Table of Contents

- Introduction

- Overview of Our Lady of the Rocks

- Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks

- Exploring the Church and Museum

- Nearby Attractions

- Practical Tips for Visitors

- Frequently Asked Questions

- References and Further Reading

Introduction

Our Lady of the Rocks is an artificial island located in the Bay of Kotor, near Perast, Montenegro. I visited this unique site earlier this year, it is home to a picturesque church and museum. Despite being small enough to explore in just 30 minutes (including the boat rides there and back), the monastery, its history and beautiful views make it a rewarding place to visit. The island offers visitors a glimpse into Montenegro's cultural and maritime heritage, and is just down the road from Kotor.

The videos and images in this short guide are my own. Please note, I have used stock images for inside the church as they charge 3 euros (cash only) to go inside, and I only had cards at the time

Our Lady of the Rocks

Overview of Our Lady of the Rocks:

Location and Geography:

Our Lady of the Rocks is situated in the incredible Bay of Kotor, a few hundred metres off the coast of Perast, Montenegro. This islet is nestled in one of the most stunning natural harbours in the Adriatic Sea - probably the world to be fair. The island offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the town of Perast, making it an easily accessible and scenic spot for visitors.

Historical Significance:

The church of Our Lady of the Rocks has a history that dates back to the 15th century. According to legend, sailors found an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the bay on July 22, 1452. In gratitude for their safe return, they began to create the island by scuttling old ships and laying rocks around the site. Over the centuries, this tradition continued, and the island gradually grew in size.

Built-in 1632 and renovated in 1722, the church holds significant cultural and religious importance, particularly for the local Catholic community. Despite Montenegro being predominantly Orthodox Christians, Our Lady of the Rocks stands as a symbol of faith and resilience for the region. Inside the church, visitors can admire a collection of 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a renowned Baroque artist from Perast, along with a tapestry embroidered by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović, who used her hair to complete the work. This rich history and cultural significance make Our Lady of the Rocks an important part of the local heritage.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks:

How to Get There:

Reaching Our Lady of the Rocks is straightforward and is a cool experience in itself. The most common way to visit the island is by boat. Regular boat tours depart from Perast, a short ride away, making it the easiest and quickest option. These tours typically run throughout the day.

When I visited, I drove to Perast and parking was free if I purchased a boat road to see the monastery. Initially, they asked for 25 euros for a boat ride, but I only had 15 euros which they then accepted, bearing in mind Montenegro’s rough past and its maturing tourism industry you can excuse this to some extent, although it would be better to have a set price. Still, I believe it is somewhat cheaper than official tours to the island. The boat ride took just 3-5 minutes, and was a highlight of its own, as you can see from my video below. I think you can easily negotiate boat prices, especially if you have a family or group of people.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Our Lady of the Rocks is during late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner compared to the peak summer months. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can also provide a more serene experience, avoiding the busiest times of the day.

Entrance Fees and Hours:

Our Lady of the Rocks is open to visitors throughout the year. The island and church can be visited daily, generally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though hours may vary slightly depending on the season.

There is a modest entrance fee to visit the church and museum, typically around 3 euros. This fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the site. Additionally, there is a 1 euro charge to use the toilet on the island although it is a bit ropey to be honest.

Exploring the Church and Museum:

Church Interior:

The interior of the church of Our Lady of the Rocks is a beautiful display of Baroque artistry and religious devotion. When entering, visitors are immediately struck by the ornate main altar, which features an icon of the Virgin Mary, central to the church's legend. The altar, crafted from marble and gold leaf, and serves as the focal point of the church.

Notable artworks include a collection of 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a renowned Baroque artist from Perast. These paintings, dating back to the 17th century, depict various scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints. The church also boasts intricate frescoes on its ceilings and walls, illustrating religious themes which add to the atmosphere. One particularly unique piece is the tapestry embroidered by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović, who used her own hair to complete the work over a period of 25 years. This personal and moving artefact stands as a testament to the devotion of the local community.

Museum Exhibits:

The museum, located adjacent to the church, houses an impressive collection of maritime artefacts, tablets, and historical documents, offering a comprehensive insight into the region's nautical heritage and the church's significance.

Key exhibits include models of historic ships, navigational instruments, and a range of tablets donated by sailors who survived perilous journeys, expressing their gratitude to the Virgin Mary. These tablets provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives and struggles of seafarers from centuries past.

Historical documents on display detail the construction and expansion of the island and church, as well as records of the fašinada tradition. The museum also features a variety of religious artefacts, including vestments, chalices, and relics, further illustrating the rich history and cultural significance of Our Lady of the Rocks.

Our Lady of the Rocks Monastery

Nearby Attractions:

Perast:

A visit to Our Lady of the Rocks is incomplete without exploring the nearby town of Perast. This town boasts historical sites such as the Church of St. Nicholas, with its panoramic bell tower views, and the Perast Museum, which showcases the town’s maritime history. Strolling through Perast’s picturesque streets reveals its well-preserved Baroque architecture and Venetian influence.

Bay of Kotor:

The Bay of Kotor, often called Europe's southernmost fjord, is full of attractions. Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its medieval fortifications, winding streets, and historic churches. Climbing the Kotor Fortress offers breathtaking views of the bay. Other highlights include the Maritime Museum of Montenegro and the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon.

Other Islands:

Nearby St. George Island, just across from Our Lady of the Rocks, features a Benedictine monastery from the 12th century. While the island isn't open to the public, its beauty makes it a popular spot for photography and peaceful admiration from the water.

Bay of Kotor

Practical Tips for Visitors:

What to Bring:

When visiting Our Lady of the Rocks, it's useful to bring a few key items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you'll be walking around the island and exploring the church and museum. A camera is a must to capture the stunning views and historical sites. Additionally, bring water to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.

Dress Code:

As Our Lady of the Rocks is a religious site, it's important to dress respectfully. Visitors should wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees. This dress code is a sign of respect for the sacredness of the site and aligns with local customs. Carrying a light shawl or scarf can be useful for covering up if needed.

Accessibility:

Accessibility to Our Lady of the Rocks can be challenging for visitors with disabilities. The island has uneven surfaces and steps leading into the church, which may pose difficulties for those with mobility issues. While there are no specific facilities for disabled visitors, the boat operators and staff are generally helpful and may assist where possible. It is advisable to contact official tour operators in advance to discuss any special requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions:

The entrance fee to the church and museum is typically around 3 euros. They take cash only.
The church's Baroque artwork, including 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, and the museum's maritime artifacts are highlights. The boat ride itself and scenery is stunning as well.
Visitors can take regular boat tours from Perast to the island.
It cost me 15 euros, but I believe you can negotiate. Especially if there is a group of you. There doesn't seem to be any fixed pricing system.

References and Further Reading:

Montenegro Digital Nomad provides a comprehensive guide on the historic church of Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island in the Bay of Kotor. It details the island's creation, cultural significance, and the annual Fašinada tradition. The article also highlights the artifacts within the church and offers tips on how to visit.
Visit Montenegro discusses the origins of Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island created by sinking ships and rocks. It emphasizes the significance of the church built in 1630, the annual Fašinada event, and how visitors can access the island via boat tours.
Montenegro Pulse offers a detailed guide on visiting Our Lady of the Rocks, covering the history of the man-made island, the church and museum's maritime artifacts, and the annual Fašinada event. It includes practical information on how to reach the island from Perast and Kotor.
Museu.ms provides an overview of the man-made island Our Lady of the Rock, highlighting the church built in 1632, its art collection, and unique tapestry. The article also mentions the Fašinada tradition and the island's creation by sinking ships and rocks.

Our Lady of the Rocks Monastery