A Spiritual River in Belgrade

Belgrade is witnessing scenes that will likely be remembered for decades. The Serbian capital has been flooded with pilgrims to pay homage to one of Christianity's most revered relics: the Holy Belt of the Virgin Mary. Exclusive drone footage captured by our team over the Vračar district reveals a breathtaking spectacle. Kilometers of faithful flow toward the Temple of St Sava, creating a human river unlike anything seen in the modern history of the city.

As the relic prepares for its ceremonial return to Mount Athos, scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, June 6, the crowds have reached their peak. From a bird's-eye view, the scale of this spiritual awakening is clear. The most intense pressure was recorded this morning in Nebojšina Street, which has literally transformed into a living river of people. Our reporters walked the line on the ground while drones monitored the situation from above. At times, the queue seemed endless.

Peaceful Devotion

What stands out most is the extraordinary calm among the gathered crowd. There is no nervousness, tension, or pushing. Thousands of believers, including many young couples and parents with children, stand patiently side by side. They move in a slow, prayerful rhythm, aware that each step brings them closer to the relic. Some have waited in line for up to 15 hours.

The miraculous relic arrived in Belgrade on May 20 from the Vatopedi Monastery in Greece. Its symbolism for the Serbian people is immense. It was brought to Serbia exactly six centuries after Serbian ruler Prince Lazar gifted it to this Athonite monastery. Although initially planned to stay until May 29, unprecedented interest forced church authorities to extend its stay twice.

Historic Farewell

This historic event concludes on Saturday, June 6. Following the Divine Liturgy at the Temple of Saint Sava, which will be led by Patriarch Porfirije, the Holy Belt of the Theotokos will be ceremoniously escorted back to the Vatopedi Monastery. The gathering represents a rare moment of unity and faith, showcasing the deep spiritual roots of the region.