Travel // Going Around // Europe // Walled City of Kotor, Montenegro
Five days ago (May 30, 2010), the ship visited the port of Kotor in Montenegro, a country in southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. I should call this day as no ordinary day because I’ve seen a hidden paradise in the Adriatic, a paradise surrounded with green steep slope rocky mountains with peaceful and calm waterfront. Kotor is certainly one of Adriatic’s most beautiful places located at the foot of Mount Lovcen. Speaking of Mount Lovcen, well, I managed to walk up to the summit where St. John’s fortress overlooking the old city stands. The ascend would be around 45 minutes but it took us over an hour and a half to reach the summit. The breathtaking view from the top was really worth the climb especially the panoramic view of Kotor down below and its surrounding areas.
Fortifications that reach St. John’s fortress. Photo taken on May 30, 2010
Once belonged to the Byzantine Empire during the 11th to 13th century, Kotor is bounded by fortifications that reach St. John’s fortress. From where the ship docked, entrance to the walled city is just few meters away and if you go there walking, a matter of 5-minutes walk isn’t a big deal. Inside the walled city is the main town square where shops, restaurants and several other business establishments are located. Also within the walled city towards the foot of the mountain are residential houses. Kotor also has numerous seafood restaurants and modern cafes. With discotheques and nightclub, life in Kotor continues even at the break of the day.
Kotor main town square. Photo taken on May 30, 2010
Inhabitants of Kotor are particularly proud of their seafaring tradition that has been nurtured continuously for 12 centuries. This tradition is upheld by the celebrated Boka Navy which is a part of the most celebrated event in Montenegro. The entire city of Kotor is a cultural and historic monument under the protection of UNESCO. Kotor has several palaces which I regret not being able to visit and see myself, these includes Drago, Grgurina, Providurova Palace and Lombardic House. I only learned about these interesting places after reading the book titled “Montenegro” given to us by the ship’s agent and it is from that book I excerpted much of the details I posted here. The book features colorful glossy images of many different beautiful places in Montenegro.
St. Lukes Serbian Orthodox Church. Photo taken on May 30, 2010
Kotor and the 15th century Gospa od Zdaravlja Church. Photo taken on May 30, 2010
St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church. Photo taken on May 30, 2010
