Montenegro is a small but very picturesque country located in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula (Southeast of Europe). This young state with a rich history: although Montenegro gained independence only in 2006, its mention can be found in medieval chronicles.
In most countries of the world, Montenegro is known as Montenegro, although the local population calls their country "Crna Gora". However, the meaning of these two variants of names is the same: “black mountain”. That is how the Lovcen Massif, towering above the famous Boka Kotorska Bay, was once called. Several decades ago, this place became a national park.
In recent years, Montenegro has become a favorite destination for tourists from many countries. People come here for an interesting, varied and eventful holiday on the Adriatic coast. The Montenegrin coastline stretches for 300 km, a significant part of which is occupied by beautiful beaches of developed resort towns. In addition, the state has fourteen sea islands where you can also swim on the beaches.
Landscapes of Montenegro
But a beach holiday is far from the only thing that attracts Montenegro. In its towns - Perast, Kotor, Cetinje and others - you can see the pearls of ancient architecture. The largest resort of Budva will delight lovers of colorful nightlife, fans of natural beauty will be delighted with the beauty of Lake Skadar, the grandeur of the Tara River Canyon and mountain landscapes national parks. Montenegrin cuisine and the hospitality of the local population deserve special attention. Of course, in Montenegro everyone can get an unforgettable experience.
Short story
The Slavs came to Dalmatia in the 6th century, when these lands belonged to Rome. In 1042, the Serbs managed to achieve the independence of their own country, which they called Dukla. The state was recognized by the Catholic Church, after which it received the status of a kingdom. However, in the XII century, the Serbs gradually lost part of the conquered lands, and soon they were completely absorbed by stronger neighbors.
Montenegro According to Byzantine chronicles, the principality formed on the site of Dukla was called Zeta - in honor of the river flowing in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula. Zeta did not retain independence for long: due to the threat of capture by the Turks, the principality came under the protection of the Venetians.
However, the Ottoman Empire nevertheless took control of these territories, and in 1376 the former principality was named Montenegro in the official documentation of Dubrovnik. This was her first written mention.
In the period from the XVI to mid-nineteenth For centuries, Montenegro was an ecclesiastical state headed by bishops. Then the state structure again became secular, and princes and kings began to rule the country.
At the beginning of the 20th century, wars took place in the Balkan region, during which Montenegro managed to conquer new territories. In 1918, the country became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, and after the Second World War - in the socialist Yugoslavia. The collapse of this entity led to a tragic armed conflict, which is known to all the inhabitants of Europe. For local residents, this is a rather painful topic, so it is better not to raise it.
The country was part of the federal Yugoslavia from 1992 to 2003. Then she was in alliance with Serbia for several years. In 2006, following a public referendum, the country gained independence. Now it is part of NATO and is preparing to join the European Union.
Economy
Montenegro has a market economy model. The country receives income from industrial production(21.2%), services (70.5%) and agriculture (8.3%). The vast majority of the working population is employed in the service sector (tourism).
Industrial activity in the state is connected with metallurgy. For example, Niksic is considered the center of ferrous metallurgy; aluminum is processed in the capital Podgorica. The electrical industry is concentrated in Cetinje, shipbuilding is concentrated in Bijela. Also in Montenegro, tobacco is grown and salt is mined.
In the wars of the 1990s, the country's economy was severely undermined, but at the beginning of the new millennium, Montenegro took a new path and became an attractive tourist center. Moreover, tourists began to come here all year round. Since that time, the country's economy has begun to grow again, and in 2014, the profit from tourism reached 20 percent of GDP. According to experts' forecasts, the Montenegrin economy will continue to grow in the next few years.
The state has put the tourism sector in priority over agriculture and industry. Tourism is being developed in all areas, so Montenegro was even proclaimed an "ecological state".
Cities and resorts
There are a lot of resorts in Montenegro, so people with a variety of preferences can find a place to their liking in this country. There are also quiet coastal towns suitable for family vacation, and noisy Budva for young people, and the luxurious island of Sveti Stefan for tourists who prefer the most high level comfort. Small but well-known ski resorts are also popular. In a brief overview you will find small descriptions of cities and resorts that will help you make your choice.
Podgorica
The city of Podgorica is the capital of Montenegro The capital of Montenegro Podgorica is the largest city in the country. Its population is just over 150 thousand people, which is a quarter of all Montenegrins. There is no access to the sea in Podgorica, but there is an international airport, there is the only state university in the country, theaters, several museums and even monuments to Pushkin and Vysotsky, who sang the courage of Montenegrins.
You will find a detailed description of Podgorica with a photo.
Tivat Tivat is the place from which the trip to Montenegro begins for most tourists. Near the city there is an international airport, from which guests of the country leave for different resorts. By the way, Tivat also has a beach and several islands, but during the high season there are a lot of tourists in the city, so there are practically no free sun loungers left.
Budva, old town Petrovac
Petrovac, Montenegro Petrovac is a cozy town located on the very shore of a picturesque bay, it will be an ideal place for relaxation. Here you can walk along the pine and olive groves, walk along the promenade with numerous cafes and shops, and also go on boat trips to the nearest islands. Nightlife lovers can visit an unusual club in a converted 16th-century fortress.
