Plizio Visual Lab
Žitomislić Monastery
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Žitomislić Monastery is one of the most significant Serbian Orthodox monasteries in Herzegovina, located approximately 20 kilometers south of Mostar. It was founded in 1566 by the Miloradović-Hrabren noble family on the ruins of an older church. The monastery quickly evolved into a major spiritual and cultural center for the Orthodox population in the region. The architecture of the Church of the Annunciation follows the classical Herzegovinian style, featuring a single-nave plan and a square apse. Over the centuries, it housed a valuable library and a precious collection of icons. In June 1992, during the conflict, the entire complex was systematically demolished and leveled to the ground. Reconstruction efforts began in 2002, strictly adhering to the original architectural forms and materials. The monastery was reconsecrated in 2005 and today stands as a bustling monastic community and a monument to cultural endurance.
- Location: Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Nearby: Čapljina (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 2 | 6 | 10 | 15 | 19 | 22 | 23 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 131 | 129 | 115 | 87 | 77 | 69 | 42 | 43 | 97 | 118 | 152 | 147 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Žitomislić Monastery is an active Serbian Orthodox monastery in the Neretva valley. The monastery grounds and church are usually open to visitors, especially in the morning.
Typical hours
The monastery is typically open daily, but exact times depend on the service schedule. A late morning visit is usually possible without issues.
Photography
Photography outdoors is allowed, but usually not inside the church. Please avoid flash and loud conversations to not disturb the devotion.
Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for a walk around the monastery grounds. The beautiful valley location invites a short stroll.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby city of Mostar and its Old Bridge. Also recommended are Zavala Monastery and other Neretva valley sights.
Getting there
The monastery is located south of Mostar and is reachable by car via the main road. Parking spaces are directly in front of the monastery entrance.
Insider tip
Respect the dress code - covered shoulders and knees are mandatory. Small donations for candles or maintenance are very welcome.
Geography
Facts
- The monastery was founded in 1566 by the Miloradović family.
- It is situated on the left bank of the Neretva River.
- The entire complex was completely blown up in June 1992.
- Reconstruction using original materials began in 2002.
- The monastery was officially reconsecrated in May 2005.
- It houses a significant collection of 16th-century icons.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Žitomislić Monastery (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When was the Žitomislić Monastery originally founded?
It was built in 1566 and is one of the most important Orthodox monasteries in Herzegovina.
Was the monastery destroyed during the war?
Yes, it was completely destroyed in 1992 but faithfully rebuilt between 2003 and 2005.
Is there a museum at the monastery?
Yes, there is a museum featuring valuable 16th-century icons and religious relics.
Is it easy to reach from Mostar?
It is about 20 km south of Mostar on the main road towards the Adriatic, and is well signposted.
What do the monks produce there?
The monks grow grapes and olives, producing their own wine and olive oil for the monastery shop.
Žitomislić Monastery: where is it located?
Žitomislić Monastery is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Žitomislić Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Žitomislić Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
Žitomislić Monastery is one of the most significant Serbian Orthodox monasteries in Herzegovina, located approximately 20 kilometers south of Mostar.
Nearby cities
Lukavica
Lukavica is an administrative center in Republika Srpska, which forms a large part of East Sarajevo.
East Sarajevo
East Sarajevo is a city in Republika Srpska adjacent to the city of Sarajevo.
Briješće
Briješće is a settlement in the Novi Grad municipality, a suburb of the capital Sarajevo.
Ilidža
Ilidža is a municipality in the Sarajevo Canton and a major health resort.
Konjic
Konjic is located on the Neretva River, roughly halfway between Sarajevo and Mostar.
Foča
Foča is located in the east of the country at the confluence of the Drina and Ćehotina rivers.
Bileća
Bileća is located in eastern Herzegovina on the artificial Lake Bileća.
Kravica Waterfall
A spectacular natural phenomenon on the Trebižat River, often referred to as the 'Little Niagara' of Bosnia.
Ljubuški
Ljubuški is located in the heart of Herzegovina and is famous for the Kravica waterfalls.
Široki Brijeg
Široki Brijeg is the administrative center of the West Herzegovina Canton.
Kiseljak
Kiseljak is located in central Bosnia and is famous for its natural mineral water.
Fojnica
A charming spa town famous for its healing thermal springs and the historically significant Franciscan monastery.
Vogošća
Vogošća is a municipality north of Sarajevo and a key industrial suburb of the capital.
Čapljina
Čapljina is located in southern Herzegovina at the confluence of four rivers.
Tomislavgrad
Tomislavgrad is located in the southwest of the country on the Duvanjsko polje.
History & landmarks
Počitelj
Historic Ottoman-style village built into a limestone cliff overlooking the Neretva river.
Historic Village of Počitelj
Počitelj is a medieval and Ottoman urban settlement on the banks of the Neretva river.
Počitelj Fortress
This medieval and Ottoman fortress town is located on a slope overlooking the Neretva River.
Nature
More places
Sarajevo City Hall
Built in the Pseudo-Moorish style, the Vijećnica is one of the most magnificent buildings from the Austro-Hungarian period in Sarajevo.
Saint James Church
The central parish church of Međugorje and a world-famous Catholic pilgrimage site.
Aluminij Mostar
Aluminij Mostar is the most important industrial enterprise in the Herzegovina region and a significant exporter of raw aluminum.
Blagaj Fortress
Located above the Buna spring, Blagaj Fortress was once the seat of the Dukes of St.
Mogorjelo
Mogorjelo is a significant 4th-century Roman villa rustica.