Kotor Architecture

Old Town Kotor is surrounded by walls on three sides, forming a triangle shape. The northern walls face the river Skurda, while the eastern ones are protected by the mountain of Saint John (San Giovanni). Lastly, the town faces the Bay of Kotor on the southwest side.

There are three gates in total: the Sea Gate, the Gurdic Gate (or South Gate) on the south wall, and the River Gate (or North Gate) on the north side.

• Architect: Unknown (Venetian engineers under Governor Bernardo Venier)
• Style: Renaissance–Venetian medieval
• Built: 1555
• Address: CQF9+VVQ, Kotor, Montenegro

The Sea Gate, also known as the Main Gate or West Gate, is the main entrance to the fortified city of Kotor. The Main Gate is located along the southwest wall, where most visitors arrive in the old town of Kotor. The gate opens directly into Arms Square, the main square of the old town. Historically, the port has been the most common entry point to the town.

The Main Gate was constructed in 1555 and is one of the newest additions to the Venetian-era city fortifications. There are also two sculptures: the winged lion of Saint Mark, the symbol of Venice, and a 15th-century statue of Madonna and Child with Saint Tryphon and Saint Bernard.

Interestingly, the gate’s enormous and heavy stone blocks are so massive that it has sunk over 70 centimeters since its construction.

• Architect: Unknown (Venetian military engineers)
• Style: Late medieval with Venetian fortification modifications
• Built: 1470 (expanded 16th–18th century)
• Address: 85330 Ulica 2 (sjever–jug), Kotor, Montenegro

The South Gate, also known as Gurdic Gate, is situated on a narrow natural strip of land between the steep mountain and the deep water of the bay. Constructed in 1470, the gate and bastion protect the vital connection of the town to the rest of the world. The bastion guards a wooden drawbridge and a system of three passages created at different times.

The South Gate is connected to the North Gate through Craftsmen Street in the old town, forming an essential part of the city’s defensive structure.

This gate is less crowded than other parts of the town, and the narrow streets leading to it make it easy to envision that you have traveled back in time several centuries.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: 1540
• Address: CQGC+FVV, Kotor, Montenegro

River Gate, also known as North Gate, is the quietest entrance to the town, located on the north side along the Skurda River. The gate is connected to the other side of the river by a narrow stone bridge. It was built in 1540 in the Renaissance style, and although unimposing and small, it served as a defensive structure with the river acting as a moat.

The gate is a popular spot for meeting some of the city’s most famous residents. The cats of Kotor are often seen sunbathing on the bridge and around the gate. The view from the stone bridge is also excellent, as you can see the well-protected city walls and the defense structures built into the mountain. It’s a great location for taking pictures; if you look down, you can even spot many fish in the clear river water.

The North Gate leads directly into the winding streets of the old town, and from here, you can easily connect to Craftsmen Street and many of the historic squares in the old town.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Medieval utilitarian
• Built: Unknown (likely 14th–15th century)

Small hidden portal in the fortifications used historically for refuse disposal during sieges. Sometimes referred to in records as a “service gate.”

• Architect: Unknown (Venetian military engineers)
• Style: Renaissance–Venetian
• Built: 1516
• Address: Trg od Drva, Stari Grad, Kotor, Montenegro

The Riva Bastion, located near the northern gates of the Old Town, is one of the oldest fortification structures in Kotor. The Riva Bastion is the most northerly lower fortification, dating back to 1516.

• Architect: Unknown (Venetian military engineers)
• Style: Renaissance–Venetian
• Built: 1539–1540
• Address: Trg od Drva, Stari Grad, Kotor, Montenegro

The Bembo Bastion, located near the northern gates of the Old Town, is one of the oldest fortification structures in Kotor. Adjacent to it is an open-air amphitheater that is active during summers.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 16th–17th century
• Address: 420, Kotor 85330, Montenegro

The Kampana Tower, also known as the Campaign Tower, was constructed during the 16th and 17th centuries.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Medieval with Venetian reconstruction
• Built: 13th–14th century
• Address: Junction of the Skurda River and Bay of Kotor

Citadella Bastion, also known as the Citadel, is one of the oldest fortifications in the Kotor region. It was built between the 13th and 14th centuries at the confluence of the Skurda River and the bay.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance military
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Trg od Oružja, Kotor, Montenegro

Tower of the City Guard, aka The Town Guard Tower (Toranj Gradske Straže), is located on Trg od Oružja.

