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Goran Jović tells RTS that the idea for the crypt was conceived to exist within the temple by the temple’s designers, Professors Nestorović and Derok.
“The original idea was to be much smaller. “What exists today in the part of the crypt is the part of the ancient tomb that was formed when the foundation stone was built in 1939, and after the renovation of works started by Patriarch Pavle in 2001, the crypt was formed under the central nave of the temple, “said Jovic.
The crypt was originally intended to be part of the SOC museum.
“The space behind the altars and tombs is specific in the sense that the earthly remains of our future or great patriarchs that our church and our people will have will be stored there,” Jovic said.
The new crypt of the patriarch, as it is called, is, he says, connected to a part of the central crypt with two entrances.
“The subject of the frescoes includes plays that talk about the crucifixion and suffering of Christ,” says Jović.
He adds that Patriarch Irinej was very present in the work process.
“The painting of the crypt started with a competitive exhibition, and after that exhibition, sketches and drawings were developed, which later resulted in painting,” Jović noted.
Patriarch Irinej was buried today in the Temple of Saint Sava.
