The cult and tomb of patriarch Pajsije – new findings and interpretations

Abstract

The paper discusses the relic of the head of the Serbian patriarch Pajsije, recently discovered in the Patriarchate of Pec monastery. Besides a painted cryptogram, the head also includes an extensive inscription with information about Pajsije?s title, time of reign, date of death and place of burial. Taking into account the historical and ideological context, the paper argues that the impetus for establishing Pajsije?s cult came from Patriarch Maksim, his follower and admirer. An analysis of archaeological documentation has shown that Pajsije?s tomb was located at the same spot as Patriarch Maksim?s grave later on. An icon of Patriarch Pajsije now kept in Ravenna made up a unified cultic ensemble with the coffin-reliquary.