Kotor, Montenegro is known for its medieval fortifications that extend from the Adriatic coast and wind their way 4.5km up the limestone cliffs of Mount Lovćen and Orjen. Founded by the Romans in the 10th century as Acruvium, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Montenegro’s oldest city. Just 80km from Dubrovnik, Croatia, Kotor is well worth a visit.
Located on the Bay of Kotor and surrounded by majestic mountains, this picturesque historic city is full of charm!
Kotar’s walled Old Town is one of the best preserved in the Adriatic. The narrow streets are lined with examples of Roman-Byzantine, Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
The Sea Gate (West Gate) is the main entrance to the Old Town. Facing the port, it was constructed in 1555 under the Venetian rule and features the winged Lion of Saint Mark, the heraldic symbol of Venice, Italy. Above the gate is a memorial tablet inscribed 21-XI-1944, the date of the city was liberated from Nazi Germany.
The arched entrance opens onto the Trg od Oružja or Square of the Arms, the main town square. Anchored by the 17th century Clock Tower and Venetian-style Rector’s Palace it was once used to store munitions during the Venetian period.
The Clock Tower, built in 1602, was initially a lookout point for city-watchmen. The clock was added in the 18th century.
A myriad of intriguing side streets spread out from the Main Square, each holding a new experience. Take the time to meander down the narrow passageways to discover a small boutique, that special handmade souvenir or amazing photo-op.
Housed within the 18th century Grgurina Palace, the Maritime Museum is filled with a collection of exhibits depicting Kotor’s history with the sea. The Museum was created by the Boka Marine Fraternity and opened to the public in 1900.
Throughout its history, numerous religions have existed in Kotor with their influences visible in its churches. Today, the vast majority of Montenegrins are Eastern Orthodox Christians with a smaller number being Catholic. Yet both religions coexist peacefully with each actively participating in the other’s celebrations. Kotor is the perfect place to experience their differences and unique commonalities.
The Roman Catholic Cathedral of St. Tryphon dates from 1166. Featuring two bell towers (one unfinished), the structure is a mix of architectural styles and is considered one of Kotor’s most impressive churches. The Cathedral is named for the 3rd-century Christian Saint Tryphon of Campsada, a martyr in both Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox religions.
The most important Orthodox Church in Kotor, the Church of St. Nicholas was built in 1909. Framed by two black domes topped by golden Orthodox crosses, it was constructed in the Pseudo-Byzantine style. Named for Saint Nicholas of Myra, one of the most beloved saints of both Eastern Orthodox and Christians.
Dating to 1195, the small Church of St. Luke has been used as both a Catholic and Orthodox Church. Perhaps there most intriguing of all the churches, it has two altars – one for Catholics and the other for Orthodox.
Constructed in 1518 on a hillside overlooking Kotor, the Church of Our Lady of Remedy is the most difficult to access. Only be reachable by climbing some 700 steps up Mount Lovćen, this Roman Catholic chapel was built by the survivors of the plague that ravaged the city.
Seven palaces are located within the walls of Old Town Kotor. Spanning the 14th to 18th centuries, the palaces were owned by some of the most influential families.
Once considered Kotor’s most exquisite palace, the 17th century Palata Pima was owned by the esteemed Pima family. A museum showcasing artworks by several international artists.
Located in St. Tryphon’s Square, the 14th century Palata Drago was owned by the Drago family from the 14th to 19th centuries. The family held significant economic and political influence in Kotor for over five centuries. Today, it houses the Regional Institute of Cultural Preservation.
Finding a restaurant in Kotor is not difficult. Restaurants and outdoor cafes are everywhere! Try the Ombra Caffe & Lounge Bar or…
Find a charming cafe located on one of Kotor’s alleyways …
Naturally, you can expect to find rich Mediterranean cuisine of fresh seafood, but don’t pass up the local dishes of Njeguška pršuta (a dried cured ham similar to Italian prosciutto) or Krempita (layers of creamy custard and flaky pastry, served with a touch of powdered sugar).
A short 15km from Kotor, Perast is the ideal day trip. Overlooking the Verige Strait on a cape that separates the Bay of Risano from the Bay of Kotor, this UNESCO World Heritage village is only 1.5km long and can easily be walked in a matter of minutes. But rushing through Perast would be a mistake. What makes it so charming is the perfectly preserved 16 churches, 17 baroque palaces and a harbor too small to accommodate cruise liners which means fewer tourists. This tiny town of under 300 residents is packed full of intriguing history and legends.
Getting to Perast is easy. You can elect to drive, take a bus, a taxi or water taxi. If not traveling by car, the cheapest alternative is bus. Blue Lines departs every half hour from the Sea Gate at Kotor’s Old Town with a one-way fare of €2. Taking a taxi will cost around €10 one-way. If you are looking for the most picturesque trip, consider taking a water taxi. Water taxis depart from the port and prices are typically range around €30 per person one-way.
With its rich history, medieval charm and stunning scenery, Kotar Montenegro has something for everyone!
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