• Architect: Unknown (Venetian military engineers)
• Style: Renaissance–Venetian
• Built: 16th–17th century
• Address: Southwestern corner of Old Town near the Sea Gate

Valier Bastion, aka Bastion Valier, was built from the 16th to 17th century. It protected the Sea Gate, which was opposite the port.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 16th–17th century
• Address: CQFC+G7F, Kotor, Montenegro

Corner defensive bastion on the seaward side of the walls.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian round bastion
• Built: 1470
• Address: Near Gurdic Gate, south end of Old Town

Bastion Gurdic aka Gurdic Bastion

The Gurdic Gate, once of great strategic importance, is guarded by a round bastion also named Gurdić. It was erected during the administration of Albert Bertucci Gabriel, so the coat of arms of his family adorns the walls.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 16th–17th century
• Address: Lower slope of San Giovanni Hill

The St. Rocco Emplacement is an inner emplacement that serves as the first point of communication on the hill. It was constructed between the 16th and 17th centuries and includes a building for soldiers and cannons, along with a water cistern.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military (semi-circular platform)
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Slopes of San Giovanni Hill

St. Joseph Lunette is a semi-circular artillery platform built in the 16th century to control the town and lower emplacements. It includes a partially buried warehouse.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque military
• Built: 17th–18th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill fortifications

The St. Mark Emplacement underwent various modifications and additions in the 17th and 18th centuries. There is a stone block with the name of the emplacement enclosed in a Baroque frame. Additionally, a niche is present where a plaque indicating the year of construction could have been installed.

Posto Soranzo

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 15th–18th century
• Address: Upper slopes of San Giovanni Hill

The Small Fortress, also known as Saranco or “Posto Soranzo,” is one of the largest and most significant fortifications on the hill. It was constructed between the 15th and 18th centuries and was primarily a barracks with a ground-floor artillery warehouse, first-floor facilities for soldiers, and second-floor facilities for officers. The fortress also had a casemate called “Casamata Soranzo.” In 1768, the fortress underwent extensive renovations, as evidenced by the stone inscription.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 18th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Related to Small Fortress; alternate spelling “Soranzo.”

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 1768
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

The Renier Emplacement, named after the proveditor who controlled the works, was built in 1768. It features walls with gunports and loopholes above them, including narrow ones and larger semicircular ones for long guns (arquebuses).

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 18th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Elevated artillery platform controlling access to the upper fortress.

Castel San Giovanni

• Architect: Unknown (Illyrian origins, later Byzantine & Venetian reconstructions)
• Style: Medieval stone fortifications
• Built: 12th–13th century (core); rebuilt 15th century
• Address: Rd to the Fort of St. Ivan, Špiljari, Montenegro

The mountain behind Kotor city is known as Saint John Mountain, and it is home to St. John’s Castel (Castel San Giovanni), aka the Illyrian Fort. The castle, which stands 280 meters above the bay, is one of the oldest fortifications in Kotor. It was originally fortified in the Illyrian times and later reconstructed by Emperor Justinian I in the sixth century.

The stone fort was most likely built in the 12th to 13th century, although there are indications that it existed during antiquity and the Byzantine period. The oldest written documents, such as descriptions by Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus, refer to the upper town of Kotor and mention a fortress or castle on the hill. The castle acquired its current appearance in the 15th century and underwent several reconstructions afterward.

The fortress offers breathtaking views, making it the perfect spot to take in the historic town.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill fortifications, Kotor, Montenegro

Named after the city’s patron saint; part of the hillside defensive line protecting the upper castle.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian utilitarian
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Within San Giovanni Hill fortifications

Structure for storing gunpowder safely away from residential areas; thick stone walls for blast containment.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Elevated position used for medium-range artillery.

aka Pelegrin Position

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Positioned to oversee a key approach path to the fortress.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Named after Venetian governor Priuli.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Named for the Venetian noble Loredan family; part of the mid-slope defense network.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Defensive tower complementing Loredan Emplacement.

