a truly special festival.'