Petar Jovanović (metropolitan)
Petar Jovanović (fl. 1833 – 1859) was a Serbian Orthodox cleric who served as the Metropolitan of Belgrade from 1833 to 1859. His tenure coincided with a period of significant political and religious development in the Principality of Serbia, including increased autonomy from the Ottoman Empire and the establishment of a more independent Serbian Orthodox Church.
Jovanović played a crucial role in consolidating the power and administration of the Serbian Orthodox Church within the Principality. He oversaw the organization of dioceses, the appointment of clergy, and the management of church properties. He was also involved in negotiations with the Ottoman authorities and later with the Serbian government regarding the church's status and privileges.
His leadership was instrumental in fostering education and literacy among the Serbian population. He supported the establishment and maintenance of schools and promoted the printing of religious texts in the Serbian language.
Petar Jovanović's contributions to the Serbian Orthodox Church and to the development of Serbian society were considerable during his time as Metropolitan of Belgrade. He is remembered as a significant figure in the history of the Serbian Orthodox Church.