View of Kotor Kotor practically consists of solid sights. The entire historical center of the city, in which medieval quarters, temples and palaces have been perfectly preserved, is included in the list world heritage UNESCO. The old city is surrounded by fortress walls up to 16 meters thick. There are small beaches in Kotor, but large tourist liners sail to the coast every day, so the water in this part of the bay is not so clean.
A detailed description of the city of Kotor and the Bay of Kotor is presented on.
Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi This resort is chosen mainly by those tourists who want to improve their health. Here is located a large center of spa treatment, rehabilitation and physiotherapy called "Igalo", which offers modern procedures for the treatment of various diseases and improvement general condition. Another advantage of this town is beautiful gardens and parks with dozens of species of exotic plants.
More detailed information about Herceg Novi with photos has been collected.
Ulcinj Ulcinj is the southernmost, sunniest and warmest resort in Montenegro. It is located near the border with Albania: not far from the picturesque Skadar Lake. It is believed that the sand on the beaches of Ulcinj and mineral composition waters have healing properties.
Ada-Boyana
This small island, 25 km from Ulcinj, has received the status of a reserve, so here you can enjoy untouched nature. One coast of this triangular island is washed by the salty Adriatic Sea, and the other two - fresh water Boyan river. But Ada-Boyana has gained wide popularity not for this reason: the resort is famous as a vacation spot for nudists. Naked people swim, sunbathe and even play sports here.
St Stephen's Island
Sveti Stefan Previously, this island was an ordinary fishing village, but now it has turned into an elite resort with the most luxurious apartments in all of Montenegro. Resting here Hollywood stars, famous businessmen and even monarchs. The territory of the island is closed to ordinary tourists, but everyone can relax on a free beach with a canonical view of the resort, which can be seen on tourist brochures.
Black Lake in Zabljak The small town of Zabljak, with a population of only 2,000, has become a popular ski resort. Tourists are happy to come all year round - to admire the local natural beauties and rest easy. Zabljak is known as the highest located settlement in Europe. It is located in the center of the Durmitor mountain range at an altitude of almost 1.5 km above the sea.
More detailed information about the ski resort of Zabljak is presented in.
Ski resort Kolasin Another well-known ski resort is surrounded by three mountain ranges with centuries-old forests. national park. The high season here lasts from early November to early May, but the town is not empty in summer either. In the warm season, people come here to breathe the healing mountain air and enjoy nature.
Find out the RATES or book any accommodation using this form
Entertainment and attractions
Lovcen Montenegro has a lot of attractions: both natural and architectural. There are preserved medieval buildings in almost every city, and in the continental part of the country you can see the most beautiful mountain lakes, canyons, and picturesque valleys. We list the main attractions of this country.
Mount Lovcen
Near the city of Kotor, which we wrote about in the previous section, there is an important symbol of Montenegro - Mount Lovcen. The splendor of Montenegrin landscapes is difficult to describe in words. Climbing this mountain, you will see everything for yourself.
Bucha Castle
Bucha Castle in Montenegro This old castle, once a family summer residence, has become a real cultural center Tivat: it organizes exhibitions and other events all year round. The palace complex was built in the 17th century: now it has been completely restored and equipped on the territory with a summer theater, an art gallery, a cinema and a garden.
St. Mark's Island
The city of Tivat is known primarily for its airport, and secondly for its three islands, the most beautiful of which is St. Mark's Island. A small island with romantic beaches is almost completely covered with green trees.
Gornja Lastva village
Gornja Lastva Not far from Tivat, you can visit the colorful Montenegrin village of Gornja Lastva. Here are preserved traditional houses coastal Montenegrin regions, so the place especially attracts connoisseurs of historical architecture. If you want to feel the spirit of Montenegro and watch the sunset away from noisy tourists, be sure to visit this village.
Skadar Lake
Skadar lake in Montenegro Geography
Montenegro is located in the west of the Balkan Peninsula. In the southwest, the country is washed by the Adriatic Sea: the coastline reaches a length of about 300 km.
Although the length of the land borders of Montenegro is only 625 kilometers, the country has as many as five neighbors. It borders with Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia and partly with the unrecognized Republic of Kosovo.
Conventionally, the entire area of Montenegro can be divided into three parts: the coast, the plain in the center of the state, where the largest cities are located, and the mountains in the east of the country.
Almost half of the area of Montenegro (more than 41%) is occupied by forests, another 39.5% is covered by pastures. Therefore, the country can be considered an ecological reserve. In terms of area, Montenegro ranks 155th in the world (13.8 km2). According to 2016 data, 622 thousand people live in the country.
Climate
The country has a temperate continental climate. The weather in the mountains is characteristic of the Alps. On the coast in Montenegro, the climate is typical of the Mediterranean region. In the central region of the country, the air temperature is cooler than near the sea, which is explained by subalpine factors. Summer in Primorye is hot and moderately dry, warm weather (+23-25 degrees Celsius) lasts a long time. Winter is short and wet, there are practically no frosts (3-7 degrees Celsius).
The swimming season in Montenegro starts at the end of April and lasts until the last week of September. The best time to visit this country is from May to October. IN different time year, the water temperature in the sea ranges from +12 to +26 degrees Celsius.
Currency
In Montenegro, they use the euro. But, since the country is not part of the eurozone, it cannot issue the euro, so it is content with imported money. Most of them are brought by foreign tourists.
Local banks are open five days a week - until lunch (Mon - Thu 8:00-15:00, Fri 8:00-13:00). Saturday is their day off. In the resorts and in the capital, currency exchange offices are open in the evening and also work on weekends.
