Manasija
(Resava) was built early in the 15th century. Its founder was Despot Stefan,
the son of Prince Lazar. In the Middle Ages, the monastery was known as
Resava.In contrast to all other churches of the Morava style, marble was
exclusively used in its construction.
Built at a crucial moment in the history of the medieval Serbian state, Manasija was transformed into a by stronghold, encircled with massive walls, fortified with eleven defensive towers. The fortifications are still well preserved.
Besides the monastery church, parts of the old refectory and library have also survived at Manasija. The library-housed manuscript workshop where the many books required by the Church were copied. The "Resava" script was highly valued and for a long time served as the model for subsequent scribes.
