There are skyscraper hotels and bungalow hotels, there are hotels in caves and even ship hotels. But only in Montenegro there is an island hotel! And Montenegro is the only one of the countries of the former Yugoslavia, on the territory of which not a single shot was heard over all these years.
The name of the country was given, it turns out, by the Turks, who for five centuries tried to conquer this wonderful corner of southern Europe, but failed to the end. The mountains in Montenegro are really suitable for holidays in Montenegro almost to the very Adriatic Sea, which explains the wonderful climate on seaside resorts country. Here the current begins, washing then other countries of the Adriatic, and that is why the cleanest sea water is near the coast of Montenegro. The nature of Montenegro is so well preserved that it even received the status of "ecological country". Sandy and pebble beaches The Adriatic stretches for 73 km, and the "Velika Plaža" in Ulcinj has a length of 13 km.
On the only one southern Europe fjorde - the Bay of Kotor - is a resort with its own microclimate and therapeutic mud, which helps in the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The city located here with towers and palaces of the 7th - 8th centuries and ancient shipyards reminds of the historical ties between Montenegro and Russia. Peter the Great sent his future navigators to these shipyards for training, and one of the local Montenegrin sailors became a Russian admiral.
Another unique attraction of Montenegro is Skadar Lake, located below sea level and representing a true bird kingdom. Excursions to the canyon of the Tara River with a depth of 1300 meters and to the mountainous region of Lovcen with the mausoleum of Petar Petrovich Negosh, the spiritual leader and ruler of Montenegro, whose poems every Montenegrin knows by heart, are very interesting. stunning impression on Russian tourists produces the Ostrog Monastery with the relics of St. Basil of Ostrog, and in the wall of the Cetinje Monastery in the old capital is the embalmed hand of John the Baptist.
Montenegro is located 3 hours from Moscow by direct flight. Montenegrin resorts Just not far from the airport and lies in the sea is the same island hotel where celebrities such as Sophia Loren, Stallone, Claudia Schiffer and our ex-world champion Karpov rest. The vacationer receives the key to his room immediately at the entrance to the island, where the rooms and apartments of the highest "star" provide all imaginable types of services, but most importantly - the possibility of a quiet secluded holiday surrounded pristine nature. Not so expensive hotels are located, for example, in the resort, which was awarded the Grand Prix for the most best beaches in Europe. And you can have a royal rest at the resort, which was part of the territory at the palace of the Serbian royal family Karadjordjevics.
Republic of Montenegro is located on the Balkan Peninsula and is an integral part of the Commonwealth of Serbia and Montenegro. In 1991, Montenegro was proclaimed a country of pure, untouched and protected nature. Local unique nature is under state protection.
Climate
In northern Montenegro - temperate continental, on the Adriatic coast - Mediterranean. In the central regions of the country, it is always somewhat cooler than on the coast, and the influence of subalpine factors is more noticeable. In the coastal region, summer is usually long, hot (+23-25 C) and rather dry, winter is short and cool (+3-7 C). The mountainous regions have moderately warm summers (+19-25 C) and relatively cold (+5 to -10 C), snow-rich winters. Precipitation falls from 500 to 1500 mm per year, mainly in the form of rain; in the mountains near the sea coast, more than 3000 mm falls in places. In the northern regions of Montenegro, snow lies up to 5 months a year.
When is the best time to go to Montenegro
The best time to visit the country is from May to September-October. The tourist season in Montenegro usually starts in April and lasts until November. The sea temperature for seven months ranges from +20 C to +26 C, so the swimming season is equal in duration to the tourist one.
Montenegro belongs to the Central European time zone
Moscow +2 hours
Saint Petersburg+2 hours
Kiev +1 hour
Minsk +1 hour
The voltage used is 220 V. An adapter according to the European standard is required.
Economic and geographical position
Montenegro is a small country in southeastern Europe, located on the Adriatic coast. Balkan Peninsula. Montenegro also includes 14 islands.
Montenegro borders on:
- Bosnia and Herzegovina (northwest),
- Croatia (west)
- Serbia (northeast)
- Republic of Kosovo (east),
- Albania (southeast).
The Adriatic Sea washes Montenegro from the southwest.
The total territory of the country is 13.812 thousand square meters. km. The capital of Montenegro is Podgorica.
On the territory of the country there are: flat central regions, mountain ranges of the eastern part, coast Adriatic Sea.
In the north-west of Montenegro is the Bay of Kotor, in which major ports and famous beaches Montenegro. The main beaches are located on the Budva Riviera.
The highland region is located northeast of the rivers Komarnica, Piva, Moraca. In the highlands, the Dinaric Highlands are distinguished, formed by the mountain ranges Durmitor, Vizitor, Komov, Belasitsa, Sinyavina and Prokletie, or the Cursed Mountains. In the south are the karst mountains Orien, Rumia, Lovcen.
Mountain peaks (about 70) have a height of more than 2000 m. The highest point is Bobotov Kuk peak (2522 m) in the Durmitor massif.
A karst plateau rises above the Adriatic coast. Patches of fertile land are found on separate small plains and in crater-shaped craters.
The plain occupies less than 20% of the country's territory. The plain region (Chernogorsk Plain) with a height difference of 350 m consists of: the fertile plain of the Zeta River, the Belopavlitskaya Plain, the Skadar Lake basin, the Niksic field.