When exchanging currencies, keep in mind that the rate at different exchange offices may differ. If you did not have time to change money, then almost everywhere you can pay bank card(with the exception of mountain villages). Local shops and establishments accept VISA and Mastercard. You can withdraw euros from ATMs around the clock.
If you need to exchange currency, then this can be done not only in bank branches or exchange offices, but also in hotels and post offices. Always stay on course. It is believed that the most favorable rate is offered by the People's Bank.
Transport
The most common type passenger transport in Montenegro - buses. When planning trips, you need to take into account possible deviations from the schedule (buses are old, they can break down on the way). When traveling by car, you also need to add extra time, because you won’t be able to drive along the serpentine.
Bus in Montenegro On the coast, buses usually run every 10-15 minutes, starting at 6 am. The last bus leaves around midnight. Composters are installed in the salons to cancel purchased tickets. You can also buy a multi-use pass at the kiosk. One trip by bus will cost 1-1.5 euros.
It is better to buy bus tickets in advance because drivers sell them at double the markup. If you need to go beyond the coast, for example, to Cetinje or Podgorica, then the departure will be from the bus station. The ticket price will depend on the length of the route. For example, the road from Budva to Ulcinj will cost 6 euros (distance - 65 km).
Outside the coast, buses in Montenegro run at large intervals. The only exception is Podgorica. There are few stops, passengers often stand and vote on the side of the road.
As for taxis, you need to negotiate the cost of the trip with private carriers in advance. The price will be initially inflated, so it needs to be knocked down. Private traders do not have meters, unlike licensed taxi drivers. A legal taxi charges 2 euros for landing, and then 1 euro for each kilometer.
Water taxis also operate in Montenegro. Motor ships and boats ply between villages and cities along the coast. Many private boats are moored near the shore. Their owners, by agreement, will take you in any direction. A trip on a private boat costs an average of 10-15 euros.
If you plan to rent a car, then count on 30-40 euros per day for a small car. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado with seven seats will cost 200 euros. There will be enough gas stations along the way, a liter of gasoline costs from 1.2 to 1.5 euros.
Compare accommodation prices using this form
Visas
Montenegro has canceled visas for citizens of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, who come for the purpose of tourism. Insurance is not considered mandatory, but it is still recommended to take out.
The import and export of foreign currency is not limited, although significant amounts are advised to declare. Generally customs control in Montenegro for Russians, Ukrainians and Belarusians takes place in a simplified form.
More detailed information about the rules for entering Montenegro is presented on.
Communications and Wi-Fi
In Montenegro, mobile communications are provided by three operators: T-Mobile, Promonte and M:Tel. Their branches can be found in any relatively large city. SIM cards are sold at newsstands, supermarkets and souvenir shops.
The cost of the SIM card is fully credited to the subscriber's account. In the future, to replenish the balance, you can buy special cards with secret codes (money is credited instantly). Such payment cards are sold in the same place as SIM. You can also pay for mobile communications from the payment terminal, where a Russian-language menu is available.
3G network is supported in Montenegro. In the city Mobile Internet works fine, but in the mountains there are failures. Wi-Fi hotspots can be found in cafes and hotels. The connection speed is high. Usually each institution has a password for connecting to the Internet: ask the employees for it.
Another way to access the Internet is a USB modem, which you can buy at one of the mobile operator's offices. To purchase you will be asked for a passport. The cost of a modem and a SIM card is up to 50 euros.
What Montenegro looks like is well conveyed by the following video.
The territory on which modern Montenegro is located was formerly part of the Roman Empire. In those days, it was called Dukla (Doclea). First Slavic tribes began to settle in this region of the Balkan Peninsula in the VI century. The Balkans became Slavic in the 8th century.
Christianity appeared on the territory of Montenegro in the 7th century. When the Empire was divided into Western, Roman, Eastern and Byzantine this region passed the border. In addition, the churches here were divided into Roman and Orthodox. This determined the historical position of Montenegro on the border of the Slavic and Mediterranean peoples. Mixed in it different cultures and economic systems.
The state included the territory near Lake Skadar, as well as the nearby mountains. The first Prince of Dukley was Vladimir. Dukla was renamed Zeta. In 1040, it gained independence and became the first independent state in the Balkans to receive Byzantine recognition. The country reached its greatest prosperity at the end of the 11th century. Then she controlled almost the entire territory of modern Bosnia and Serbia.
The modern name of Montenegro was first mentioned in the chronicles of the monastery of St. Nicholas in Vranjin, dating back to 1296. That was the name of the area around Mount Lovcen. It looked black from the dense forest growing on it.
In the Middle Ages, Zeta was a small feudal state. The country had to win back its independence from the encroachments of Albania, Venice, and then Turkey. Various dynasties were at the head of the state: Vojisavljevic, Balsic and Crnojevic. In the 15th century, during the reign of the Krnojevics, a fortress and a monastery were built in the town of Cestinje. This place began to be considered a symbol of spiritual and state independence. In 1493, under their rule, the first in the Balkans was created
printing house.
Then, in 1496, the state came under Turkish rule. The invaders annexed Zeta to the province of Skadar. But even at that time, Montenegro enjoyed great rights of autonomy. The state was able to obtain independence from Turkey in 1645. After that, the metropolitans, who enjoyed very great spiritual influence, as well as the Assembly of the People of Montenegro, were at the head of the country.
