Weekend Destination Suggestion: Raičica Monastery

Today, we’re taking you to the western part of North Macedonia, right by the shores of Lake Debar — a region we hope will gain more attention from domestic travelers, thanks to its unique history and the natural beauty it has to offer.

For those putting together their list of spring destinations, it might be time to add a visit to the Raichica Monastery, located in the village of Rajchica near Debar. This beautiful monastery, offering a stunning view of the lake, has been declared a cultural monument of North Macedonia.

Фото: Andon Taskosjki

The monastery is located just 2 kilometers from the center of Debar and is a women’s monastery that functions as a metochion (dependency) of the Bigorski Monastery.

It is believed to have been founded in the early 14th century as a branch of the Bigorski Monastery, although the officially accepted year of establishment is 1835 — during the time of the abbot of Bigorski, when construction of the monastery quarters and the church began.

Фото: Andon Taskosjki

What makes the monastery unique is the rare craft practiced by the sisterhood, which continues to this day. The main activity of the sisters is the making of episcopal mitres (the mitre is considered an angelic symbol). To date, they have crafted over 1,600 mitres, which serve as one of the monastery’s main sources of income. In addition to the mitres, the sisters also create many icons and incense, following the tradition of Mount Athos.

The village of Rajčica is located at an altitude of about 800 meters. The beautiful green forest surrounding the area will be another pleasant surprise for those of you who haven’t yet visited this part of Macedonia.

You can combine your visit to the Raichica Monastery with a trip to the thermal mineral baths in Banjishte, as well as a visit to the villages of Dolno and Gorno Melničani, where you can hear many interesting local stories.