Remark 1
Ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy enterprises play an important role in the Montenegrin industry. The woodworking, machine-building, tobacco and food industries are developed. Agriculture is dominated by grain crops, viticulture, subtropical fruit growing, and mountain pasture animal husbandry.
Climatic conditions
Climatic conditions in different regions of the country differ significantly:
- the central foothill regions of the country - the climate is temperate continental, a lot of precipitation, mild winters and hot summers;
- the Adriatic coast - the climate is Mediterranean, short-term rains are characteristic (winter and spring), there is almost no precipitation in summer; winters are mild and summers are moderately hot;
- in mountain ranges - subalpine climate, severe mountain climate, characterized by cold winters and moderately warm summers.
The Adriatic coast is dominated by dry and hot summers with rainy and mild winters. average temperature in summer it is 25-26°C. In winter, the temperature does not fall below 7°C (Ulcin) and 9°C (Herceg Novia). The total number of hours of sunshine per year is 2700. In summer, the temperature sea water is 25-28°C.
In the central plains, temperatures drop to 5°C in winter and reach 27°C in summer.
Mountain regions are characterized by relatively cold winters (from −10 to +5°C) and moderately warm summers (19-25°C).
Remark 2
A large amount of precipitation is due to the presence of mountainous terrain and the proximity of the sea. The average annual rainfall, depending on the area, is from 500 to 1500 mm. In some parts, the annual rainfall can reach 3000 mm. In the mountains, the height of the snow cover is 1-3 m, snow here lies up to 5 months a year.
Natural resources
Water resources. The rivers of the country belong to the basins of the Danube and the Adriatic Sea. The largest and most significant rivers include the rivers: Tara, Lim, Cheotina, Moracha, Zeta, Boyana. Most rivers of mountainous origin flow in winding and deep canyons. largest freshwater lake Lake Skadar (369.7 sq. km.), located in a karst depression, and Lake Shas are the largest lakes in the country. Most mountain lakes are of glacial origin.
Minerals. The country is not rich in mineral resources. Only coal is present in sufficient quantities as strategic energy carriers. The country has developed deposits of aluminum ore, zinc (Šuplja-Stena, Brskovo, Mojkovac), lead, bauxite (Niksic). Oil and natural gas are imported from other countries.
Natural and recreational resources. The purest Adriatic Sea, mountain landscapes, mild climate make the area attractive for recreation and recreation. Mountain ranges are attractive for hiking, mountain climbing and ski slopes (in winter time). The water in the lakes is crystal clear. For the transparent greenish-blue color of the lake, it is often called "mountain eyes". Availability national parks and nature reserves provides favorable conditions for ecological tourism. On the Adriatic coast, the holiday season lasts from April to October.
Flora and fauna
Forests occupy more than 40% of the country's territory. Mostly coniferous and mixed forests.
In the territory Adriatic coast there are numerous palm trees, various cacti (some up to 5 meters high), oleanders and magnolia.
Bananas grow in Herceg Novi. From fruit plants, you can find pomegranates, kiwi, peaches, grapes, tangerines and oranges.
In the alpine meadows, many flowering, rare plants grow, in particular - edelweiss.
Skadar Lake is famous for water lilies, lilies and lotuses.
Large animals live in Montenegro: deer, elks, bears, fallow deer, wild boars, wolves, lynxes. There are martens, turtles.
The coast is rich in various species of fish, a lot of trout and carp. Many octopuses and squids live here. Mussels and oysters are grown in the Bay of Kotor.
The avifauna is represented by various bird species: pelicans, cormorants, herons, swans, black ibises. You can meet the golden eagle.
Almost 10% of the territory of Montenegro is occupied by nature reserves and national parks:
- Durmitor. UNESCO heritage. Huge species diversity of flora and fauna. Within the park are natural monuments: Tara river canyon, black lake, ice cave, invisible canyon.
- Biogradska mountain. Virgin forests, including unique ecosystems, a huge variety of plants.
- Lovcen. The park is represented by various landforms.
- Skadar lake. The largest wading bird reserve in Europe. There are many ancient fortresses and monasteries in the park.
Montenegro is located in southeastern Europe, on the Adriatic coast of the Balkan Peninsula. The name of the state comes from the toponym Black Mountain. The total area of the country is 13.8 thousand square meters. km. The capital of Montenegro is the city of Podgorica (former Titograd).
Montenegro is washed from the south by the Adriatic Sea. The state in the west borders on Croatia, in the northwest there are borders with Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the northeast - with Serbia, in the east - with Kosovo with Albania in the southeast.
The total length of the land borders of the state is 614 km. With the Republic of Croatia - 14 km, with Bosnia and Herzegovina - 225 km, with the Republic of Serbia and Kosovo - 203 km, with the Republic of Albania - 172 km.
Until June 2006, Montenegro was part of the confederal State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. The country occupied 13.5% of its total area. Montenegro gained independence on June 3, 2006.
The territory of the country conditionally consists of three parts: the coast of the Adriatic Sea, the relatively flat central part of the country, and mountain systems east of the country. In the central part of the country are two of its most major cities– Podgorica and Nikisic.
The continental coastline of Montenegro stretches for almost 300 km. The state consists of 14 sea islands. The length of the coastline of these islands is 15.6 km. Located in the northwest of Montenegro large bay called Boka Kotorska, which crashes into land for 29.6 km. Its water surface area is 87.3 km².
The total length of the beaches of Montenegro is 73 km, the transparency of sea water in some places exceeds 35 m.