In 1697, the Assembly appointed Danila I as metropolitan, from whom the Petrovich dynasty originates. In the 18th-19th centuries, Montenegro won several victories in battles with Turkish troops that outnumbered them. This contributed to her full release from Turkish influence. In many ways, allied relations with Russia contributed to these victories. In the same period, Montenegro received access to the Adriatic coast and began to control the port of Bar. The results of the liberation wars of 1875-1878 were formalized in the peace treaty signed at San Stefano in February 1878, as well as at the Berlin Congress in the summer of 1878. After this Berlin Congress, Montenegro (together with Serbia and Romania) received the status of an internationally recognized state. July 13th became national holiday.
IN late XIX century in Montenegro, statehood is rapidly developing. In 1879, by his decree, Prince Nicholas established State Council, ministries and Supreme Court. In 1888, the country adopted Civil Code and Property Law.
The first Montenegrin constitution appeared on December 19, 1905. In 1910 Parliament ( People's Assembly) proclaimed Montenegro a constitutional monarchy. Prince Nicholas became King Nicholas I.
During this period, industry began to develop rapidly in the country. The daughter of Prince Nicholas, Elena, was the wife of the King of Italy, Victor Emmanuel. By agreement with him, Italy invested 10 million lire in the development of the Montenegrin economy. With these funds, a port in Bar was built in the country. There was also a railway that connected Bar, Virpazar, Podgorica and Danilovgrad.
During the First World War, the country fought on the side of the Entente. The army of Montenegro fought with the troops of Austria-Hungary under the command of Serbia. After the end of the war, Montenegro became the only victorious country that lost its independence. Serbia managed to realize the idea of "Great Serbia", creating the kingdom of the southern Slavs, called Yugoslavia. Montenegro joined it by decision of the Assembly in Podgorica on November 11, 1918. The country lost its sovereignty, army and royal dynasty. Part of the country's population protested against unification with Serbia. Armed uprisings began to break out, the Serbian army successfully suppressed them. In the mountainous regions of the country, Serbian resistance continued until 1920.
Montenegro became part of the province of Zetska Banovina. This territory became one of the poorest provinces of Yugoslavia. During the Second World War, the bases of Tito's partisan movement were located here. After the victory and the formation of the communist state, Yugoslavia became a federation. Montenegro was then one of the seven republics that were part of it. Industry began to develop on subsidies from the center in the republic. In the 1980s, the active development of the tourism industry began here.
Yugoslavia broke up in the early 1990s. Montenegro at that time remained in one federal state with Serbia. At first, this state continued to wear former name Yugoslavia, and since 2003 - Serbia and Montenegro. fighting did not affect Montenegro. However, the country suffered quite seriously from international sanctions that were imposed on the union state. In a referendum held on May 21, 2006, 55.5% of the inhabitants of Montenegro voted to leave the federation with Serbia. On June 3, 2006, Montenegro declared its independence. On June 15, the independence of Montenegro was recognized by Serbia. Montenegro became an independent state.
Montenegro is now deservedly considered an ideal place to relax. The beauty of this small country lies in its picturesque medieval towns and villages, amazingly beautiful rivers, lakes and mountains, and, of course, excellent ski resorts and magnificent beaches of the Adriatic Sea. When you go to Montenegro - do not forget to take your camera with you!
Geography of Montenegro
Montenegro is located in southeastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. In the west, Montenegro borders on Croatia, in the northeast - on Serbia, in the east - on Kosovo, in the northwest - on Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in the southeast - on Albania. The Adriatic Sea adjoins Montenegro from the southwest. total area this Balkan country - 13,812 sq. km, including the islands, and the total length of the state border is 571.6 km.
Mountains in Montenegro are located mainly in the east of the country. The highest peaks are Zla Kolata peak on Prokletiye mountain (2536 m) and Boboltov Kuk peak on Durmitor mountain (2522 m). The coast of the Adriatic Sea of Montenegro is a narrow plain.
There are a lot of rivers in Montenegro, which are distinguished by their beauty. The longest of them are Tara, Lim, and Cheotina.
Capital
The capital of Montenegro is Podgorica, which is now home to about 150 thousand people. Historians believe that a Roman settlement once existed on the territory of modern Podgorica.
Official language
In Montenegro official language- Montenegrin. Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian, Albanian are officially used as regional languages in Montenegro.
Religion
More than 72% of the population of Montenegro are Orthodox Christians ( Greek Catholic Church). Another 19% of Montenegrins are Sunni Muslims, and 3% are Catholics.
State structure of Montenegro
According to the 2007 Constitution, Montenegro is parliamentary republic. The head of state is the President. The official residence of the Montenegrin President is located in Cetinje.
Legislative power belongs to the unicameral parliament - the Assembly (91 deputies).
Climate and weather in Montenegro
In the coastal regions of Montenegro, the climate is Mediterranean with an average air temperature of + 10-12C in winter and + 25-28C in summer.
In the north of the country, the climate is temperate continental with an average air temperature of -10C to +5C in winter and +19-25C in summer.
Sea in Montenegro
The length of the Adriatic coast in Montenegro is 295 kilometers. Of these, 72 kilometers are beaches. The attention of tourists is always attracted by the Montenegrin Bay of Kotor.
