Perast Map

Description:

Perast is a small historic town located in the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro. Situated at the foot of St. Elijah Hill (873 m), it lies approximately 12 kilometers northwest of Kotor. The town has a population of fewer than 300 inhabitants and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor.

During the Venetian Republic period (1420-1797), Perast reached its peak of development, becoming known for its maritime school and skilled sailors. The town was home to a significant fleet of around 100 ships in the 18th century, and its captains were highly regarded throughout the Mediterranean. The Maritime Museum, housed in the Bujović Palace, preserves this rich nautical heritage through its collection of artifacts, documents, and maritime instruments.

The town's most notable landmarks are two picturesque islands situated directly in front of Perast. The artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) was created by local seamen who dropped rocks and sank old ships loaded with stones. The island houses a Roman Catholic church built in 1632. The second island, Saint George (Sveti Đorđe), is natural and features a 12th-century Benedictine monastery and an old graveyard for the nobility of Perast.

The architecture of Perast reflects its Venetian heritage, with 16 Baroque palaces and 17 Catholic churches lining its single main street. Among the most significant buildings are the Church of St. Nicholas, built in 1616, and Bujović Palace, constructed in 1694. The town's layout follows a uniform Baroque concept, with buildings arranged in rows, creating a harmonious architectural ensemble that has remained largely unchanged since the 18th century.

Today, Perast serves primarily as a tourist destination, attracting visitors with its well-preserved historical architecture, cultural heritage, and stunning location in the Bay of Kotor. The town strictly prohibits car traffic in its historic center, maintaining its authentic atmosphere and making it an ideal location for walking tours and cultural exploration.