There are many rivers on the territory of Montenegro. About 52.2% of the country's rivers belong to the Black Sea basin, the remaining 47.8% belong to the Adriatic Sea basin. The longest of them are: Tara (144 km), Lim (123 km), Ceotina (100 km), Moraca (99 km), Zeta (65 km) and Bojana (30 km).
Three Montenegrin rivers (Moraca, Zeta and Piva) flow throughout the country throughout their entire length. The Boyana River used to be the only navigable river in the country. Currently, it is no longer navigable.
Almost all the rivers of the country are mountainous, they form fairly deep canyons. The Tara River Canyon is considered the deepest in Europe and the second deepest in the world. Its depth is about 1200 meters.
The famous Skadar Lake is the most large lake not only the country, but also the entire Balkan Peninsula. The total area of its water surface is 369.7 km². Two thirds of the territory of this lake belongs to Montenegro, and one third belongs to Albania.
The second largest lake in Montenegro is Lake Shasskoe, with an area of 3.64 km². The lake is located near Ulcinj. There are also 29 small mountain lakes of glacial origin on the territory of the country. Their total area is 3.89 km².
The territory of Montenegro is mountainous. The highest point of the country is Mount Bobotov-Kuk (Durmitor mountain range). Its height is 2522 m. The areas adjacent to the Adriatic coast are located in the zone of narrow coastal plains, which are interrupted by mountain spurs and rocky capes.
Montenegro is one of the most popular tourist destinations Europe. Montenegro is mountains and plains, dense forests, crystal clear waters of the Adriatic, mountain rivers and picturesque lakes, piercingly clean air, as well as beautiful ancient cities, where different styles and cultures are so harmoniously combined, thereby creating a unique flavor and atmosphere of comfort. stunning natural resources this beautiful country, a wonderful climate, an abundance of historical, architectural and cultural attractions, combined with affordable prices, attract an increasing number of tourists to this little paradise.
Lord George Byron wrote about Montenegro:
“At the moment of the birth of our planet, the most beautiful meeting of land and sea took place in Montenegro… When the pearls of nature were sown, a whole handful fell on this land…”
The Republic of Montenegro covers the southwestern, coastal part of the Balkan Peninsula. In the west, Montenegro borders on Croatia, in the northwest - on Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the north, northeast and east - on Serbia, in the southeast - on Albania. The population of Montenegro is about 650,000 people. The Montenegrin coast has a coastal part with a length of 293 km, along the coast there are 14 islands with 15.6 km. coastline. 
Budva is a city in Montenegro, located in the central part of the Adriatic coast of the country. The city is the center of the municipal district of the same name. Budva was founded 2500 years ago, is one of the most ancient settlements on the shores of the Adriatic Sea. 
Budva and its environs form the Budva Riviera - the largest tourist center in Montenegro, famous for its sandy beaches, nightlife and fine examples of Mediterranean architecture. 
Most of the historical monuments are concentrated in the Old Town of Budva. Located on a peninsula that protrudes sharply into the sea, it is a corner of typical Venetian and Mediterranean architecture. Despite the devastating effects of the 1979 earthquake, by 1987 the Old City had been completely restored. The old city is surrounded by a powerful fortress wall and pierced by narrow winding streets that lead to the city citadel, where the museum is now located. Near the citadel there are three ancient churches. 
A beautiful and graceful sculpture of a dancer, located on a rocky stone near Mogren Beach, has become an unofficial symbol of the city. This is the most famous and photographed landmark of Budva. This monument, according to legend, is associated with a romantic legend, and has become a symbol of true love, near which romantic natures like to be photographed and make wishes. 
Fortress walls 
The fortress walls of Budva from the sea 
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (founded in the 7th century), with a bell tower - the architectural dominant of the old city. 
The Church of the Holy Trinity (built in 1804) is an Orthodox church built in a typical Byzantine style. characteristic feature is the bell tower "on a spinning wheel" with three bells. The facade of the church above the western gate is decorated with a rosette. A Greek icon painter painted the iconostasis of this church in the 19th century, and it is of exceptional artistic value. 
Budva Citadel (city fortress Kastel), built on a hill on the south side of the city. This is where the city walls begin and end. The fortress was first mentioned in 1425. 
Old town Budva 
Not far from Budva, within line of sight, is the island of St. Nicholas, one of the few islands off the coast of Montenegro. 
Marina for yachts and boats near the Old Town of Budva 
Budva is surrounded by beaches, most of which are either coarse sand or small pebbles. 
Ostrog Monastery is one of the most amazing and wonderful places in Montenegro. This is recognized by everyone who has visited it at least once. Carved into a sheer cliff at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level, the monastery is the embodiment of purity, fortitude and true faith, for which nothing is impossible. Due to its unique architecture and location, Ostrog, like a guiding star in the dark sky, is always clearly visible from afar, day and night. Looking at it, sometimes it begins to seem that the construction of such a temple cannot be the work of human hands, but is the result of divine providence. 
Today Ostrog is a functioning Serbian Orthodox monastery in Montenegro, located in the mountains 15 km from the city of Danilovgrad, at an altitude of about 900 m above sea level. Founded in the 17th century. The monastery houses the relics of its founder, Saint Basil of Ostrog, one of the most revered saints of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The imperishable relics of St. Basil of Ostrog are still kept in one of the monastery churches, becoming one of the main Montenegrin relics. These relics are believed to have miraculous healing powers. 
