Summary
The superior of the Blaca Hermitage who renewed its economy, developed its library and printing press, and organized a school for children from nearby hamlets. He was the uncle and predecessor of the astronomer Nikola Miličević junior.
His contributions include a printing press and a school, along with the renewal of the monastic estate.
Renewing the community
Miličević senior, who came from Zvečanje, led the Blaca Hermitage from 1869 to 1923. He renewed its agricultural operations, access paths and water system, and repaired buildings and property after severe weather at the end of the 19th century. His administration is important for understanding Blaca as a working and educational community.
Sources: [1]
The printing press, books and school
He expanded the library and acquired a printing press. In 1897, he printed his own ‘Povjestne crtice o pustinji Blaca’ (‘Historical Sketches of the Blaca Hermitage’) at Blaca. In 1912, he organized classes for children from nearby hamlets, connecting economic life and education in this remote place.
Sources: [1]
Passing knowledge to his nephew
Nikola Miličević junior came to Blaca with his uncle and later succeeded him. Their names often appear together, but their contributions differed: the elder was especially important for the community’s renewal and institutions, while the younger was known for his astronomical work.