Franciscan Monastery of Saint John the Baptist and Saint Anthony, Belgrade

The Franciscan Monastery of Saint John the Baptist and Saint Anthony is one of Zemun’s notable Catholic landmarks and one of two active Franciscan monasteries in modern Belgrade. The Franciscan presence in Zemun is documented as early as the 14th century, while the community was reestablished here in 1717. The present monastery complex developed mainly during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Franciscans began constructing the monastery and church in 1750, with the church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and additional altars honoring Saint Anthony and other Catholic figures. The complex endured fires, wartime destruction and repeated rebuilding. After suffering severe damage in a fire in 1790, it underwent major reconstruction in 1807, while its distinctive bell tower was added in 1838.

For visitors, the monastery offers a quieter and more intimate experience than many of Zemun’s larger landmarks. Notice the church’s simple façade and bell tower, as well as the historic Franciscan cross, which has stood as a spiritual symbol at the site since the 18th century.

Another important feature is the monastery’s historic library, whose collection includes works dating back to the 16th century. By the 1990s, the cloister reportedly housed nearly 6,000 books, along with various works of art and other valuable objects.

Today, both the monastery and the adjoining church are protected cultural monuments, preserving an important reminder of Zemun’s Catholic heritage, religious diversity and centuries of Central European influence.