Montenegro includes 14 small islands in the Adriatic Sea, some of them are an excellent tourist destination (Perast Island, St. Stephen Island).
The average temperature of the Adriatic Sea in Montenegro:
- January - +13С
- February - +13C
- March - +14C
- April - +16С
- May - +20C
- June - +24C
- july - +24С
- August - +25С
- september - +24С
- october - +21С
- November - +18С
- December - +15С
Rivers and lakes
Several large rivers flow through the territory of Montenegro - Tara, Lim, Cheotina, Moraca and Zeta. The length of the largest of them, Tara, is 144 km. In addition, Skadar Lake is located on the territory of Montenegro.
History of Montenegro
According to legend, when God created the Earth, he left many mountains, and he collected them all in one place - this is how Montenegro appeared.
Slavic tribes came to the territory of Montenegro in the VI century. Before them, Illyrian tribes lived in Montenegro, which were conquered by legionnaires ancient rome. The Montenegrin tribes were, of course, pagans at first, but through assimilation they adopted Christianity from the Romans.
Montenegrins claim that Montenegro was the only country in the Balkans that the Ottoman Empire could not conquer. Indeed, the troops of the Ottoman Empire often invaded Montenegro, but were never able to completely conquer it.
The founder of the Montenegrin state is considered to be Stefan Crnojevic. In the middle of the XV century, Montenegro began to have vassal relations with Venice, which helped her in the fight against the Ottoman Empire.
From 1515 to 1696 Montenegro was a theocratic state ruled by bishops. Then, until 1918, princes from the Petrovich dynasty ruled Montenegro.
In 1905 Prince Nicholas gave Montenegro its first constitution. In 1910, the Montenegrin Parliament proclaimed Montenegro a constitutional monarchy headed by the king (Nikolai became him).
In 1918, Montenegro voluntarily joined the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, and from November 1945 this country joined the socialist Yugoslavia. Montenegro became an independent state only in 2006. The Constitution of Montenegro was adopted in 2007.
Culture of Montenegro
The culture of Montenegro was significantly influenced by its neighbors. However, this country still has a unique original culture.
The architecture of Montenegro, especially in the central part of the country, was formed under strong Byzantine influence. Montenegrin medieval monasteries decorated with thousands of unique frescoes.
First literary work Montenegrins was written 10 centuries ago, and the first printed book in the Montenegrin language was published more than 5 centuries ago (it was "Oktoih"). The first printing house in Montenegro was founded in 1495 in Cetinje.
Montenegrin traditions are kept by local clans. Throughout the history of Montenegro huge role played by local clans. In principle, even now the situation in this respect has changed little.
In Montenegro, a lot of different festivals are held annually. The most famous of them are Budva Music Festival, Fasinada in Perast, Days of Mrkojevici in Bar, Cetinje cultural summer, International summer carnival in Kotor, etc.
Cuisine of Montenegro
There are three "directions" in Montenegrin cuisine - northern, continental and Mediterranean. Northern Montenegrin cuisine is somewhat similar to oriental cuisine. In turn, the Mediterranean Montenegrin cuisine is characterized by a wide use of seafood. As for the continental cuisine, fish is also widely used there, but from rivers and lakes (carp, trout, and eel).
Tourists in Montenegro we recommend to try fish soup"Brodette" (it is made from three types of fish), "buzara" (fish baked in wine and oil), "Čorba" (vegetable and meat soup), "Pašticada" (meat with garlic), "Japraci" (similar to "stuffed cabbage" dish), "Polenta" (corn porridge), "kačamak krtolovi" (corn porridge with mashed potatoes), "prsuta" (pork ham), "Prevreli sir" (cheese).
A traditional Montenegrin soft drink is buttermilk, which resembles slightly salty yogurt.
Montenegro makes excellent wine. Tourists are advised to try the red wine "Vío Vranac" and the white "Krstač".
Sights of Montenegro
Now in Montenegro there are about 3 thousand archaeological and historical and architectural monuments. For such a small country like Montenegro, this is a very large figure. The Top 10 most interesting Montenegrin sights, in our opinion, include the following:
Cities and resorts of Montenegro
The largest cities in Montenegro are Niksic, Bijelo Polje, Pljevlja, Cetinje, Herceg Novi, Budva, and, of course, the capital is Podgorica.
Most tourists come to Montenegro in order to relax at local beach resorts. 72 kilometers of the Montenegrin coast of the Adriatic Sea are beaches. The most popular Montenegrin beach resorts are Budva (the so-called Budva Riviera), Ulcinj, Bar, Becici, Sveti Stefa, Sutomore, Tivat, etc.
Top 10 best Montenegrin beaches:
- Sveti Stefan Beach
- Grand Beach Ulcinj
- Slovenska Plaza in Budva
- Jaz Beach in Budva
- Red Beach near Sutomore
- Kraljicina Beach
- Valdanos in Bratica
- Perazica Do near Petrovac
- Crvene Glavice beach
- Murici Beach
In recent years, ski resorts have been actively developing in Montenegro, but this is understandable, given that most The country is occupied by mountains. The most popular Montenegrin ski resorts are Durmitor, Bielasica-Ezerine, and Vucje.
Souvenirs/Shopping
We advise tourists from Montenegro to bring Montenegrin tea, essential oils, wine, cheese, handicrafts, ceramics, traditional women's folk clothes, and, of course, various plates, cups depicting famous Montenegrin sights.
