Kotor, this picturesque village, nestled between ominous mountains and a gloomy bay cove, is completely in tune with its surroundings. Starting in the ninth century and modified up until the eighteenth, its robust walls arch high up the slopes behind it. They blend well with the mountain’s grey exterior from a distance, but at night they are brilliantly lit, reflecting in the lake to give the town a golden halo. Within those walls, you’ll find maze-like pathways made of marble with churches, shops, taverns, and restaurants hidden on secret piazzas.
The yachts of the wealthy fill the marina in Kotor during the summer months, but this town never becomes nearly as touristy as other areas of the coast since this sheltered arm of the bay isn’t as inviting for swimming. But Kotor will be a highlight of any traveler’s trip to Montenegro if they have a soft spot for architecture, romance, and living history.
What to do in Kotor Montenegro
Kotor is a beautiful coastal town in Montenegro with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Kotor:
- Explore the old town: Kotor’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with beautiful medieval architecture, narrow streets, and picturesque squares. Take a leisurely stroll through the town’s winding alleys and enjoy the stunning views of the bay.
- Visit the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon: This beautiful Roman Catholic church is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kotor, with stunning architecture, beautiful frescoes, and a collection of relics.
- Climb the city walls: The city walls of Kotor offer stunning views of the old town and the surrounding bay. The climb is steep, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
- Hike to the fortress of San Giovanni: The fortress of San Giovanni is located on a hill overlooking Kotor and offers breathtaking views of the town and the bay. The hike to the top is challenging, but the views from the summit are unforgettable.
- Visit the Maritime Museum: This fascinating museum is housed in the historic Pima Palace and offers a fascinating glimpse into the seafaring history of the region.
- Relax on the beaches: Kotor is surrounded by beautiful beaches, including the popular beach of Jaz. Spend a day lounging on the sand, swimming in the clear waters, and soaking up the sun.
- Take a boat tour: A boat tour of the bay is a great way to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the stunning scenery. There are a variety of tour options available, from short cruises to full-day excursions.
Overall, Kotor offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, from history and culture to outdoor activities and relaxation.
The exact origin of the name “Kotor” is not clear, but it is believed to have been derived from the Greek word “katera” which means “good hunting ground”. Another theory suggests that the name may have originated from the Latin word “catharum”, which means “fortress” or “castle”. The town has had various names throughout its history, including Decatera during the Roman period and Cattaro during the Venetian period.
The town has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years, and it has been inhabited by various civilizations throughout its history.
The town’s origins can be traced back to the Illyrian period, when it was a small fortified settlement called Acruvium. The town was later conquered by the Romans, who named it Decatera, and it became an important trading center due to its strategic location on the Adriatic Sea.
In the early Middle Ages, Kotor was part of the Byzantine Empire and later came under the rule of the Venetian Republic. During this period, the town flourished and became a major center for trade and commerce in the Adriatic.
In the 14th century, Kotor came under the control of the Bosnian Kingdom, which was followed by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. During this time, the town’s population declined, and it lost much of its economic and cultural influence.
In the 19th century, Kotor became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which brought renewed prosperity to the town. Many new buildings were constructed during this period, including the iconic clock tower and the Maritime Museum.
Following World War I, Kotor became part of Yugoslavia, and it remained under Yugoslav rule until Montenegro gained independence in 2006. Today, Kotor is a popular tourist destination due to its well-preserved medieval architecture, beautiful coastline, and rich cultural heritage. The town’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it attracts visitors from all over the world who come to explore its ancient walls, charming narrow streets, and picturesque squares.
Today, Kotor is a bustling coastal town and a popular tourist destination in Montenegro. The town’s historic center, known as Stari Grad, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Bay of Kotor.
Kotor is home to a thriving tourist industry, with visitors coming from all over the world to explore the town’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The town’s narrow streets are lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. Visitors can also explore the town’s many churches, including the 12th-century Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and the Church of Saint Luke, which dates back to the 13th century.
In addition to its historic center, Kotor is also known for its beautiful coastline and stunning natural surroundings. The Bay of Kotor is a popular destination for sailing, kayaking, and other water sports, and the surrounding mountains offer numerous opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities.
Kotor is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Kotor Carnival, which takes place in February, and the Bokeljska Night festival, which celebrates the town’s maritime heritage in August.
Overall, Kotor is a vibrant and beautiful coastal town that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to outdoor adventure and relaxation.
Kotor Old Town
The old town, also known as Stari Grad, is a historic walled city located on the shores of the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic.
The old town is surrounded by walls that date back to the 9th century and are over 4 kilometers long. The walls were built to protect the town from invading armies and still stand today as a testament to Kotor’s rich history.
Inside the walls, visitors can explore a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. The town’s main square, Trg od Oruzja, is home to the Clock Tower, the Pima Palace, and the Prince’s Palace, which now houses the Museum of Kotor.
Other notable landmarks in the old town include the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, a Roman Catholic church that dates back to the 12th century, and the Church of Saint Luke, which was built in the 13th century.