It is believed that this is the third most visited place of pilgrimage for the Orthodox in the world, after the tomb of Christ and the holy mountain in Jerusalem. Ostrog is the only Orthodox active monastery, where not only Christians, but also followers of other religions come for pilgrimage purposes. 
Old Austrian fortress Kosmach. This fortress is perfectly visible from the highway Budva - Cetinje. The Kosmach fortress was built by the Austrians as a defensive structure on the border with Montenegro, which was then a semi-autonomous province. Ottoman Empire, in 1841-50. It is located on the top of Kosmach hill (hence its name). The fortress was a key one in the chain of border fortresses of Austria-Hungary. 
Sveti Stefan is a resort in Montenegro, located on the Adriatic coast, on the Budva Riviera, 5 kilometers southeast of Budva. Located on a small island, an isthmus between land and a natural island, appeared as a result of alluvial gravel layers. A very rare natural phenomenon. The island is closed to non-guests. The village of the same name adjacent to the island has a tourist infrastructure, and apartment prices, although higher than the average in Montenegro, are much more affordable than in a hotel on the island. 
For the first time the fortress was mentioned in the chronicles of 1442, when the inhabitants of the local village of Petrovichi met the Ottomans, who were trying to capture Kotor. After the victory, it was decided to erect a church and a fortress in honor of St. Stephen. Sveti Stefan was an important trading center and transport hub during the times of the Venetian Republic. Sveti Stefan was inhabited in the 15th century and for a long time represented a simple fishing village. Because of economic crisis the city began to fall into decay. In the 1950s, 20 residents were relocated to the mainland, and Sveti Stefan turned into a luxurious hotel town. During the reconstruction, the appearance of the buildings, which number about 80, was not damaged. Holidays in Sveti Stefan were popular among many celebrities: at one time, the guests of the resort were Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, Claudia Schiffer, Carlo Ponti, Kirk Douglas, Bobby Fischer, Sylvester Stallone other. 
Sveti Stefan Island is one of the most expensive resorts in Montenegro. There are 58 luxurious apartments here, including 8 in the world-famous Villa Milocer. The beaches on the island are about 2 kilometers long and consist of beautiful pink sand. The island is connected to the land by a small isthmus of gravel washed in layers, which in itself unique phenomenon- the isthmus is of natural, not artificial origin. 
Here is the cleanest sea in all of Europe and beaches with dark gray sand or the smallest pebbles. 
The Bay of Kotor is considered one of the most beautiful bays world and confidently ranks first among the most beautiful bays in Europe. Previously, it was even believed that the Bay of Kotor is the southernmost fjord in Europe. In fact, this is not so, but the landscapes are really very similar. 
Kotor is a city in Montenegro, the administrative center of the Kotor municipality. Located on the shores of the Bay of Kotor of the Adriatic Sea. Historically, Kotor and the surrounding lands belong to the region of Dalmatia. The old part of the city is under the protection of UNESCO. Kotor is the administrative, cultural, religious, educational and economic center of Boka Kotorska. Throughout the history of Kotor and the Bay of Kotor, the main occupation of the locals was navigation and overseas trade. Therefore, Kotor became one of the most important shopping centers this part of the Adriatic coast. 
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in Kotor Cathedral Kotor Catholic Diocese. The Cathedral of St. Tryphon has become the center of the spiritual life of the local Croats, who historically make up a significant part of the population of Kotor. This is one of the two Catholic cathedrals in Montenegro, along with the cathedral Immaculate Conception Virgin Mary, located in the city of Bar. The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, despite numerous reconstructions, is an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture. The cathedral building was consecrated on July 19, 1166 in the name of St. Tryphon, who is considered the patron saint of Kotor. The building faced many trials; one of the most difficult moments in the history of the temple was the catastrophic earthquake of 1667. Its consequences were the destruction of part of the building, as a result of which both bell towers of the cathedral had to be rebuilt. Built of stone from the now Croatian island of Korcula, they acquired some baroque features. Between themselves, they were connected by a wide arch dividing the facade of the building horizontally. On the upper part of the facade there is a fairly large rose window, the arch forms a portico located directly above the entrance to the cathedral. Saint Tryphon Cathedral is part of the facility world heritage"Natural and cultural-historical region of Kotor". 
In the northern part of old Kotor there is another building that attracts the attention of not only ordinary tourists, but also those who are interested in the history of Orthodoxy - this is the Church of St. Nicholas. The construction of the church began in 1902 on the foundation of a burned-out building, construction was completed in 1909 - the date of completion of construction is imprinted on the facade of the building. The well-known architect Choril Ivekovich worked on the design of the temple. Built in the Byzantine style, with one nave, with two bell towers on the main facade, the church is remarkably visible from the city wall, which adjoins it closely. The Church of St. Nicholas is the only Orthodox church in Kotor, in which divine services are performed daily. 
