A monument to the first Serbian Archbishop, founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church, education, and spirituality was ceremonially unveiled in Kruševac on Saint Sava Day, in the square that bears his name.
The ceremony was attended by His Eminence Archbishop and Metropolitan Mr. David, the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Serbia Bratislav Gašić, the Mayor of Kruševac Ivan Manojlović, representatives of the Church, state institutions, local authorities, as well as numerous citizens of Kruševac and the Rasina District.
The monument to Saint Sava is a gift from the Foundation “For Serbian People and the State” to the city of Kruševac, its citizens, the Rasina District, and the Republic of Serbia , a lasting expression of respect for the values of Philosophy of Saint Sava and the spiritual foundations of the Serbian people.
Addressing those present, the Director of the Foundation “For Serbian People and the State,” Ms Ljubica Bertović, emphasized that Saint Sava is not merely a historical figure, but a permanent guide for the Serbian people ; a symbol of unity, peace, knowledge, and responsibility.
“The path of Philosophy of Saint Sava represents the foundation of Serbian spirituality, culture, and state-building thought, and obliges us to preserve the national identity and values that connect the past, present, and future. May this monument serve as a reminder that without Saint Sava’s philosophy , there is no Serbian national identity; that without spiritual foundations there can be no lasting state; and that without knowledge, faith, and unity there is no future,” Ljubica emphasized.
Through this act, the Foundation “For Serbian People and the State” reaffirms its commitment to preserving cultural, historical, and spiritual heritage, as well as supporting projects that strengthen national awareness and unity. It was particularly noted that Kruševac, as a city deeply rooted in Serbian history and statehood, represents a natural place for the erection of a monument to Saint Sava.
“The figure of Saint Sava symbolizes his role as an educator, lawgiver, and founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church. His calm posture and serious facial expression emphasize the spiritual greatness and enduring significance of Saint Sava for Serbian history, Orthodoxy, and culture,” stated academic sculptor Jelena Atanasković, the author and conceptual creator of the monument. The monument is cast in bronze and stands 2.25 meters high.
The unveiling of the monument on Saint Sava Day symbolically marked the enduring connection of the city of Kruševac with the path of Philosophy of Saint Sava, as well as the commitment to preserve and pass on the values established by Saint Sava to future generations.