Office Hours
Podgorica(Montenegrin Podgoritsa / Pòdgorica, in 1952-1992 Titograd) is the capital and largest city of Montenegro, which is located in the central part of the country and covers an area of about 1500 km2. According to the latest census, the population of Podgorica is almost 200 thousand people. The city is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and while walking through the streets of the capital, you can enjoy picturesque landscapes mountains and hills of Podgorica. By the way, there are several hills in the capital, one of which is called Gorica, which explains the origin of the name of the city. Cityscapes complete rivers and Ribnitsa.
City `s history.
Convenient geographical position and the favorable climate of the valley attracted the Illyrian tribes here 2000 years ago. Later, these territories were conquered by the Romans, and three settlements appeared here - Alata, Birziminium and Dioclea.
In the 5th century after the fall of the Roman Empire, the first Slavic tribes came to these lands, who waged incessant wars with Byzantium in the hope of forming their own state. On the banks of the Ribnitsa River, they founded a new city with the same name. The first mention of Rybnitsa dates back to the time of the Nemanich dynasty, it was in this city that the founder of the dynasty was born - Stefan Nemanja. The name "Podgorica" is first found in archival documents in 1326. It was in the XIV century. intensifies economic importance of this place, due to the fact that the city was on the trade route between Serbia and Dubrovnik.
However, in 1474, the Turks captured the city and turned it into a fortified bastion to repel the raids of the rebellious Montenegrin tribes, who repeatedly tried to recapture them. At the same time, the city built Fortress Depedogen. The end of 400 years of Ottoman occupation was put only at the Berlin Congress of 1878, which recognized the independence of Montenegro. Thus, the city becomes part of the new state.
The first years of the XX century. were a time of active development for Podgorica, large enterprises appeared here, new roads were built. However, with the outbreak of the First World War, a black streak began again in the history of the city. In 1916, he fell under the Austro-Hungarian occupation, which lasted until 1918. And during the bombing during the Second World War, Podgorica was almost completely wiped off the face of the earth. On December 19, 1944, partisans liberated the city.
Already being part of the SFRY, on July 13, 1946, the city acquires a new name Titograd received in honor of Marshal Josip Broz Tito, and new status- capital Cities. historical name Podgorica was returned to the city on April 2, 1992.
Sights of Podgorica.
Throughout the year, Podgorica attracts great amount tourists from all over the world with its historical, cultural and architectural monuments, various museums, galleries and exhibitions.
Arriving in the capital of Montenegro, the first thing you can visit City Museum of Podgorica founded in 1950. To this day, it keeps unique exhibits relating to the Roman and Illyrian eras. The exposition is divided into 4 parts: archaeological, ethnographic, historical and cultural-historical. The collection of the museum contains books printed by Bozidar Vukovich, vintage cards and coins, national costumes and household items.
When you exit the museum, there is a crossroads on the left. Go to him and turn right - after 2 blocks you will see his wife Natalya Goncharova. The monument was erected in 2002 as a sign of special respect for the work of the poet, who at one time was admired by the main writer of Montenegro - Peter II Petrovich Njegosh. By the way, it's nearby.
In the center of the city is the main square of the capital with a fountain in the middle - Republic Square- a venue for all kinds of events: concerts, rallies and spontaneous markets.
Coming up Sloboda streets(if you stand with your back to the fountain in the square, then you need to follow to the left), you will be taken to Gorica hill representing park area. It was he who gave the city its name. Nearby is the oldest building in Podgorica and the main attraction - Church of St. George, which is located at the foot of Mount Goritsa, built in the X-XI centuries. Frescoes from the 1670s have been preserved here, and in the altar part there used to be a secret underground passage. 
lifehack: Gorica is a great place for walking: climbing the shady alleys of the hill, you can reach the very top, from where you can see the whole city.
On Goritsa is located memorial to the partisan fighter, opened in 1957. Here are buried 97 heroes who fell in the people's liberation struggle waged by the Yugoslav partisans against the fascist invaders with the support of Soviet troops in 1941-1945
Returning from Goritsa to the wide Ivan Tsrnoevich Boulevard, go along it to the right, past the city stadium, and you will get to another attraction of the city -. It connects two shores Moraca rivers and was built in 2005 by architect Mladen Ulevich. The length of the bridge is 140 m, and the height of the pylon is 57 m. The construction cost the state 7 million euros. The bridge is especially picturesque at night, in the rays of special illumination. 
A year earlier, it was installed on the banks of the Moraca - if you cross the bridge, it will be on your left hand. Nearby is the pedestrian Moscow bridge 105 m long.
Some distance from the center is Stara Varosh district, small old town of Podgorica. Since the time of the Ottoman occupation, narrow crooked streets, two mosques and, or Sakhat-kula, have remained here. The tower was built in 1667, and the clock installed on it, specially brought from Italy, remained the only one in the city for a long time. The height of the tower is 16 m. 
If you want to continue walking around the city, be sure to visit the picturesque petrovich park aka Krushevac. It contains a valid church of saint Great Martyr Demetrius. Also located here Palace of Petrovich, where the Petrovich Art Gallery is located and also includes the "House of Honor Guard", the palace chapel and other buildings. Since 1995, the gallery has been part of the "Center Modern Art". The gallery presents more than 1500 works of art from all over the world. Exhibitions are regularly held in the halls of the gallery, attracting the attention of many fans of painting and sculpture.