The Old Town of Kotor is rightfully considered one of the best preserved medieval urban centers on the Adriatic, included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. From 1420 to 1797 Kotor and its surroundings were under the control of the Republic of Venice and the Venetian influence remained dominant in the architecture of the city. The city walls were continuously built and rebuilt from the 9th to the 19th centuries. The walls surround Old city and climb a rocky hill, on the slope of which Kotor is located. Their length is 4.5 kilometers, the height reaches 20 meters, and the thickness is 16 meters. On top of a hill at an altitude of 260 meters above sea level - the fortress of St. John 
The fortress of Kotor is one of the unique sights. The construction of the citadel was begun by the Romans, destroying the foundation and walls that the Illyrians had previously erected here. The Byzantines were the next to capture this strategically important bay: they destroyed the already dilapidated citadel and built a new one in its place. Further, the Kotor citadel was influenced by many different invaders. The Byzantines were replaced by the Arabs in the middle of the 9th century, followed by the Bulgarians, the Venetians and the Serbs. During the period of Venetian rule (15-17 centuries), the Ottomans tried to besiege the fortress. In the 18th century the fortifications went to the Habsburgs, and at the beginning of the 19th century. - The French Empire. True, France did not have time to bring anything of its own to the appearance of the fortress: in 1814, the British occupied the fortress. By decision of the Congress of Vienna, Kotor again returned to the fold of the Austrian Empire. In 1979, the fortress was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. 
The fortress walls protect the old city from the north and southwest. Their length is 4.5 km, thickness - from 2 to 16 m, and height - 20 m. Amazing power! But the main reason why most tourists want to get here is 1460! steps (someone counted). To climb to the top of the mountain, directly to the fortress itself, they must be overcome. And the path is thorny and long: the first part is the green path (simple), the second is yellow (medium difficulty), the third is red (the most difficult and dangerous). Some steps are destroyed, in some places the road goes right over the cliff. 
View of the fortress walls of the city from the side of the river. 
Perast - old City in Montenegro. Located on the shores of the Bay of Kotor on the Adriatic Sea, a few kilometers northwest of Kotor. Perast lies at the foot of the hill of St. Elias (873 m), on a cape that separates the Risan Bay from the Bay of Kotor (which, in turn, are constituent parts of the Bay of Kotor), directly opposite the Verige Strait, the narrowest part of Boka. 
The name of the city is believed to come from the name of the Illyrian tribe of Pirusts. In the Spila cave above Perast, traces of the Neolithic culture (about 3500 BC) were found. Various archaeological evidences from the Illyrian, Roman and early Christian periods have also been found here. Founded by the Illyrians. Despite its small size, Perast is very popular among tourists as it is one of the most beautiful examples of baroque architecture on the Adriatic coast. Each house in the city, and there are not so few of them, is like a real museum, and the surrounding beauties of the bay give Perast even more charm. According to the 2003 census, the city has 349 inhabitants 
There are two small islands near Perast: the Island of St. George and the Island of Gospa od Shkrpela 
One of the islands is called the island of St. George, it has a picturesque Benedictine abbey, which was first mentioned in 1166 as the property of the city of Kotor. The study of the few surviving fragments of the original architectural decoration led to the conclusion that the abbey existed at least as early as the 9th century. The island remained a Kotor possession until 1634, when the patronage over it passed to the Venetian Senate. The island was constantly under the threat of invasions and earthquakes. In 1535, the citizens of Perast killed abbot Pascal, who was elected by the city council of Kotor (as a sign of repentance, the Perastians rebuilt and expanded the church on the neighboring island). In 1571, the Turkish pirate Karadoz burned down both the abbey and the whole of Perast (restoration began only in 1603). During the Great Earthquake on April 6, 1667, the abbey on the island of St. George was again destroyed. In 1812, the abbey was captured by the French, who were later expelled by the townspeople of Perast. In 1814 the abbey was captured by the Austrians. The abbey houses works of the 15th century by Lovro Marinov Dobrichevich, a famous painter from Kotor. 
Another island is called "Gospa od Shkrpela" (Italian: Madonna dello Scarpello, which means "Madonna on the Reef" or "Mother of God on the Rock" (from the Latin "scropulus" - "reef"). Gospa od Shkrpela is perhaps the only man-made island of the Adriatic and is located 115 meters northwest of the island of St. George.It was built on top of a reef after in 1452 two sailors from Perast, the brothers Morteshichi, found on it an icon of the Mother of God, which cured one of them from an illness "After that, the icon immediately became revered. Initially, the reef was only slightly above the surface of the water, but for 200 years the townspeople flooded captured pirate ships and their old ships next to it (in addition, a law was passed according to which every ship passing by the reef had to here throw a stone to the bottom.) This is how a plateau was created, the area of which is 3030 m². 
The Church of the Mother of God was built on the island (it took its modern form after the reconstruction undertaken after the Great Earthquake on April 6, 1667). The church was built in the Byzantine style and reaches 11 meters in height. It is believed that the inhabitants of Perast built the church not only because they wanted to see the Virgin Mary as the patroness of their sailors, but also to consolidate their power over the man-made island, as opposed to the power of Kotor over the island of St. George. At the end of the 17th century, Perast reached the pinnacle of economic and cultural development, which helped decorate the Church of Our Lady on the Rock with many works of art. So, Andria Zmaevich invited Tripo Kokolya to decorate it, who spent about 10 years to complete the painting of the church. For centuries, the church received gifts from wealthy citizens and ship captains, and now is not only a temple, but also a treasury and art gallery. There are 68 oil paintings here. On the walls of the church you can see 2500 gold and silver "votive" plates, which the inhabitants of Boka Kotorska donated to the church "in fulfillment of this vow" for getting rid of various disasters. 
The canyons of the Tara and Moraca rivers are the most amazing corner Montenegro. In our opinion, this excursion is considered the most interesting in Montenegro. For almost fourteen hours we traveled by bus along the winding Montenegrin serpentines. Flying to Montenegro and not going to see the canyons is almost the same as never going to the beach. In the photo - Canyon of the Moraca River. 
