Lazarica

The Serbian Orthodox Church of the Holy Prince Lazar.

In Birmingham. On the Bournville Estate to be exact.

After the Second World War, the community leader of the Serbian refugees approached Sir Adrian Cadbury to see if they could build a Church on his land.

He told him to come back with £6000. The parishioners found the money and Sir Adrian realised they were serious.

Every stone, every piece of wood, every item was brought over from Serbia and the Church was crafted with care. Experienced icon painters, stonemasons......all worked to achieve this wonderful building. It opened in 1968.

It’s breathtaking.

I’ve been meaning to go and see it for many years but it is so rarely open. Today was an open day, as part of the Heritage Days activities.

We were made wonderfully welcome.

A real treasure.

Extra : the very special icon which is on temporary loan.