Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Belgrade

The Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Belgrade is a historic Roman Catholic church with a rich and unique heritage. Built in 1795, it stands on the site of a former 16th-century mosque, which was demolished in 1784 during the Austro-Hungarian occupation. This period saw an influx of Catholics into the region, necessitating the construction of a new church. The architectural design of the church was undertaken by Thomas Zagrepčanina Miklaušića.

The church displays a blend of Empire and Baroque architectural elements and features a rather unusual arrangement for a Catholic church, with the altar facing east instead of the traditional west. This distinctive feature sets it apart from many other Catholic churches. Significant restoration work was carried out in 1817 to preserve its structure and beauty.

Located in front of the Zemun Outdoor Market, the church holds a prominent position in the community. Inside, one of the most remarkable features is the Baroque statue of the Black Virgin, made of ebony, alongside statues of Saints Peter and Paul. The church also contains one of the oldest specimens of thorny wood (Gleditsia triacanthos) in the region, standing over 15 meters high. This tree, brought from Jerusalem on the day the foundation stone was laid, has a profound symbolic connection to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, as its thorns were used to create the crown of thorns placed on Christ's head.

Overall, the Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is not only a place of worship but also a historical and architectural landmark, reflecting the cultural and religious evolution of the area.