• aka Kontarini Tower
• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Named after the Venetian noble Contarini family; lookout and defensive structure.

aka St. Jerome Post

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Controls sight lines over lower town approaches.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Likely named for a Venetian commander; small cannon platform.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Cliffside of San Giovanni Hill

Perched on steep cliff (“precipizio” in Italian), ideal for controlling approaches from below.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Named after St. Stephen; provided artillery support to upper fortress.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

Linked to monastery presence in Kotor; defensive firing position.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military
• Built: 17th century
• Address: San Giovanni Hill

The origin of the name is unclear; part of outer defenses.

aka Our Lady of Remedy

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Romanesque
• Built: 1518
• Address: CQFF+P7W, Rd to the Fort of St. Ivan, Kotor, Montenegro

The Church of Our Lady of Health, also known as the Church of Our Lady of Remedy, is a Roman Catholic church that belongs to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kotor. It is located on the slope of St. John Mountain and was finished in the year 1518. Visitors must climb over 650 stairs to reach the church since it is not accessible by any other means.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Simple vernacular stone chapels
• Built: 18th century (icons dated to late 1700s)
• Address: Pilgrim path to Church of Our Lady of Health

The Small Chapels are located on the pilgrim road that leads to the Church of Our Lady of Health. These chapels used to contain four icons that dated back to the second half of the 18th century. However, these icons were later transferred to the church itself.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Romanesque and Byzantine
• Built: 1166
• Address: Kotor, Montenegro

St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, also known as St. Tripun’s Cathedral, is a remarkable and imposing structure in the city, sometimes referred to as the Kotor Cathedral. The cathedral’s history dates back to 809 when Venetian merchants brought relics from Constantinople. A local citizen constructed a church here to display the artifacts which were mentioned in the writings of Byzantine Emperor Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus. The only evidence of the first church was found in these writings until archaeologists discovered new evidence in 1987.

The cathedral was built in the Romanesque and Byzantine styles and was completed in 1166. Over the centuries, it suffered significant damage from several earthquakes. As a result, the building’s style changed with each repair and restoration, occasionally revealing elements of the original structure. However, it was not until the 1979 earthquake that the building was reconstructed to preserve the original 1166 style.

Inside the cathedral, you’ll find a Ciborium from 1362, which dominates the cathedral. Additionally, there are many paintings from medieval times and a reliquary containing numerous relics from the 15th to the 18th centuries.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Romanesque
• Built: 1263–16th century
• Address: Kotor, Montenegro

The Church of St. Paul is a Romanesque church built between 1263 and the 16th century. Inside the church, there are many frescoes that date back to the 15th century.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Near St. John’s Hill, Kotor, Montenegro

The Church of St. Joseph is located near St. John’s Hill. It is most renowned for its stunning altar, designed by the artist Cabianca. The floor is made up of several tombstones bearing the coats of arms of notable local families.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Roman and Byzantine
• Built: 1195
• Address: Trg Sv. Luke, Kotor 85330, Montenegro

Saint Luke’s Church, which features Roman and Byzantine architecture, was first constructed in 1195 as a Catholic church and is one of the oldest buildings in Kotor. The structure is one of the few buildings in the town that hasn’t been damaged by earthquakes, including the most recent one in 1979.

The small church is rich in history and artifacts. Some of the original frescoes from the 12th century remain. Additionally, you can observe two beautiful iconostases, one from the 17th century and another from the 18th century. The church’s floor is constructed from tomb panels.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque Orthodox
• Built: 1747
• Address: Kotor, Montenegro

The chapel of St. Spyridon was adjoined to the north side of Saint Luke’s Church in 1747.

Church of St. Mary aka Church of St. Mary of the River aka Church of St. Ozana

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Romanesque
• Built: 1221
• Address: Kotor, Montenegro

The Church of St. Mary was constructed on the location of an ancient Christian Episcopal basilica in the early 13th century. Its structure is a remarkable specimen of Romanesque architecture. Visitors can also see the relics of St. Ozana, which are kept inside.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Gothic
• Built: 15th century
• Address: Kotor, Montenegro

Small oratory within Old Town.

St. Anna’s Church aka Church of Saint Anne

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Romanesque with Gothic frescoes
• Built: End of 12th – early 14th century
• Address: CQGC+3PG, Kotor, Montenegro

The Church of St. Ana was constructed in the late 12th century. Its facade has an intriguing arrangement of frescoes that depict St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers. Inside are more frescoes by Lovro Marinov Dobricevic in the 15th century.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Byzantine Revival
• Built: 1902–1909
• Address: Street 1 (east–west), Stari Grad Kotor, Montenegro

Despite its Byzantine style, the Church of Saint Nicholas was built from 1902 to 1909. It replaced the 1810 church that was destroyed by fire in 1896, and the site was previously occupied by a 16th-century monastery. The church is a Serbian Orthodox congregation and is identifiable by the Serbian flag hanging over the main entrance. It is framed by two large bell towers with black domes adorned with gold crosses gifted by Russia.