In Podgorica is the largest operating in Montenegro. 
Its construction, begun in 1993, was carried out with the donations of believers, as well as with the financial support of the government of the country.
There are 2 large shopping centers in the city. is a shopping area, under the roof of which there are more than 70 stores, playgrounds for children, beauty salons, a food court and a multiplex cinema. opened in 2010. It houses a large grocery supermarket, gym, playground, bowling, food court, cafe with live music, disco (Thursday, Friday, Saturday 21:00-03:00) and many clothing stores.
There is a large concentration in the center of Podgorica. Of the local fish dishes, you should try fish soup, fish goulash, fried and smoked fish. Meat lovers can recommend lamb in a pot. Often meat dishes in Podgorica they cook with kaimak - salted cream. Local cheese and honey are good in Podgorica. As an accompaniment to dinner, you can order lozovac - grape moonshine, which is served here with prosciutto (dried meat).
How to get to the city?
Upon arrival at Podgorica airport, it is best to order a city taxi, as the cost of private drivers may be overpriced. Experienced travelers say that 800 meters from the airport on the way to Podgorica there is the Aerodrom railway stop. And from it you can get to Podgorica in seven minutes. But the disadvantage of such a journey is that the trains run at a large interval.
From Podgorica itself, or rather, you can easily get to any city in Montenegro and not only. Within the city, you can use buses or minibuses. One trip costs approximately 0.8 EUR, a ticket can be purchased from the driver.
Being the capital, the city can offer a wide range of options for settlement. Among which are Hotel Podgorica 4*, located on the picturesque bank of the Moraca River, very close to the city center or hotel Ramada 4*- Winner of the "Best Hotel in Podgorica 2012" award.
Podgorica is the main city of Montenegro. typical European capital you can’t name it, but Podgorica is worth a visit because of its unique atmosphere, the old and the new are wonderfully combined here, in the city you can get acquainted with the culture of Montenegro, and in the summer you can swim in the river and sunbathe.
, Berane , Cetinje
The longest rivers in Montenegro are: Tara (144 km), Lim (123 km), Ceotina (100 km), Moraca (99 km), Zeta (65 km) and Bojana (30 km). About 52.2% of Montenegrin rivers belong to the Black Sea basin, the remaining 47.8% - to the Adriatic Sea basin. Three Montenegrin rivers (Moraca, Zeta and Piva) flow throughout their entire length through the territory of Montenegro. The Bojana River was previously the only navigable river in Montenegro; on currently it is not navigable. Most Montenegrin rivers are mountainous and form deep canyons. The canyon of the Tara River, with a depth of about 1200 m, is the deepest in Europe and the second deepest in the world. The rivers of Montenegro have an energy potential of 115 kW per 1 km² of territory, which is a very high figure. However, for various reasons (including environmental reasons), hydropower is underdeveloped in the country.
The largest lake in Montenegro and the entire Balkan Peninsula is Skadar. The total area of its water surface is 369.7 km². Two thirds of the lake (by area) are located on the territory of Montenegro, one third - on the territory of Albania. The second largest lake in Montenegro is Shasskoye (3.64 km²), located near Ulcinj. Also on the territory of Montenegro there are 29 small mountain lakes of glacial origin (the so-called "mountain eyes"), the total area of which is 3.89 km².
More than 41% of the country's area is forests and forest lands, 39.58% - pastures. Vegetable world Montenegro is diverse: in total, 2833 plant species have been recorded in the country, of which 212 are endemic to the Balkan Peninsula, and 22 are endemic to Montenegro. According to the Constitution of Montenegro, the republic is an “environmentally friendly state”, 8.1% of the territory is under various environmental protection regimes (including national reserves Durmitor, Lovcen, Biogradska Gora and Skadar Lake).
Climate
In northern Montenegro - temperate continental, on the Adriatic coast - Mediterranean. In the coastal region, summer is usually long, hot (+23-25 °С) and rather dry, winter is short and cool (+3-7 °С). In mountainous areas, moderately warm summers (+19-25 °C) and relatively Cold winter(from +5 to -10 °C), precipitation falls mainly in the form of snow. 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. Quantity sundial per year: in Igalo - 2386, in Ulcinj - 2700.
Population
According to the 2003 census, 620,145 people live in Montenegro (3.5% annual growth).
National composition population:
- others - 5.56%
¹ - Montenegrins and Serbs professing Islam
Legislature
Legislative power is exercised by a unicameral parliament - the Assembly. The Assembly consists of 81 deputies elected by direct secret ballot. The term of office of the Assembly is 4 years.
executive power
Executive power is exercised by the Government (Vlad). The composition of the government is approved by the Assembly at the proposal of the President.
Judicial branch
The judicial system is two-tiered. The Supreme Court of Montenegro ensures the unity of law enforcement practice throughout the country.
In addition to the two-level judicial system there is also a Constitutional Court.
Administrative division
The territory of Montenegro is divided into 21 municipalities (region, community; Serb. Opshtina). The municipalities are named after their central cities:
Administrative divisions of Montenegro
- Podgorica, this municipality includes two urban districts:
- City district Zeta (the central city is Golubovtsy, Zeta is the name of the historical region and ancient name Montenegro)
- Tuzi Urban District
Political structure
Political situation
In the late 1990s, the Montenegrin leader Milo Djukanovic turned from an ally of Slobodan Milosevic into his implacable opponent, which immediately attracted the international community and the Serbian opposition to his side. Djukanovic first demanded from Milosevic to secure for Montenegro the right to an independent foreign policy, and subsequently set as its goal complete independence. Then the European Union prevented it from gaining legal independence.
