Our journey through the picturesque landscapes of Montenegro began with a stop in the charming small city of Perast. Nestled along the Bay of Kotor, Perast welcomed us with its narrow cobblestone streets and well-preserved Baroque architecture.
Our first adventure awaited as we boarded a tour boat that would take us on across the sapphire blue waters of the Bay of Kotor. The sun beamed down on us, and the sky was a canvas of blue, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Our destination is the tiny Our Lady of the Rocks, a 17th-century Catholic Church perched on a flat island in the middle of the Bay of Kotor fjord. The church, adorned in Baroque style, stood as a testament to both architectural beauty and faith. Surrounded by lush green mountains, the island is like a divine sanctuary floating in the bay.
The church’s interior was a marvel of color – bright tones of blue and gold trim adorned the sanctuary. Frescoes covered the walls and ceilings, each telling a story from the Bible. What made this place truly special is the tradition of parishioners bringing items of everyday life, both large and small, as tokens of gratitude. Many held maritime significance, a testament to the community’s shared experiences of surviving storms and conflicts at sea.
Our Lady of the Rocks is more than a historical landmark; it’s an inspirational journey into the faith that unified this seaside community.
Returning to land, we made our way to Kotor, a city protected by formidable walls that span centuries of history. The Old Town, bustling with tourists, unfolded before us as we explored the narrow streets and open squares within the fortress walls.
Kotor’s walls, constructed over centuries, offered challenging and rewarding opportunities to explore the city from above. Hiking the walls reveal breathtaking views of the town and the bay. The city, home to over 3,000 people, teems with life, and its churches, shops, and restaurants cater to both locals and tourists alike.
Kotor’s charm lay not only in its historical significance but also in the resilience of its people and the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it. Montenegro, with its mix of history, faith, and natural wonders, undoubtedly earns a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.
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Video By Steve Geiger
Photos By Susan Geiger
It looks like you had an amazing time exploring Montenegro. It’s one of the countries I’ve always desire to visit in order to explore Kotor, wander around Perast and, of course, marvel at the beauty of Skadar Lake. Thanks for sharing and inspiring. Happy New year 🙂 Aiva xx
Happy New Year!