Kotor’s ancient city walls, built between the 9th and 18th centuries to protect the city from invaders, stretch up the steep hillsides to the dramatic ruins of the San Giovanni Fortress, where one can stand and gaze out over the panoramic bay. The old town is so gorgeous it looks like it belongs in a movie, and it has been. The 2017 biographical drama ‘Papillon’ was filmed in its medieval streets; the 1988 movie starring a young Brad Pitt, ‘The Dark Side of the Sun’, used Kotor for several scenes; and ‘The November Man’, made in 2014, starring Pierce Brosnan, has the Bay of Kotor as its backdrop.
A stunning coastal town of Montenegro located along the Adriatic Sea, Kotor is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, dramatic bay setting, and rich history dating back to Roman times. The feet of Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans have all left their unique mark on its cultural landscape over the centuries. Often described as one of the most beautiful towns in the Mediterranean, it sits within the deep, fjord-like Bay of Kotor, surrounded by the wildness of nature in the form of dramatic, towering cliffs, and the demarcation of lush green farmland appearing like a patchwork quilt of velvet.
The people of Kotor have a charming old tradition of placing votive tablets and small boats on the rocks surrounding the island, symbolizing gratitude and prayers for safe voyages. Over centuries, a colorful display has accumulated that reflects the deep spiritual connection between the local community and the sea. The maze of narrow, winding streets in the old town is lined with medieval buildings, charming squares, cute cafes, bakeries, bustling markets, and historic churches, such as the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, a Romanesque structure dating back to the 12th century that remains a central religious and cultural symbol.
The local cuisine is a gourmet offering of fresh seafood, local cheeses, and wines that reflect the Mediterranean influence, combined with local ingredients and culinary traditions passed down through generations. Olive oil plays a vital role in many dishes. The locally produced extra virgin olive oil is a cornerstone of Montenegrin cooking. The region also boasts a variety of cheeses, such as ‘kachkaval’, a semi-hard cheese that pairs perfectly with local warm crusty bread and wine. ‘Burek’, is a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach, a popular snack, often enjoyed with a glass of local wine or raki, a traditional Montenegrin spirit made from grapes or fruit. The town’s culinary traditions are also celebrated through ‘Tavče Gravče’, a hearty bean stew cooked in a traditional clay pot, flavored with herbs, vegetables, and sometimes smoked meat, embodying the rustic and wholesome nature of Montenegrin cuisine.
One of the most iconic dishes is ‘Njegusi prosciutto’, a dry-cured ham from the nearby village of Njeguši, known for its distinctive smoky flavor and tender texture. This delicacy is often served with chunks of bread or as part of a platter alongside cheese and fresh vegetables. Another staple is Kotor-style fish: fresh fish such as sardines, anchovies, and octopus are grilled after being prepared with herbs and olive oil. For the sweet tooth, there is the traditional ‘Krofnice’, sweet fried doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar, and of course ‘baklava’, layered pastry filled with nuts and honey, highlighting Ottoman influences in the region’s culinary history. Local wines and spirits further complement the food, with Montenegro producing some excellent wines, particularly from the region around Kotor.
The town is famous for its maritime heritage and spirit, which is celebrated through various museums and historical sites. The small artificial island in the bay upon which the Old Lady of the Rocks sits is an historically significant site. The island's name is derived from a local legend dating back to the 15th century, when sailors and villagers believed that a vision of the Madonna appeared on a rock, inspiring them to build a church on the island. Over the centuries, the island has been transformed into a religious sanctuary and a symbol of faith.
Beyond the historic core, the natural landscape surrounding Kotor contributes to its UNESCO status. The bay is flanked by rugged mountains, including the towering Lovćen Mountain, which is part of the Lovćen National Park. This park is home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, a revered Montenegrin poet and ruler. The scenic vistas from Lovćen offer breathtaking views of Kotor and the surrounding region, making it a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. Kotor is close to other Montenegrin attractions, such as the historic town of Perast, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.
Gail Palethorpe, a self proclaimed Australian gypsy, is a freelance writer, photographer and eternal traveller. Check out her website Gail Palethorpe Photography and her Shutterstock profile.
