Our Lady of the Rocks: A Jewel of Montenegro's Maritime Heritage
Discover the enchanting Our Lady of the Rocks, an iconic man-made island in the Bay of Kotor, rich in history and breathtaking views.
Our Lady of the Rocks is a small, captivating artificial island situated in the Bay of Kotor, just off the coast of Perast, Montenegro. This historical landmark is not only visually stunning but steeped in legends and maritime heritage. Constructed over centuries by local seafarers, who laid stones in the sea to create it, the island is home to the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, a magnificent structure dating back to the 17th century. The church features breathtaking baroque architecture and houses a collection of exquisite paintings and artifacts that tell the story of its origins. The most famous of these is the stunning painting of the Madonna, crafted by local artist Tripo Kokolja, which draws visitors from around the world. Visitors can reach the island by a short boat ride, which adds to the overall charm of the experience. The journey offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the tranquil waters of the bay, making it a perfect opportunity for photography. Upon arrival, tourists can explore the island’s museum, which hosts fascinating exhibits about local history and the island's creation. As you stroll around, take a moment to appreciate the serene ambiance and the stunning vistas of the Bay of Kotor. The island is often adorned with colorful flowers and offers picturesque spots to relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. A visit to Our Lady of the Rocks is a unique opportunity to connect with Montenegro's rich cultural heritage while enjoying one of the most beautiful settings the Adriatic has to offer.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the bay and the church.
- Check local boat schedules for the best times to visit the island.
- Consider visiting during the summer for the best weather and visibility.
A brief summary to Our Lady of the Rocks
- FMPQ+PF5, Perast, ME
Getting There
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Walking
Start from the central square in Trebinje, Trg Slobode. Head southwest on Trg Slobode towards the intersection with Njegoševa Street. Continue straight along Njegoševa Street until you reach the bus station (Autobuska Stanica Trebinje). It's about a 10-minute walk. From there, take a local bus to Perast, Montenegro. The bus ride will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive at the Perast bus station, exit the bus and walk towards the waterfront. You will see signs for boat tours to Our Lady of the Rocks. Purchase a ticket for a boat trip that will take you to the island. The boat ride takes about 10 minutes, and it will drop you off directly at the island, where you can explore the historical site.
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Bus
From your location in Trebinje, make your way to the main bus station (Autobuska Stanica Trebinje). You can ask locals for directions if you're unsure. Board a bus heading to Perast, Montenegro. Buses typically run throughout the day, but check the schedule for exact times. The journey will take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon arriving in Perast, you will find yourself near the waterfront. Look for boat services that take visitors to Our Lady of the Rocks. Purchase a ticket at one of the kiosks or directly from the boat captain. The boat ride to the island is short, taking about 10 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Our Lady of the Rocks
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Perast
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Church of Our Lady of Škrpjela
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Naval Beacon
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Saint George
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Peskovita plaža Perast
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Палата Бујовић
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Perast Museum
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Smekja Palace
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Saint Apostle Mark Catholic Church
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Perast Viewpoint
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Church of Saint Nicholas
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Bell Tower in church Saint Nikolas
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Perast Lake Promenade
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Fort of the Holy Cross
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Viskovic Palace
