Montenegro is located on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, and this fabulous country is attractive in many respects. Montenegro tourists should consider the local resorts for several reasons: relatively low prices, visa-free status for European countries, and rich architecture. A trip to Montenegro will leave many positive emotions and memories. Among the many resorts, the most interesting is the City of Kotor.
A Brief History of the City of Kotor
The Roman Empire formed Kotor as a port. The official year of the foundation is 168 BC. In that era, the City was called the Decaderon. Independence was obtained only in 1371, and from this point, it was considered the largest handicraft trading city. In the mid-14th century, an alliance with Venice was concluded due to the threat of the Ottoman invasion. This left an indelible mark on the architecture of the coastal resort. Ancient buildings and streets passed from era to era until 1979. Then, a strong earthquake occurred that razed almost half of all historical monuments to the earth. Since then, Kotor has come under UNESCO control and is considered part of the heritage of humanity. Kotor mainly did not participate in the civil war of Yugoslavia and, in the end, became part of present-day Montenegro.
The cultural life
The City is attractive not only for its rich history but also for its cultural events. The following events are held annually:
Kotor Art Festival
The first time it was organized was in 2007, and with each opening, it gathers more participants from more than thirty countries. The festival program is diverse: festivals of children's theatre, music orchestras, chamber singers, artists, architects/sculptors, and over 50 sites operated in the Old City during the event, which lasted almost a month. The festival begins in early July. The grand opening and closing occur on Kotor's main square: St. Tripun's Square.
International summer carnival
It begins on July 31 and lasts only three days. During this time, many people participate in a colourful procession, and tourists enjoy the holiday atmosphere. Concerts and various competitions are held. The carnival opens in the Square of Arms, and the final procession goes from the coast to this square.
Art lovers will appreciate the diversity of culture and creativity. Having visited these holidays of life, it is difficult to remain indifferent.
Sights of Kotor
The resort, with its size, leaves an impression of a village rather than a city. This circumstance is only in the hands of the tourist. For a first impression, you should go to the barrier of the Bay of Kotor. There are many yachts and liners against the backdrop of a mountainous sea landscape. Such a sight will constitute a correct understanding of life and the passage of time in these places. A visit to the old City is the reason why tourists visit Kotor—a variety of castles, cathedrals and ordinary houses. The entrance itself looks like an ancient fortress. Among all historical monuments, it is worth highlighting the following:
Northern river gate. A small boat trip along an ancient building. It sounds very romantic and alluring. Domes of cathedrals rise from behind the walls, and mountains surround the whole City. The northern part of the fortress was erected to protect against the Turkish invaders and seems genuinely impregnable.
Many palaces and cathedrals, houses of noble families of the past, were made in the Venetian style. Connoisseurs of architecture and history will have a rich tourist program.
A visit to the resort town of Kotor will appeal to tourists with various preferences. Rocky beaches, architectural monuments of the old City, and streets with ubiquitous outdoor cafes will appeal to fans of outdoor activities. Fans of climbing the mountains and paragliding above the old City will be interested in this place on the bay. There is something for everyone.