In the Valley of Fallen Cemeteries
It's best to come to Samodreža when there are no students. There are two schools in the yard, an old one and a new one, so school hours or breaks are avoided. On the south side is a sports hall with a separate road and entrance. It is important to be as inconspicuous as possible. The plan is to first enter the temple through the small door on the south side, pray, light a candle, look, record, and after everything, depending on the number of people outside, leave and take photos on the way out and stay briefly.
TL;DR
- The Samodreža church is visited during off-school hours to avoid attention.
- The church is in a state of disrepair, with a destroyed western entrance and damage from fires and neglect.
- Legends connect the site to Marko Kraljević, Prince Lazar, and Miloš Obilić.
- The church was reconstructed in the early 20th century through a broad public effort, with notable architects and artists involved.
- The site bears marks of recent conflict, including inscriptions from the Kosovo Liberation Army (UÇK).
- The article describes the decay of the church's structure, including a collapsed altar vault and damaged crypt.
- The text touches upon the disappearance of families and people in the region during the communist era.
- The Samodreža valley is depicted as a place of lost heritage and lingering sorrow, despite its natural beauty.
- The article concludes with a reflection on the enduring pain and memory associated with the site, hoping for a future of peace and victory.