raska

Raska, also written Raška, refers to a historic region in central Serbia and to the modern Raška District, an administrative unit with its seat in Kraljevo. The district lies in the central‑west part of the country, in the lower Ibar river basin and the surrounding mountains. The landscape features a mix of river valleys, hills and forests, supporting a regional economy based on agriculture, industry and trade.

Historically, Raska played a central role in medieval Serbia. It gave rise to the Raška architectural school, a distinctive form of church architecture from the early 13th century that helped shape Serbian medieval style. The Studenica Monastery, located in the greater Raska area, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a important symbol of the region’s cultural and religious heritage.

In modern administration, Raška District is a public‑administrative division of Serbia, with Kraljevo as its administrative center. The district comprises several municipalities and towns and is characterized by a predominantly Serb population, alongside minority communities such as Roma. Population distribution centers on urban areas around Kraljevo, with rural communities dispersed across the surrounding hills and plains.

The economy is diversified, with manufacturing and services concentrated in Kraljevo and agriculture prevailing in rural municipalities. The region is connected by major road and rail routes that link Belgrade with southern and western Serbia, contributing to trade and mobility. Cultural heritage sites, natural scenery and historic towns remain notable draws for visitors and researchers interested in Serbia’s medieval and regional history.