This evening, the Municipality of Andrijevica and the Public Institution Cultural and Sports Centre “Mihailo Lalić”, with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Metodije of Budimlja and Nikšić, organized a ceremonial academy entitled “Knjazevac – The Centuries-Old Sanctuary and the Identity of the Vasojevići.”
Due to unfavorable weather conditions, the event, originally planned for the square in front of the Church at Knjazevac, was instead held in the Grand Hall of the Cultural and Sports Centre “Mihailo Lalić” in Andrijevica.
The program was hosted by Ivana Zečević, who also recited the famous telegram sent on 16 December 1915 by King Nikola Petrović of Montenegro to Duke Lakić Vojvodić, commander of the Vasojevići Detachment. In the message, the King expressed his gratitude to the Vasojevići people for their courage, heroism, and brotherhood during the First World War.
On behalf of the hosts, the audience was welcomed by the Mayor of Andrijevica, Željko Ćulafić, who emphasized the importance of preserving the region’s cultural, spiritual, and historical heritage.
The keynote address was delivered by writer and journalist Darko Jovović, who spoke about Knjazevac as the historical and spiritual center of the Vasojevići tribe. His speech highlighted the legacy of the Vaso lineage, the Orthodox Christian tradition, the heritage of the Nemanjić dynasty, and the importance of safeguarding the cultural, spiritual, and national identity of the region.
The rich cultural program featured performances by the vocal ensemble “Đurđevi Stupovi,” young singer Darija Aković, who performed the song “Ne Dam” (I Will Not Surrender), traditional flute player Željko Martinović, and the “Komovi” Folk Ensemble, which presented traditional songs and dances, including the choreography “Games and Songs from Montenegro – Vrsuta.”
Throughout the academy, special emphasis was placed on the significance of Knjazevac as a centuries-old sanctuary and a symbol of the historical memory of the Vasojevići people. Through speeches, poetry recitations, and musical performances, the event conveyed a powerful message about the importance of preserving tradition, historical truth, and the legacy entrusted by previous generations.
The ceremonial academy once again affirmed Knjazevac as a lasting symbol of the Vasojevići identity—a place that reflects their long history, spiritual strength, and enduring love of freedom while reminding future generations of their responsibility to preserve their roots, identity, and cultural heritage.
The evening concluded with a reception and social gathering for all guests, accompanied by a musical performance by Sergej Arsenijević, a young pianist from Andrijevica, who added a graceful finale to the celebration.