The State Community of Serbia and Montenegro was created under the strong pressure of the European Union with the active participation of Javier Solana. According to the Constitution Party of the new state, elections were to be held in February 2005 in its legislative assembly, and since 2006, the republics in its composition received the right to hold a referendum on independence. However, the elections did not take place - the President of S&M, Montenegrin Svetozar Marovic, did not set a date for their holding, referring to the lack of a legislative framework.
As a result, from the beginning of March 2005, after the expiration of the term of mandates, deputies of the Parliament of the Community, its ministers and the president himself, from a legal point of view, became private individuals. Around the same time, Djukanovic and Montenegrin President Filip Vujanovic came up with a new plan - to turn the State Community into a union of independent states.
Serbian authorities are divided on this issue: while Prime Minister Vojislav Kostunica rejected the proposal, Serbian President Boris Tadic said that it could be considered.
In Serbia, it is widely believed that Djukanovic's desire for independence hides purely personal reasons - a desire to avoid responsibility in connection with the ongoing investigation in Italy on suspicion of involvement in smuggling and links with the Italian mafia. Serbia also indicates that the secession of Montenegro can become a legal argument in favor of the independence of Kosovo, since according to UN Security Council Resolution No. 1244, Kosovo is recognized integral part Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (and, accordingly, its successor - the State Community of Serbia and Montenegro), and not Serbia. The secession of Montenegro deprived Belgrade of access to the sea.
After declaring independence, Montenegro began to rebuild its international relations.
Referendum
Negotiations between the Montenegrin authorities and the opposition on the terms of the referendum have been going on since the beginning of 2006. Initially, the opposition, which opposed the independence of Montenegro, categorically refused to discuss even the very idea of holding a referendum. The European Union offered its mediation. The mediation mission was entrusted to the EU Special Representative Miroslav Lajcak. In the course of further discussion, the opposition accepted the idea of a referendum and agreed with the ruling coalition on the conditions for its holding. However, there were discrepancies in key issue- about the majority necessary for making a decision.
According to the Montenegrin referendum law, in order to make a decision, it was necessary to score 50% plus one vote of those participating in the referendum, with a mandatory turnout of 50%. The opposition, however, demanded that not only the population of Montenegro itself, but also Montenegrins living in Serbia participate in the referendum. Under these conditions, Miroslav Lajcak proposed his own formula: the European Union recognizes the independence of Montenegro if 55% of those participating in the referendum vote for it. This formula caused a strong negative reaction in Montenegro. Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic has warned that it poses a danger to Montenegro's stability.
Armed forces
Story
Montenegro originated as independent state in the XVIII century, the first of the countries of the Balkan Peninsula to free itself from the yoke of the Ottoman Empire. The capital of the state was the city of Cetinje. It existed in this form until World War I, after which it became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes in 1918. Since the collapse of Yugoslavia () existed as part of the Union Republic of Serbia and Montenegro. In 2006, a referendum was held, at which the independence of the state was proclaimed. The current capital is Podgorica.
In the VI century - the Slavs came to the lands of Montenegro and mixed with the local tribes.
-1944 - under German occupation.
-1945 years - under the control of the Yugoslav partisans.
March - in a referendum, the inhabitants of Montenegro voted for the republic to remain part of Yugoslavia.
May 21 - a referendum was held in Montenegro on issues state status Republic, in which more than half of the participants voted for complete independence from Belgrade (at that time, Montenegro already had a currency separate from Serbia and a duty border with it).
June 3 - the assembly (parliament) of Montenegro proclaimed the independence of the republic.
Economy
Main article: Economy of Montenegro
Traditionally, the economy of Montenegro was based on ferrous metallurgy (center - Niksic), aluminum processing (Podgorica), electrical industry (Cetinje), rubber, chemical industry and production of bearings (Kotor), textile industry (Bielo Polje), shipbuilding and ship repair (Biela, Bar), light and food industry (Niksic, Bar), woodworking (Rozaje, Berane, Pljevlja, Niksic).
During Yugoslav times, Montenegro was the most backward, subsidized republic of the federation. To a large extent, the country's economy was shaken by the wars of the early 1990s, in which Montenegro acted on the side of Serbia, and the ensuing isolation of "small" Yugoslavia. Despite this, by the early 2000s, Montenegro was able to find itself on international arena, becoming an attractive object of tourism, both summer and winter; since then, the country has experienced significant economic growth every year. Very popular are international resorts in the cities of Herceg Novi, Budva, Becici, Petrovac, as well as historical and natural attractions - the city of Kotor on the shore of the Bay of Kotor, former capital Cetinje, Lake Skadar, Mount Lovcen, high-altitude Ostrog Monastery, Tara river canyon (the largest in Europe and the second in the world: its depth reaches 1300 m), national park Durmitor and its ski resort Zabljak (1465 meters above sea level, it is the highest mountain town in the Balkans). The policy of the state is aimed at the comprehensive development of the tourism sector, it is given priority over industry and agriculture. This, in particular, is evidenced by the proclamation of Montenegro as an “environmentally friendly state”.