Truly amazing mountain landscapes and fantastic views of the rivers running somewhere far below opened up around every turn. Well, what can we say - the nature in Montenegro is simply amazing. 
Biogradsko Lake is often called the heart of the Biogradska Gora National Park - it really is central part and the most attractive destination for tourists visiting the region. This unique nature reserve, one of the most beautiful lakes of the entire Balkan Peninsula, is able to give a lot of pleasant impressions from the dense forests surrounding it, clean mountain air and clear blue water, which have remained unchanged for several centuries. 
Biogradsko Lake is located in an intermountain basin of glacial origin at an altitude of 1,094 m above sea level. It is the largest of the 6 lakes scattered throughout the Biogradska Gora National Park. The surface area is 228,500 m², average depth- 4.5 m, and the maximum - 12.1 m. The Lavel stream, the Biogradskaya river flow into the lake. The river Jezerstica, which is a tributary of the Tara, flows out of Lake Biograd. 
Montenegro is famous for its many beautiful places. One of them is the Tara River Canyon, the deepest in Europe and the second in the world after the Grand Canyon! Around - beautiful mountains, gorges and waterfalls. The length of this miracle of nature is 82 km, in some places the height of the walls reaches more than 1300 meters. 
Huge massive mountains seem to hang overhead. 
One of the most beautiful places Tara Canyon - the bend of the river. In this place, it bends in the form of a huge horseshoe. 
The canyon is located between the mountains of Sinyaevina and Durmitor on the one hand, and Lubishnya and Zlatni Bor on the other, being part of the Durmitor National Park. The territory of the canyon with Durmitor Park is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. 
It is simply impossible to tell about the number of amazing landscapes that we managed to see. Not a single photo in any way conveys the fantastic beauty of this place; any description seems faded in comparison with reality. 
The Dzhurzhevich Bridge is a concrete arched bridge across the Tara River in the northern part of Montenegro. Located at the crossroads between the cities of Mojkovac, Zabljak and Pljevlja. The Dzhurdzhevich Bridge got its name from the name of the owner of the farm, which is located nearby. The Dzhurdzhevich Bridge was designed by Miyat Troyanovich. It was built between 1937 and 1940 in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. The chief project engineer is Isaac Russo. The 5-arch bridge has a length of 365 meters, the length of the largest span is 116 meters. The height of the carriageway of the bridge from the Tara River is 172 meters. At the time of its completion, it was the largest vehicular concrete arch bridge in Europe. The bridge became calling card country. 
Yugoslav partisans in 1942, with the help of one of the bridge construction engineers, Lazar Yaukovich, blew up the central arch, while retaining the rest of the spans. The explosion of the longest span destroyed the only crossing of the Tara River Canyon in the area, which led to a halt in the advance of Italian troops in this part of Montenegro. The Italians became so angry that they were specifically looking for Lazar Yaukovich, and in the end he was captured and shot. The monument to the engineer stands at the entrance to the bridge. These events were depicted in the 1969 Yugoslav film The Bridge and the British film Hurricane from Navarone. The bridge was rebuilt in 1946. They constantly come to him sightseeing buses. For everyone on the Dzhurdzhevich bridge, there is a campsite with a parking lot, a shop, a hostel and a gas station. 
From the bridge of Dzhurdzhevich a magnificent view opens up. Feeling like you're floating in the air. There is a huge abyss under your feet and somewhere far below the waves of Tara are seething. 
Around the mountains, cliffs, forest, clean air ... the joy in the soul from this beauty is extraordinary! 
national park Durmitor is a real miracle of nature in Montenegro. Ancient forests, mountains, lakes, rivers and alpine meadows spread over a vast area. Somewhere here small villages are lost, people in which live almost the same as they did many hundreds of years ago, without changing the centuries-old way of life. Durmitor is surely included in the list of the most interesting sights of Montenegro. The Durmitor National Park, established in 1952, includes the Durmitor mountain range, the canyons of the Tara, Sushitsa and Draga rivers, as well as the upper part of the Komarnitsa plateau. The total area is 390 km². In 1980 it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. 
Some believe that the word "durmitor" comes from the Celtic language and means - "mountains in which there are many waters", others - that from Latin this word means "sleeping, immersed in eternal sleep." During the ice age, everything here was covered with ice, and with the advent of the thaw, many beautiful mountain lakes formed. There are about 18 of them; the most famous of them is the Black Lake (“Crno Jezero”), which locals nicknamed "black eyes", because. a large lake flows through the isthmus into a small lake and forms a kind of eye. 
In addition to lakes, Durmitor is famous for its mountain peaks, some of which are covered with snow even in summer. The most high point mountain range- Bobotov Cook; its height is 2523 m. This Peak has a strange but euphonious name and is said to represent the highest mountain peak in the Republic of Montenegro. This is one of 48 peaks with heights of more than 2000 meters, located on the territory of the Durmitor mountain range. 
The Black Lake is comfortably located at the foot of the Bobotov Kuk mountain at an altitude of 1416 m. Its area is 516 m². The water in the lake is of high purity and transparency, it can be drunk without fear. The water in the lake is so clear that it can be seen to a depth of 9 meters. In fact, it consists of two small reservoirs - Big and Small, connected by a narrow strait. Among other things, the Black Lake is also very beautiful - a dense coniferous forest is reflected in its calm waters, which gives the reservoir a rich blue-green color. 
