Raska

The principality of Raška was the foundation of the Serbian state. Under Stefan Nemanja, who ruled Raška from 1169 to 1196, the principality began to expand. His son, Stefan Prvovenčani, secured the title of king of Serbia in 1217. The Nemanjić dynasty then established a powerful state that dominated the Balkans for two centuries. This era, particularly under Stefan Dušan (reigned 1331–1355), is considered Serbia's "Golden Age." During this period, the Serbian empire reached its greatest territorial extent, incorporating Macedonia, Albania, and parts of Greece and Bosnia. The close alliance between the Serbian Orthodox Church and the state was a key factor in the dynasty's strength and stability.1234