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Published on April 3, 2026

Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast: A Guide to the Bay of Kotor's Jewels

Nestled within the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, the charming town of Perast and its iconic man-made island, Our Lady of the Rocks, stand as timeless testaments to Montenegro's rich history, maritime prowess, and enduring faith. These two extraordinary destinations offer visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a peaceful escape into a bygone era.

Discovering Perast: A Glimpse into Maritime History

Perast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is more than just a picturesque village; it's a living museum. Unlike the bustling Old Town Budva or Old Town Herceg Novi, Perast offers a tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to wander its single main street and absorb its rich past. Once a thriving maritime center during the Venetian Republic, Perast was home to wealthy sea captains, merchants, and shipbuilders, whose legacy is beautifully preserved in its Baroque palaces and churches.

A Walk Through Time

As you stroll along the waterfront promenade, you'll be captivated by the elegant stone palaces, many adorned with intricate facades, balconies, and coats of arms. These structures, built by prominent families, reflect the town's prosperity and its strong ties to Venice. The architecture is remarkably uniform, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing streetscape that transports you back centuries.

Key Sights in Perast

  • St. Nicholas Church:Dominating the town's skyline, this church boasts an impressive 55-meter bell tower that offers panoramic views of the bay and the islands. While the church itself is beautiful, the climb to the top of the bell tower is a must for photography enthusiasts.
  • Perast Museum:Housed in the magnificent Bujović Palace, the museum showcases Perast's illustrious maritime history. Here, you can find artifacts, maps, weapons, and portraits that tell the story of the town's captains, sailors, and their heroic deeds.
  • Palaces and Churches:Beyond the Bujović Palace, numerous other palaces like the Balović, Smekja, and Zmajević palaces line the waterfront, each with its own story. Explore the various smaller churches, each contributing to the town's spiritual and architectural tapestry.

Did you know?Perast once had its own fleet of hundreds of ships and a renowned naval school. Its strategic position within the Bay of Kotor made it a vital outpost for Venetian trade and defense.

Our Lady of the Rocks: An Island Born of Faith

Just a short boat ride from Perast lies one of Montenegro's most unique and beloved landmarks: Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela). This isn't a natural island but a man-made marvel, built up over centuries by local fishermen.

The Legend and Creation

The story begins in 1452, when two fishermen from Perast discovered an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the bay after a shipwreck. Believing it to be a miracle, they vowed to build a church on that very spot. Over the next 200 years, local seamen, after successful voyages, would drop rocks into the water around the original crag. This tradition, known asFasinada, continues to this day, with locals gathering annually on July 22nd to throw rocks into the sea, gradually expanding the island. It’s a testament to communal effort and deep-seated faith.

The Church and Museum

The church itself, built in 1630, is a small Baroque masterpiece. Its interior is adorned with 68 frescoes by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th-century local artist, depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and Christ. The altar houses the miraculous icon that started it all. Adjacent to the church is a small museum displaying a fascinating collection of archaeological artifacts, votive tablets, and gifts from sailors, including a unique tapestry embroidered with human hair over 25 years by a local woman awaiting her husband's return from sea.

Our Lady of the Rocks is not just a religious site; it's a symbol of resilience, community, and the human spirit's ability to create beauty in the most unexpected places. Visiting this island offers a profound insight into the cultural and spiritual heart of the Montenegrin coast.

Sveti Đorđe (St. George) Island

Next to Our Lady of the Rocks, you'll see a natural island, Sveti Đorđe, often referred to as "the island of the dead" or "Island of Cypresses." This picturesque island is home to a Benedictine monastery from the 12th century and a graveyard, surrounded by tall cypress trees. Unlike Our Lady of the Rocks, Sveti Đorđe is not open to the public, adding to its mysterious and romantic aura.

Getting There and Around

Perast is easily accessible, making it a popular day trip destination. Its proximity to Kotor makes it an ideal addition to any Bay of Kotor itinerary.

  • By Car:You can drive to Perast, but parking can be challenging, especially during peak season, as the town center is largely pedestrianized. There are paid parking lots at the entrance to the town.
  • By Bus:Regular local buses connect Perast with Kotor and Risan. This is a cost-effective and scenic option.
  • By Boat Tour:Many boat tours departing from Kotor include Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks as part of their itinerary. This is often the most convenient way to experience both.
  • From Perast to Our Lady of the Rocks:Small boats (known as 'barkajoli') regularly depart from Perast's waterfront for the short ride to the island. You can usually purchase a return ticket directly from the boatmen.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time to Visit:The shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is vibrant but can be very busy and hot.
  • Dress Code:When visiting the churches on Our Lady of the Rocks and in Perast, it's respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Footwear:Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to climb the bell tower in Perast or explore the island.
  • Allow Time:Give yourself at least half a day to fully explore Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, perhaps more if you want to enjoy a leisurely meal by the water.
  • Photography:The views are spectacular, so bring your camera! Early morning or late afternoon light is best.

Beyond Perast: Exploring More of Montenegro

While Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks are highlights, Montenegro offers a diverse range of experiences. Consider extending your journey to explore other facets of this captivating country:

Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks encapsulate the soul of the Bay of Kotor– a blend of natural grandeur, human ingenuity, and deep-rooted tradition. A visit here is not just a stop on an itinerary, but an immersive journey into the heart of Montenegro's enduring charm.