Durmitor is the embodiment of a real fairy tale. There are also icy lakes, and spacious meadows strewn with a variety of flowers, and thickets of dense coniferous forests, where you can always hear the birds singing and see squirrels jumping along the branches. 
The terrain of Montenegro does not favor the appearance of wide, even autobahns - most of the country is covered with mountains and hills, along which narrow serpentines and mountain roads. These very roads in Montenegro, in the mountains, are a real test for the driver and passengers - a lot of extreme impressions from the trip are guaranteed! 
Skadar Lake is one of the main attractions of Montenegro. Lake Skadar or Shkoder is the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula. It is located on the territory of two states Montenegro and Albania, 2/3 of the lake belongs to Montenegro. In 1983, Skadar Lake became a national park, this place is very beautiful, rich in fish and a huge number of birds, and there are numerous small villages on the coast. This is the largest natural freshwater reservoir in the entire Balkan Peninsula - its average area is 475 square kilometers! 
Lake reeds, southern reeds and narrow-leaved cattails, white water lilies, yellow water pods and chillim grow on the lake. The lake is rich in fish and waterfowl. Bleaks, carp, podust, freshwater eels, noble salmon, roach, shad, pachychilons, mullet and rudd are common. Birds are represented by at least 26 species. In winter, more than 200 thousand birds live on the lake. 
The area of the water surface of the lake is about 390 km², but can increase to 530 km² during winter floods. On average, the area is 475 km². The total length of the coast is 168 km: 110.5 km in Montenegro and 57.5 km in Albania. The maximum depth of the lake is more than 60 meters, the average is 6 m. 
The climate in the lake area is Mediterranean, with mild and rainy winters. The average January temperature is 7.3°C. Summer is dry and hot, the air is heated above 40 °C, the water is above 27 °C 
Skadar lake has rich history and culture, as evidenced by numerous archaeological finds, medieval monasteries and churches, fortresses and local architecture (fishing settlements, bridges, mills and wells). On the lake islands, of which there are only 55, and on the shore, near the lake, there are many interesting historical sights and monuments, including ancient churches and active monasteries (Vranina, Starchevo, Beshka, Morachnik and others). 
The lake has been a protected National Park since 1983 and in 1996 was included in the List of Wetlands of International Importance under the 1971 Ramsar Convention. 
Cetinje Monastery - Orthodox Monastery of the Nativity Holy Mother of God in the historical and spiritual capital of Montenegro, the city of Cetinje. The monastery was built in 1484. The main shrine, which is kept in the monastery, is the imperishable right hand of St. John the Baptist. This is one of the most revered shrines of the Christian world, since according to the Bible, John the Baptist laid his right hand on the head of Jesus Christ during Baptism. 
Church of the Nativity of the Virgin on Chipur. 
The village of Negushi is quiet, quiet place, which is located on the slope of Mount Lovcen at an altitude of 900 m above sea level in the municipality of the city of Cetinje. Now the village has turned into a real tourist town, in which there are no more than 50 houses and about 200 people live. This settlement is known for the fact that it produces the famous throughout Montenegro Negush prosciutto (dried pork ham), as well as famous homemade cheeses and natural mountain honey. Here you can also see how this meat is produced, buy it as a souvenir or try prosciutto in local taverns. The fact is that it is here that nature itself created ideal conditions for the manufacture of prosciutto - a cool climate and mountain air, which mixes with the sea. This is what gives the unique flavor of Njegusi prosciutto. 
Montenegro is very rich in the most amazing sights. Here you can see not only magnificent natural landscapes, but also ancient churches, temples, fortresses. Even the most successful photographs in no way convey the beauty that we will remember for a lifetime. No wonder Vladimir Semyonovich Vysotsky wrote: "One birth is not enough for me, I would grow from two roots, It's a pity that Montenegro did not become my second homeland ..."
The explorer of the World Ocean Jacques-Yves Cousteau considered the coast of the Adriatic Sea, washing the coast of Montenegro, one of the cleanest in Europe. Along with ordinary tourists, this mountainous country is also preferred by such celebrities as Bill Gates, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Today, Montenegro - unique reserve, a place where civilization harmoniously coexists with untouched nature, where the sea sparkles, medieval buildings peep through the greenery of the mountains and flowers are everywhere!
Geographical position of Montenegro
Montenegro is located in the central part of the Mediterranean, in the southwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula. It borders Croatia to the north, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the northwest, Serbia to the northeast, and Albania to the southeast. The length of the coastline is 293 km. The length of the beaches is 73 km. The part of the Adriatic Sea between Montenegro and Southern Italy is the widest (200 km) and deepest (1330 m). Area: 13812 sq. km (0.14% of the whole of Europe).
Capital
Podgorica (173 thousand people) is the administrative center of the Republic of Montenegro. Cetinje - ancient capital, historical and cultural center.
Climate in Montenegro
The diversity of the relief greatly affects the climate. Giant Mountain chain closes the coast northern winds. Therefore, the Mediterranean climate prevails at sea, and continental in the mountains. The average annual air temperature in Montenegro is +17°C, and in July and August +29°C. The swimming season in Montenegro begins in April and lasts until November. The sea temperature for seven months ranges from +20 to +26°C.