You’ll find a collection of stunning silver pieces inside the church, such as candle holders and chandeliers. The iconostasis, made by Czech painter Frantisek Ziegler in 1908, is impressive. Despite the embellishments, the church remains relatively unadorned, as is the norm in Orthodox churches. The plain grey walls are illuminated by simple stained glass panels, creating a calming and mystical ambiance.

Monastery and Church of St. Clare aka St. Clara’s Church and Monastery

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 13th–14th century
• Address: CQGC+65Q, Ulica 1 (istok–zapad), Kotor, Montenegro

The Church of St. Clara attracts many visitors to admire its beautiful Baroque altar sculpted by Francesco Cabianca. Additionally, the complex houses a rich library filled with excellent old books.

St. Francis Church with Cloister aka Monastery of St. Francis

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: CQFC+4M5, Ulica 2 (sjever–jug), Kotor, Montenegro

Includes cloister; formerly housed friars.

St. Michael’s Church with Lapidarium

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Romanesque–Gothic
• Built: 13th–14th century
• Address: CQGC+27W, Kotor, Montenegro

The Church of St. Michael was built in the late 14th century on the grounds of a former Benedictine monastery. The church houses a range of stone monuments that visitors can explore in addition to the building itself.

aka Providur’s Palace

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: 17th–18th century
• Address: Square of Arms, Kotor, Montenegro

The Prince’s Palace (Providur’s Palace) is a remarkable 18th-century building that dominates the surrounding area. Its unique architectural design, characterized by its simple yet elegant details, including the brackets supporting the long balcony, ranks it as one of the most beautiful Renaissance examples of Kotor architecture.

The building has undergone several changes in purpose throughout its history. Initially, it served as the residence of the Venetian Governor, but in 1788, it was transformed into barracks with military warehouses. Due to its elongated shape, the Prince’s Palace is very susceptible to seismic activity. In 1979, an earthquake almost destroyed the building, but it has since been renovated and restored to its former glory.

Palata Bizanti

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance with Baroque elements
• Built: 14th century (original); 17th century (reconstruction)
• Address: Stari Grad 327, Kotor 85339, Montenegro

The Bizanti Palace (Palata Bizanti) was built in the 14th century. It underwent significant reconstruction after the devastating earthquake of 1667. The palace is a prime example of Renaissance architecture with Baroque style elements. The building still displays the initials and coat of arms of its previous owner, Nikola Bizanti.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Gothic (portal)
• Built: 1776
• Address: CQFC+R3G, Kotor, Montenegro

The Beskuca Palace was built in the mid-18th century and is renowned for its stunning portal, which is a masterpiece of floral Gothic architecture. The palace was originally owned by the Beskucas, a noble family that gained their wealth and influence through naval commerce. During the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the palace was used as a courthouse. Today, the palace is owned by the city authorities.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Gothic–Renaissance
• Built: 14th century (rebuilt after 1667)
• Address: Trg Od Brašna, Kotor, Montenegro

The noble family Buca also built a palace on Flour Square in the 14th century, but it was destroyed in the earthquake of 1667. The building was rebuilt afterward, and it is now divided into three portions.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance–Baroque
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Ulica 2 (sjever–jug), Kotor, Montenegro

The Pima Palace is located on Flour Square. This stunning palace from the 17th century is easily recognizable thanks to its long Baroque balustrade. The building showcases a splendid example of Renaissance-Baroque architecture.

The home was once the base of the noble Pima family, whose members included famous poets Jerome and Bernard. Additionally, Louis Pima was a professor at the University of Padua. The Pima family coat of arms still adorns the main portal.

The palace has been damaged by many earthquakes over the centuries. It was completely rebuilt after a major one in 1667 and had to be reconstructed again after the earthquake that hit in 1979. It now serves as a popular bar.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Gothic
• Built: 14th and 17th centuries
• Address: CQFC+PGP, Kotor, Montenegro

The Drago Palace was built in the 14th century, but it had to undergo renovations twice due to earthquakes in 1667 and 1979. The palace is adorned with dragons and is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture. Currently, it serves as the Regional Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments.

aka Grgurina Palace

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Boka Fleet Square, Kotor, Montenegro

The Grgurina Family Palace, also known as Gregorina Palace, is a stunning Baroque building constructed during the 18th Century. It is situated in Boka Fleet Square and now serves as the home of the Maritime Museum. At the entrance of the palace, you will find two cannons that symbolize the never-ending battle between seamen and pirates.