The old town is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. Visitors can sample traditional Montenegrin cuisine, such as fresh seafood and local wines, while enjoying the stunning views of the bay.
Overall, the old town of Kotor is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Montenegro. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and charming atmosphere make it one of the most beautiful and unique towns in the Adriatic.
Pima Palace
Pima Palace is a historic building located in the old town. The palace dates back to the 17th century and was built by the Pima family, one of the wealthiest and most influential families in Kotor at the time.
The palace is a fine example of Baroque architecture, with ornate facades, intricate stonework, and elegant balconies. The interior of the palace is equally impressive, with grand halls, vaulted ceilings, and beautiful frescoes and paintings.
Today, Pima Palace is home to the Maritime Museum of Montenegro, which features exhibits on the history of seafaring and maritime trade in the Adriatic region. The museum’s collection includes models of ships, nautical instruments, and artifacts related to the history of maritime trade in the region.
Visitors to Pima Palace can also explore the palace’s beautiful interior, including the grand hall, which features a magnificent ceiling fresco depicting scenes from Greek mythology. The palace’s courtyard is also worth a visit, with its beautiful fountain and elegant staircase leading up to the upper floors.
Overall, Pima Palace is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kotor, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of this beautiful coastal town and the rich maritime heritage of the Adriatic region.
The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon
The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon is a Roman Catholic church located in the old town . The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Tryphon, the patron saint of Kotor, who is believed to have protected the town from invasions and natural disasters.
The cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is a fine example of Romanesque architecture, with a beautiful rose window and ornate doorways. The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with richly decorated vaulted ceilings, beautiful frescoes, and intricate stone carvings.
One of the most notable features of the cathedral is its collection of relics, including the remains of Saint Tryphon himself, as well as relics of other saints and martyrs. The relics are kept in a silver reliquary, which is carried in procession through the streets of Kotor during the annual Feast of Saint Tryphon, a major festival in the town’s calendar.
Visitors to the cathedral can also climb the tower for stunning views of the old town and the surrounding bay. The climb is steep, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
Overall, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kotor, offering a fascinating glimpse into the town’s rich history and religious traditions, as well as some of the most beautiful architecture and art in the Adriatic region.
The Church of Saint Luke
The Church of Saint Luke is a historic Roman Catholic church located in the old town. The church is dedicated to Saint Luke, one of the four evangelists of the Christian tradition.
The church dates back to the 13th century and is a fine example of Romanesque architecture, with a simple, unadorned facade and a single nave. The interior of the church is equally understated, with beautiful stone arches and vaulted ceilings.
One of the most notable features of the Church of Saint Luke is its collection of religious art and artifacts, including a beautiful altarpiece and a collection of ancient manuscripts and books. The church’s collection of art and artifacts is a testament to the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Kotor and the surrounding region.
Visitors to the Church of Saint Luke can also enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the church, which is a perfect retreat from the bustling streets of the old town. The church is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the rich religious and cultural traditions of Kotor and the wider region.
Overall, the Church of Saint Luke is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, art, and religious traditions, and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Kotor.
Fortress of San Giovanni
The Fortress of San Giovanni is a historic fortress located on a hill above the town. The fortress dates back to the 6th century and was built by the Byzantine Empire to protect the town from invaders.
The fortress is a popular attraction for visitors to Kotor and offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding bay. The climb to the fortress is steep and challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
Visitors can access the fortress by hiking up a winding trail that starts in the old town of Kotor. The hike takes around an hour and a half and involves a climb of around 1350 steps.
Once at the top of the fortress, visitors can explore the ruins of the old fortifications, including the walls, towers, and gates. The views from the top of the fortress are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the town, the bay, and the surrounding mountains.
The fortress is open to visitors during the daytime and is a popular destination for hikers, history buffs, and anyone looking for stunning views of Kotor and the surrounding area. Overall, the Fortress of San Giovanni is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Kotor, offering a fascinating glimpse into the town’s rich history and culture, as well as some of the most spectacular views in the region.
Kotor is known for its large population of cats, which are a beloved and integral part of the town’s culture and history. The cats of Kotor are famous for their friendliness and can be seen lounging in the sun, napping on the town’s ancient walls, and mingling with visitors in the town’s squares and streets.
The cats have been a fixture in the town for centuries and are believed to have been brought to the town by sailors and traders who used them to control the rodent population on their ships. Over time, the cats became a beloved part of the town and were cared for by the local residents.
Today, the cats of Kotor are protected by law, and there is even a Cat Museum in the town that celebrates their role in the town’s culture and history. The museum features exhibits on the history of cats in Kotor, as well as a collection of cat-themed artwork and souvenirs.
Visitors to city can also purchase cat-themed souvenirs from local shops and cafes, and many restaurants and cafes in the town have resident cats that are free to roam around and interact with guests.
Overall, the cats of Kotor are a beloved and unique aspect of the town’s culture and history, and they are sure to charm visitors who come to explore this beautiful and historic coastal town.
