Sava Tekelija

Sava Tekelija (Serbian Cyrillic: Сава Текелија; 1761 – 1842) was a prominent Serbian nobleman, philanthropist, lawyer, and patron of the arts. He is regarded as one of the most important figures of the Serbian Enlightenment and National Revival.

Born in Arad (then part of the Habsburg Monarchy), Tekelija hailed from a wealthy Aromanian family that had been ennobled for their contributions to the Habsburg Empire. He studied law and philosophy in Vienna and Budapest, earning a doctorate in law.

Tekelija dedicated his life and considerable fortune to the advancement of Serbian culture and education. He founded the Tekelijanum, a student dormitory and cultural institution in Budapest, which provided financial support and accommodation for Serbian students studying at universities in the Habsburg Empire. The Tekelijanum played a crucial role in fostering a sense of Serbian national identity and educating a new generation of Serbian intellectuals.

Beyond the Tekelijanum, Sava Tekelija supported numerous other Serbian educational and cultural initiatives, including schools, libraries, and publishing houses. He was a strong advocate for the modernization of Serbian society and the preservation of Serbian cultural heritage. He also served as the president of Matica Srpska, the oldest Serbian cultural and scientific institution, from 1838 until his death.

Tekelija's legacy continues to be celebrated by Serbs worldwide as a symbol of philanthropy, patriotism, and commitment to education and culture. He is remembered as a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in shaping modern Serbian identity.