PLACES TO VISIT IN PERAST AND HERCEG NOVI
- berfinozelsel
- Jul 15, 2024
- 6 min read
MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE
PERAST
Perast is a historical and picturesque town located in the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. Located in the heart of Boka Kotorska bay, on the Adriatic Sea coast, Perast is famous for its rich history, baroque architecture and magnificent views. Perast, which became an important maritime center in the Middle Ages, showed great development, especially during the Republic of Venice. Baroque buildings built between the 15th and 18th centuries constitute the architectural richness of the town. Perast is famous for its numerous palaces and mansions built in baroque style. Among these, Bujović Palace, Zmajević Palace and Smekja Palace attract attention. These structures were built by wealthy sailor families in the 17th and 18th centuries.
While walking through the narrow streets of the town, you can encounter unique sea views among historical buildings. You can also enjoy the peaceful view of the Adriatic Sea by sitting in the cafes located on the seaside. You can enjoy seafood and try local wines in the town's restaurants.
Perast is approximately 12 kilometers from Kotor and can be easily reached by car or bus. It is also approximately 20 kilometers from Tivat Airport, providing easy access for international visitors.
Must-see places in Perast: St. Nikola Church, Lady of the Rocks Island, Saint George Island, City Museum, Bajova Kula
Sveti George Island (Sveti Djordje)
Sveti George Island is one of two small islands located in the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro and is known for its fascinating history and natural beauty. Located just off the town of Perast, this island is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Sveti George Island takes its name from the Benedictine Monastery of Sveti George, which was built in the 12th century. In addition to the monastery, the island also attracts attention with its historical cemetery. The history of the monastery dates back to the Middle Ages and offers important clues about the religious and cultural past of Montenegro. Throughout history, the island has been damaged and rebuilt many times due to various natural events and wars.
Sveti George Island; It is closed to visitors because it houses a 12th-century monastery. You can see the island by passing by with the boat tours organized for Our Lady of the Rocks Island departing from Perast. There are olive trees and Mediterranean plants on the coast of the island, combining with the historical texture of the monastery and offering a wonderful view.
Our Lady of Rocks Island
Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) is one of two small islands located in the Bay of Kotor, just off the town of Perast. This is an island with both historical and religious significance.
Our Lady of the Rocks is a man-made island and its construction began in 1452. The island was built by filling the sea with stones and sunken old ships. The most well-known legend about the construction of this extraordinary island is that two sailors found an icon of the Virgin Mary in the sea and started the tradition of creating an islet by throwing stones here after each sea voyage. Over time, this tradition grew with the participation of all the people of the region and led to the formation of today's island.
Our Lady of the Rocks Church, located on the island, was completed in 1630. The church contains many valuable works of art and religious icons. Especially the frescoes and icons dedicated to the Virgin Mary attract the attention of visitors. The church also houses numerous silver plates left behind by sailors; These plates were made to express sailors' gratitude to the Virgin Mary.
The "Fašinada" festival, held every year on July 22, is one of the most important events on the island. In this tradition, local people go to the island by boat and throw stones into the sea, contributing to the expansion of the island. This festival is an important event that continues to keep the historical and cultural heritage of the island alive.
Our Lady of the Rocks Island is easily accessible by boats departing from Perast. These boat tours are usually organized together with Sveti George Island, so you can visit both islands.
Our Lady of the Rocks Island is a must-see destination with its historical and religious significance, located in the heart of the Bay of Kotor. It offers visitors an unforgettable experience with both its legends and natural beauties.
St. Nicholas Church (Sveti Nikola Church)
It is a Catholic church built in 1671, located in the main square of Perast. It has a 55-meter bell tower with a clock. These bells, which were added to the church in 1713, were the largest bells in Europe at the time. Entrance to the church is free, but if you want to go up to the bell tower, you can go up for 1 Euro. While you're here, be sure to go up to the Bell Tower! You will both witness the view of the city and also tick off one of the famous photo points.
Perast Beach
Perast coast is one of the most special corners of Montenegro with its historical texture and natural beauties. Perast is a unique destination for those who want to make historical discoveries and enjoy the sea and the sun. With its calm atmosphere and fascinating views, Perast offers peaceful memories to its visitors.
Walking along Perast's coastline is an ideal activity to enjoy the sea and nature. The cafes and restaurants along the beach are perfect stops to take a break and enjoy the view. You can enjoy the clean and clear waters on the beach. Small beach areas on the coast are ideal for enjoying the sun and the sea. There are also many restaurants serving fresh seafood here. Tasting delicious seafood accompanied by the breathtaking view of the bay offers an unforgettable experience.
HERCEG NOVI
Herceg Novi is a historical city and a popular tourist destination located on the Adriatic Sea coast of Montenegro. Known for its medieval castles, historical buildings and beautiful beaches, Herceg Novi also offers its visitors a pleasant holiday experience throughout the year with the mild weather conditions offered by the Mediterranean climate.
Herceg Novi was founded in 1382 by Bosnian King Tvrtko I. Throughout history, the city has been under the rule of various civilizations such as the Venetians, Ottomans, Spaniards, and Austrians. Therefore, the architecture and cultural texture of Herceg Novi is quite rich. The narrow streets, stone houses and impressive buildings in the historical center of the city offer visitors a journey back in time.
Places to Visit and Activities
Forte Mare Castle : Built in the 14th century, this castle is one of the most important historical buildings of Herceg Novi. The castle fascinates visitors with its sea view and historical texture.
Kanlı Kula (Kanli Kula) : This tower, built for defensive purposes in the Middle Ages, is now a venue used for cultural events and concerts. It is also famous for its magnificent view.
Savina Monastery : Founded in the 11th century, this Orthodox monastery is known for its historical and religious significance. The monastery impresses its visitors with its baroque architecture and sea view.
Herceg Novi Old Town : The old town, famous for its narrow streets, stone houses and historical buildings, has many hidden beauties waiting to be discovered. Walking in this region is an ideal activity to feel the historical texture.
Natural Beauties and Beaches
Igalo : Located in the west of Herceg Novi, Igalo is famous for its healing mud baths and thermal springs. You can spend a relaxing day at the health and wellness centers here.
Zanjic Beach : Famous for its clean and clear waters, Zanjic Beach is a perfect place for swimming and sunbathing. There are many restaurants and cafes around the beach.
Lustica Peninsula : Known for its natural beauties and untouched bays, the Lustica Peninsula is an ideal destination for hiking and nature trips.
Herceg Novi is one of the most special destinations in Montenegro with its historical and cultural riches, natural beauties and peaceful atmosphere. Offering many discovery opportunities for both history buffs and nature lovers, this city promises its visitors an unforgettable holiday experience. Herceg Novi is ready to welcome its visitors with its warm and friendly atmosphere.
It was the 4th and last stop of our Montenegro trip and it was our favorite place in Montenegro. It had a different atmosphere than other cities and was calmer in terms of the number of tourists. The place you should explore first in the city is the Old Town, as in other cities. In the Old Town, you will see the Clock Tower, locally known as Sahat Kula. Be sure to take a photo in front of this tower that looks like a chess piece! It is one of the famous photo spots of Montenegro. When you continue passing under the tower, you will see that the old city continues. When you go up, you will see Belavista Square, where the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel is located and the old city fountain. The city is famous for its steep hills and stairs, so be prepared for walking and wear comfortable shoes.
Savina Monastery and Tito's summer house are also located here. If you have more than 1 day, you can add these points to your travel route.
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