Population
620 thousand people (as of spring 2011). Montenegrins 62%, Bosnians 13%, Serbs 9%, Albanians 7%
State structure
Republic of Montenegro
Language in Montenegro
Serbian (alphabet - Cyrillic and Latin). All Montenegrins perfectly understand Russian.
Religion in Montenegro
Montenegrins and Serbs profess Orthodoxy, national minorities - Catholicism and Islam.
Customs
You can import and export an unlimited amount of foreign currency into the country, but it is advisable to declare large amounts at the entrance. It should be noted that border and customs procedures are simplified as much as possible. You can import and export duty-free 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, a liter of spirits and 2 liters of wine. The export of objects and things of historical and artistic value is prohibited - without special permission.
Car rent
To rent a car in Montenegro, you need to be at least 21 years old, have a driving experience of at least two years (plus, of course, an international certificate), and leave a deposit of 150-300 euros. Speed - 40 km / h - in settlements, 70 km / h - on the highway, 120 km / h - on the autobahn.
Money in Montenegro
Euro. 1 euro = 100 cents.
The work of banks
On working days from 08:00 - 19:00, on Saturday from 08:00 - 15:00
Telephone code of Serbia and Montenegro
Required phones
Police - 92, fire department - 93, ambulance-94, roadside assistance - 987. Codes of some cities: Herceg Novi and Igalo - 88, Budva, Becici, Petrovac, Milocer and Sveti Stefan - 86, Bar, Sutomore, Ulcinj, Ada-Boyana - 85, Tivat - 82
mobile connection
Works in the GSM standard, so you can use roaming. But it is more convenient and more profitable to buy a card from one of the local operators - Pro Monte or Monet. There is no noticeable difference between them, express payment cards for account replenishment are sold in any mini-market.
ElectricityNational parks
Durmitor (39.000 ha), Lovcen (6.400 ha), Biogradska Gora (5.400 ha). World natural and cultural heritage are under the protection of UNESCO.
Beach
The beaches in Montenegro are some of the best in the world, and thanks to their diversity, you can choose a vacation by the sea for every taste. Here there are areas with fine sand (Ulcinj Riviera, Budva Riviera), while most (Zhanits, Nivic, Sutomore) - with very small pebbles, the size of buckwheat. Artificial beaches (concrete platform) are located in Tivat, Herceg Novi, Bar, Igalo. There are very crowded beaches, but there are secluded ones, there are beaches for "textile workers" and for nudists, there are paid and free ones. Almost all beaches are located in secluded bays between steep cliffs, closed from the wind and waves. The length of the sea coast of Montenegro is 299 km, and the length of the beaches is 73 km. Renting umbrellas and sunbeds will cost 5-7 EUR per day. Guests of 4-5 star hotels, as a rule, use umbrellas and sunbeds for free. The largest beach ("Velika Plaža") is located in Ulcinj, its length is 13 km.
Cuisine of Montenegro
Local cuisine is divided into 3 types - purely local, fish and Italian. Portions are huge. Despite the proximity of the Adriatic Sea, fish cuisine in Montenegro is very expensive. Local cuisine - "fairy tale" of pork or beef. The cost of a dinner with wine for 2 persons varies from 12 to 20 euros. If this is a fish dish, then the cost of lunch will be from 20 to 30 euros. In many Montenegrin restaurants, after the third visit to the restaurant, guests for the fourth time can be fed at the expense of the institution.
The shops
Department stores and supermarkets are open daily from 06:00 to 21:00. Other shops from 09:00 to 21:00. V tourist centers almost all shops are open until 23:00, and some are open on Sunday. With souvenirs in the country "tension", the whole selection - national costumes and hats (rather expensive and purely decorative), T-shirts with a map of the country and the inscription Montenegro, bottles, plates and various handmade wooden utensils, lace, musical instruments (psaltery, pipes), icons (reproductions) - mainly at monasteries, painting and sculpture.
Safety
The crime rate in Montenegro is relatively low. There are petty thefts from cars parked in unguarded parking lots. The attitude towards foreigners is very friendly. V tourist areas you can safely be in the evening. A large number of Albanians live in the mountainous and border regions. Visiting such places, especially where tourism is poorly developed, is not recommended without local accompaniment. You must follow basic precautions and listen to the recommendations of your guide.
Transport
All cities and major settlements interconnected by bus. During the tourist season, bus stations operate around the clock. Buses to Belgrade regularly leave from Podgorica. In Herceg Novi and other cities on the coast there is a bus service to Croatia. From Ulcinj, a bus leaves once a day for the city of Shkoder in Albania. There is almost no intracity bus service in Montenegro, except for Podgorica. Short distances allow you to walk, ride a cheap taxi.
Souvenirs and shopping
As a keepsake, you can buy national costumes and hats (rather expensive and purely decorative), T-shirts with a map of the country and the inscription Montenegro, bottles, plates and various handmade wooden dishes, lace, musical instruments (psaltery, pipes), reproductions of famous icons (in mainly at monasteries), painting and sculpture.
sights
It is in Montenegro that the largest lake in the Balkans is located - Skadar. 40 islands betray its special charm, some of them have perfectly preserved medieval fortresses and monasteries. By the way, Lake Skadar is one of the few places where you can watch pelicans in their natural habitat.
In the Cetinje Monastery there are two of the most important Orthodox shrines - a particle of the Holy Life-Giving Cross of the Lord, on which Jesus Christ was crucified, and the right hand of the prophet John the Baptist.
