Montenegro Looks to Renew Njegoš Chapel as Community Unites

The community of Niksic, Montenegro, gathered to celebrate the exhibition titled “One Hundred Years since the Restoration of Njegoš’s Vow Church on Lovćen.” The event highlighted the importance of renewing the chapel dedicated to the revered Montenegrin ruler and poet, Njegoš. Mayor Marko Kovačević emphasized that Njegoš’s image is central to Montenegrin identity, asserting that the nation can only be true to itself if it honors his last wishes.

Kovačević stated, “Our vow, which the late Metropolitan Amfilohije revived among our people, and which continues under the current leadership of Metropolitan Joanikije, is to restore the chapel on Lovćen so that the roof of our homeland may also be renewed.” He underscored the community’s commitment to respecting its most significant sacred sites, indicating that this restoration effort is both a cultural and national imperative.

During the opening of the exhibition at the Dvorac kralja Nikole, Metropolitan Joanikije spoke of the unification of the Montenegrin people as akin to the restoration of the chapel. He remarked, “As we celebrate this significant anniversary today, we foresee the renewal of the chapel on Lovćen to fulfill Njegoš’s mandate. We are aware that much needs to be done in the chapel’s restoration, and we will achieve the most through events like this—through culture and spirituality.”

The exhibition featured remarks from Vesna Todorović, the director of JU “Muzeji i galerije” Nikšić, and the exhibition’s author, Dusan Babac. Their insights underscored the exhibition’s role in promoting cultural awareness and historical significance among attendees.

A notable highlight of the event was the screening of a documentary film detailing the visit of King Alexander I Karađorđević and Queen Maria to Montenegro and Dalmatia in 1925. The film provided context to the cultural and historical ties that bind Montenegro’s past with its present.

Numerous attendees included Metropolitan Metodije of Budimlja-Nikšić, protojerej-stavrofor Slobodan Boban Jokic, and Milica Lalatović Žižic, the President of the Niksic Assembly, along with many local citizens. Their participation signifies a collective commitment to preserving Montenegro’s rich heritage and honoring its historical figures.

The restoration of the Njegoš Chapel is not merely a construction project; it represents a unified effort to honor a legacy, strengthen cultural ties, and reaffirm national identity. As the community continues to reflect on Njegoš’s impact, the chapel’s renewal stands as a testament to Montenegro’s enduring spirit and dedication to its history.