When October paints the forests and vineyards of Šumadija, Oplenac becomes one of the most beautiful places to visit. On the hills above Topola, Serbian history and the richness of nature blend into perfect harmony. At this time of year, the Church of St. George and the mausoleum of the Karađorđević dynasty shine under the golden autumn light, while the scents of wine and grapes drift from the surrounding vineyards.
Historical Significance
Oplenac is inseparably tied to Karađorđe, the leader of the First Serbian Uprising, as well as to King Peter I Karađorđević, who built here a monumental legacy – the Church of St. George. The interior of the church is adorned with mosaics that represent a true masterpiece of art – around 40 million pieces in over 15,000 shades. They depict frescoes from more than 60 Serbian monasteries and churches, serving as a unique “gallery of Serbian history and spirituality.”
October at Oplenac
Autumn is a special time here, as the Oplenac Harvest Festival takes place – a celebration of wine, grapes, and traditional music that gathers winemakers, artists, and visitors from across the country. During this event, the streets of Topola come alive, and guests have the chance to taste wines from the most renowned wineries of Šumadija.
What to See
- Mausoleum of the Karađorđević dynasty – the resting place of Karađorđe, King Peter I, and other members of the royal family.
- The House of King Peter I – an authentic display of life and personal items from his era.
- Wine Museum and vineyards.
- The Monument to Karađorđe in Topola.
Activities and Enjoyment
October is the perfect month for walks through the parks and forests of Oplenac, for capturing autumn landscapes, as well as for wine tours and winery visits. Topola is famous for its Šumadija hospitality and specialties such as roasted meat, homemade cheeses, and rakija.
Nearby
Close by are the Nikolje and Blagoveštenje monasteries, as well as villages known for ethno-tourism, such as Latkovac. Not far away lies Rajac, another important wine region.