The Maritime Museum of Montenegro in Kotor originated from the collection of the “Boka Marine” Fraternity, founded around 1880 and made public in 1900. The collection gradually expanded, and in 1938, it was re-organized and opened to visitors on the first floor of the current Museum building. It was not until the end of World War II, between 1949 and 1952, that the entire building, a Baroque palace that belonged to the noble Grgurina family from the early 18th century, was fully restored and adapted to suit the Museum’s requirements.

Unfortunately, the disastrous earthquake of April 15, 1979, caused significant damage to the museum building and disrupted its regular activities. Between 1982 and 1984, conservation and restoration efforts were completed, and after five years of renovation, the Museum resumed its operations.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque–Renaissance mix
• Built: End of 17th century
• Address: Next to Church of Saint Luke, Kotor, Montenegro

The Lombardic Palace is a three-story mansion built in the 18th century that belonged to a wealthy family. It is situated next to the Church of Saint Luke.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Renaissance
• Built: 16th century
• Address: Trg od Drva, Kotor, Montenegro

The Grubonja Palace is on Trg od Drva next to the entrance to St. Ivan Fortress. The building is famous for its distinct emblem of the pharmacy, established in the 14th century. You can see the Coat of Arms of Pharmacy dated 1826.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Italian Baroque
• Built: 18th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

The Vrachien Palace is a fantastic example of traditional Italian Baroque architecture. Built in the 18th Century, it first served as a home for the Vrachien family, an influential dynasty in Cattaro since medieval times. The palace is worth a visit to see its remarkably well-preserved interior.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Neoclassical vernacular
• Built: 19th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Represents 19th-century Kotor domestic architecture.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque–vernacular
• Built: 18th–19th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Traditional residence of the Macchin family.

aka Austrian Prison

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Austro-Hungarian military architecture
• Built: 19th century
• Address: CQFC+RQF, Kotor, Montenegro

Served as detention facility during Austro-Hungarian rule.

aka Arm’s Storage

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military architecture
• Built: 1420
• Address: Square of Arms, Kotor, Montenegro

Former military arsenal and shipyard; key to Kotor’s maritime defense.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque and Gothic
• Built: 1602
• Address: Square of the Arms, Kotor, Montenegro

The Clock Tower in Arms Square dates back to the 17th century and boasts a striking blend of Baroque and Gothic architecture, which lends it an air of antiquity. The tower leans slightly to the west due to the earthquake damage it sustained.

aka Napoleon’s Theatre

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Neoclassical military utilitarian
• Built: 1762
• Address: CQG9+5R6, Kotor, Montenegro

The Old Town Hall, also known as Napoleon’s Theatre, was initially constructed in 1762 as a military and food storage. However, during the French occupation in 1810, it was transformed into a theatre, becoming one of the first theatres in the Balkans. It continued as a theatre until the late 19th century. In the 20th century, the building was used as the Town Hall. Currently, it serves as the reception area of Hotel Cattaro. Sadly, the theatre’s facade facing the square was destroyed during the 1979 earthquake.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian stone architecture
• Built: 13th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Historic school building; later adapted for various uses.

aka Town Command

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Neoclassical
• Built: 19th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Former Austro-Hungarian administrative building.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian civic architecture
• Built: 17th–18th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Houses centuries of municipal and maritime records.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Vernacular 19th century
• Built: 19th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Headquarters of the city’s historic marching band.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th–18th century
• Address: Pjaceta Karampana, Kotor, Montenegro

Karampana Fountain aka Old Fountain Karampana is a public well where the community collected their drinking water until 1917. The well also served as a meeting place where community members would chit-chat and gossip.

(Former Episcopal Residence)

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque–vernacular
• Built: 19th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Now used as music school and court building.

(Bokelian Navy Head Offices)

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Neoclassical civic
• Built: 19th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Headquarters for the historic Boka Navy fraternity.

(Cinema and City Library)

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque–vernacular
• Built: 17th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Former church; later repurposed as cinema and library.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Vernacular stone construction
• Built: 19th–20th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Now serves as art exhibition space.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military architecture
• Built: 1769
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Now houses cultural events and performances.

aka Venetian Military Barracks

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian military utilitarian
• Built: 1765
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Barracks for Venetian soldiers; now adapted for civic use.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Modern adaptation in historic setting
• Built: 20th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Outdoor venue for concerts and theatre.

(Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management)

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Austro-Hungarian civic
• Built: 1863
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Historic educational building; now part of the University of Montenegro.

aka Church of Holy Spirit

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Baroque
• Built: 17th–18th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Former church; now used for musical performances.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: 20th-century functionalist
• Built: 20th century
• Address: Kotor waterfront, Montenegro

Administrative center for Kotor port.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Industrial vernacular
• Built: Early 20th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

First electrical power plant in Kotor.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Romanesque
• Built: 14th century
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Residence of the bishop; significant religious administrative building.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian civic square
• Built: Developed in Middle Ages (14th–15th century)
• Address: Trg od Brašna, Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Flour Square gets its name from its historical use for flour storage. There are three main buildings on Flour Square: Saint Nicholas of Seamen Church, Pima Palace, and Buca Palace.

aka Oružje Square

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian Renaissance–Baroque civic architecture
• Built: Developed 17th century
• Address: Square of Arms, Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

The main town square of Kotor is known as the Arms Square aka Square of Arms (Oružje Square). The square gets its name from the Venetian Arsenal that was located here. Besides the Arsenal, the Prince’s Palace, Town Guard Tower, Sea Gate, Rector’s Palace, Napoleon’s Theatre, and the Clock Tower are located on the square.

Most of the structures around the square date from the 17th century. The Rector’s Palace is presently part of the Hotel Cattaro.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Medieval commercial street
• Built: Middle Ages
• Address: South Gate to North Gate, Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Craftsmen Street runs through the old town, starting from the South Gate and ending at the North Gate. It has always been lined with shops of various tradespeople, including goldsmiths, carpenters, tailors, hatters, shield makers, locksmiths, innkeepers, bakers, and other people who contributed to daily life in the town.

The street also has several monuments commemorating the working man. Additionally, several religious sites are located here, including Santa Anna Church, which dates back to the 12th century and was rebuilt after the 1979 earthquake. Saint Paul’s Church dates back to 1263, and Saint Francis Monastery, built in the 17th century, is also located on this street.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Medieval–Renaissance square
• Built: Middle Ages
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Saint Tryphon’s Square, home to the Saint Tryphon Cathedral, is one of the main squares of the Old Town of Kotor.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian civic
• Built: Middle Ages
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Named for the Grgurina (Gregorina) Palace; maritime trade hub historically.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Medieval public square
• Built: Middle Ages
• Address: Trg Sv. Luke, Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Centered around Saint Luke’s Church; surrounded by residential palaces.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Venetian civic
• Built: Middle Ages
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Museum Square is one of the main squares in the old town of Kotor. Here, you’ll find the Gregorina Palace with Maritime Museum and the Karampana Fountain. Museum Square connects two other historic town squares: Saint Lucas’s Square and Saint Tryphon’s Square.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Medieval public square
• Built: Middle Ages
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Named for historic dairy trade and market.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Vernacular civic
• Built: 20th century adaptation
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Named after historic cinema once operating here.

• Architect: Unknown
• Style: Medieval market square
• Built: Middle Ages
• Address: Old Town Kotor, Montenegro

Historically used as a vegetable market; name reflects produce trade.

Venetian architecture greatly influenced Kotor’s buildings due to the Venetian rule in the region. The Venetians left a lasting mark on structures such as the Venetian Arsenal and various palaces. Their influence can be seen in the symmetrical layouts, intricate facades, and elegant balconies present in many buildings. Kotor’s architectural style beautifully blends elements of Venetian design with the city’s unique identity, creating a charming and culturally rich aesthetic.

In the heart of Kotor, contemporary architecture projects blend seamlessly with the city’s rich historical fabric, offering a glimpse into modern design amidst ancient surroundings. Architects creatively integrate elements that honor the traditional aesthetics while embracing innovative construction techniques. These projects stand as a testament to Kotor’s evolving architectural landscape, showcasing a harmonious coexistence between the old and the new to create a unique visual tapestry that captivates visitors and residents alike.

Want to learn about the history of Kotor with a guide? Book a highly-rated city tour while visiting Kotor!

There are many great places to stay in Kotor. For the best experience, we recommend staying inside the Old Town (the castle marker on the map below is a great square inside the Old Town).

Below is an interactive map with hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.

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