A window to Skopje. Rising from the mountain Vodno, this precious stone from the middle age can offer you a magnificent view of the Macedonian capital. Church built in the 12th century, hidden in a monastery complex which is surrounded with high walls. The temple has survived the catastrophic earthquake and, with few upgrades in the 15th century, has managed to stand the test of time. Incredibly colorful frescoes depict the inner conditions and struggles of the characters, where renaissance elements from Byzantine art are also visible. Out of the many captivating compositions, one is particularly captivating. It is the composition “Lamentation of Christ” and the explicit pain on the face of Virgin Mary. According to many experts, this work marks the beginning of renaissance two centuries before the frescoes by Giotto – the artist whose works are thought to mark the beginning of renaissance.
