The uncovered Dvorine church wall paintings

Abstract

ituated on the northern slopes of the Venčac mountain, approximately 100 kilometers south of Belgrade, the Dvorine site contains the remnants of a monumental medieval church. In 2016, archeological digs began that yielded remarkable discoveries, mainly thousands of fresco pieces, but also marble doorsteps. The church, which dates to the middle of the 14th century, was constructed in a style that is typical of the regions several hundred kilometers south. The closest similarities may be found at the Gračanica monastery (UNESCO list) and the Holy Archangels at Prizren. Fresco paintings were depicted in the best artistic style of the time. This sacred building was never completed, but based on its size and grandiosity the church is more like a royal endowment than a local lord churches. Sadly, historical sources provide no confirmation regarding this church. Because of this, an EDXRF analysis of the fresco paintings was carried out, taking into account the possibility that the use of exclusive pigments and a comparison with other churches from the era could provide light on the matter. The church was deserted soon after construction was stopped and used as a cemetery for the local population.