The Nikoljac Monastery (dedicated to Saint Nicholas) is located in Bijelo Polje, in the Nikoljac settlement, on the right bank of the Lim River. It is one of the most significant spiritual and cultural monuments of northern Montenegro.
Here are key historical and artistic facts about this monastery:
Origin and founders: The exact time of establishment is not fully clarified, but folklore and historical sources link it to Nemanjići (end of the 13th or beginning of the 14th century). It is believed to have been built on the foundations of an older sacred building.
Unique preservation: Unlike many other monasteries in Polimlje, which were repeatedly burned and razed to the ground during the Ottoman rule, Nikoljac managed to remain preserved throughout the centuries. That is why spiritual and cultural life was continuously taking place in it.
Scribal School and Treasury: The monastery was a famous center of literacy and scribal activity. Due to its preservation, Nikoljac today has one of the richest monastery treasuries and libraries in Montenegro, with extremely valuable manuscript and printed books (among which stands out the Gospel of Nicholas on parchment of considerable antiquity), precious icons and church apparitions made of silver and gold.
Painting and art: The church was richly painted with frescoes in the first half of the 17th century. The painting was done by famous painters of that era, among whom the most famous zographer is Radul. The church also has a luxurious wood-carved iconostasis with exceptional icons.
Architecture: The temple is a one-nave domed building, built of stone, with a simpler exterior that hides an extremely rich interior space.
Today's status: Nikoljac Monastery is an active city temple and the spiritual center of the people of Bjelopolje and the Diocese of Budimlja-Nikšić, where services are held regularly.
The temple celebration of the monastery is Nicholas Day (December 19), as well as the Feast of the Transfer of the Relics of Saint Nicholas (May 22).
