A Holy Sanctuary at the Top of Europe
On Carine, a part of Komovi also known as Krst od Prevlake, a place destined for emperors, where man is closer to the sky and God, stands the Church of St. Elijah. This sacred site is unique because it is located at an altitude of 1800 meters, making it one of the highest-altitude churches in Europe.
History and Foundation
The church was built by Prince Nikola I Petrović in 1900, in honor and for the soul of his father, Duke Mirko Petrović Njegoš, as a sign of respect for the brave tribe of Kuči. An inscription at the entrance to the church bears witness to this historic event:
“This temple was built by His Highness Prince Nikola I Petrović for the repose of the soul of his father, Duke Mirko Petrović Njegoš, for the brave tribe of Kuči in the year 1900.”
Restoration and Significance
The church was rebuilt from the ground up between 1993 and 1995, with the blessing of Metropolitan Amfilohije Radović of Montenegro and the Littoral. The restoration was the result of the great effort and selfless contributions of Mihailo Prelević, Protopriest Dragan Mitrović, as well as numerous members of the Kuči, Vasojevići, and Bratonožići clans, along with other benefactors, including various public and private organizations and enterprises.
During this period, a bell tower and monastery quarters were built, which were consecrated in 1995 and entrusted to the Brotherhood of the Cetinje Monastery. Next to the church, one can find old warrior, spearman, and shepherd graves, solitary and overgrown with grass, many without names or markings, with decayed crosses covered in moss. Engineer Mihailo Prelević, one of the key figures in the church’s restoration, is also buried beside it.
The Soul of Komovi
This church is more than just a building—it is the soul of Komovi, history carved in stone, and a timeless, sacred place. Throughout the centuries, mountain tribes have gathered here to discuss unity, solidarity, and the future. There are no fortresses or towns here—only the mountains, and the strength of the people’s spirit.
Unlike many other churches, this one is never locked. Its doors remain open to travelers, pilgrims, and all who seek solace. During spring, summer, and autumn, Carine comes to life, and access to the church is made easier as one can reach it by car.
The Holy Gathering on Ilindan
On Krst od Prevlake, where stone, flowers, pine, and springs have risen from the heart of the earth, man arrived to admire the beauty and to build a church. Everything here is grand, sacred, and eternal.
Every year, on Ilindan (St. Elijah’s Day), people gather for a traditional assembly, an ancient gathering place that has long connected people, the spirits of their ancestors, and the sacredness of this land.
The Church of St. Elijah on Carine stands as a witness to the past and a guardian of the future, a place where heaven and earth unite in prayer.
