Kotor Architecture

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.

Built: 1470

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.

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.

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Garbage Door

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.

Built: 1539 to 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.

Built: 16th to 17th century

Address: 420, Kotor 85330, Montenegro

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

Built: 13th to 14th century

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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.

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

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Built: 16th to 17th century

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

Built: 16th to 17th century

Address: CQFC+G7F, Kotor, Montenegro

Korner Bastion aka Bastion Corner

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Built: 1470

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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.

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Built: 16th to 17th century

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Built: 15th to 18th century

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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.

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Soranco Emplacement aka Soranzo Emplacement

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Built: 1768

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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).

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Battaglia Emplacement

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Built: 12th to 13th century (original); 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.

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Address: Various

• St. Tryphon Emplacement
• Gunpowder Magazine
• Pedocchio Emplacement
• Peregrino Emplacement aka Pelegrin Position
• Priuli Emplacement
• Loredan Emplacement
• Loredan Tower
• Contarini Tower aka Kontarini Tower
• St. Hieronymus Emplacement aka St. Jerome Post
• Molin Emplacement
• Precipizio Emplacement
• St. Stephen Emplacement
• St. Francis Emplacement (aka post aka position)
• Zen Emplacement

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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.

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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.

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.

Style: Romanesque

Built: 1263 to 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.

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Built: 17th century

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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.

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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.

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Built: 1747

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

Style: Romanesque

Built: 1221

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

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.

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Built: 15th century

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St. John’s Chapel

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Built: end of 12^th to beginning of 14th century

Address: CQGC+3PG, Kotor, Montenegro

St. Anna’s Church aka Church of Saint Anne

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.

Style: Byzantine

Built: 1902 to 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.

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Built: 13th to 14th century

Address: CQGC+65Q, Ulica 1 (istok-zapad), Kotor, Montenegro

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

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.

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Built: 17th century

Address: CQFC+4M5, Ulica 2 (sjever-jug), Kotor, Montenegro

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

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Built: 13th or 14th century

Address: CQGC+27W, Kotor, Montenegro

St. Michael’s Church with Lapidarium

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.

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Style: Renaissance

Built: 17th to 18th century

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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.

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.

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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.

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Built: 14th century

Address: Trg Od Brašna

Buca Palace

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.

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.

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.

Style: Baroque

Built: 18th century

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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.

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Built: end of 17th century

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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.

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Built: 16th century

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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.

Style: Italian Baroque

Built: 18th century

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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.

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Built: 19th century

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Bjeladinovic Family House

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Macchin Family House

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Built: 19th century

Address: CQFC+RQF, Kotor, Montenegro

Old Kotor Prison aka Austrian Prison

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Built: 1420

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Arsenal aka Venetian Arsenal aka Arm’s Storage

Style: Baroque and Gothic

Built: 1602

Address: Square of the Arms, Kotor, Montenegro

Town Clock Tower aka Clock Tower

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.

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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.

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Built: 13th century

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Old Gymnasium

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Built: 19th century

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Town Command aka Municipality of Kotor

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Historical Archive of Kotor

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Built: 19th century

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Kotor Brass Band

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Built: 17th or 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.

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Built: 19th century

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Music School (Building Court Building); Former Episcopal Residence

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Boka Navy Office aka Bokelian Navy Head Offices

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Built: 17th century

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Old Lady of the Angels; Cinema and City Library

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Built: 1769

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Cultural Center (Venetian Military Hospital Building)

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Built: 1765

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Venetian Quarters aka Venetian Military Barracks

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Open Stage aka Open Air Theatre

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Built: 1863

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High School (1863); Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management

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Built: 17th to 20th century

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Concert Hall (Church of Holy Spirit aka St. Spirit Church)

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Built: 14th century

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Bishopric

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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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.

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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.

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.

Book your stay now!

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

Montenegro’s architecture is a unique blend of influences from various cultures and historical periods. The country’s architectural heritage includes a mix of styles, such as Venetian, Ottoman, Byzantine, and modernist architecture. Some notable examples of Montenegrin architecture include the picturesque coastal towns with their red-tiled roofs and narrow streets, medieval fortresses like Kotor’s city walls, elegant palaces, and churches adorned with beautiful frescoes. The diverse architectural landscape of Montenegro reflects its rich history and cultural diversity, making it a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts.

Kotor, Montenegro has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The city was first mentioned in historical records in the 2nd century BC as being part of the Roman Empire. Over the centuries, Kotor was ruled by various powers, including the Byzantine Empire, the Venetian Republic, and the Ottoman Empire.

The architecture of Kotor is a unique blend of various styles influenced by the city’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. The most prominent architectural style in Kotor is Venetian, which is evident in the city’s well-preserved medieval old town. The buildings feature distinct Venetian elements such as Gothic windows, Renaissance facades, and elegant balconies.

The oldest building in Kotor is believed to be the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. This impressive structure dates back to the 12th century and is a prime example of Romanesque architecture. Its sturdy stone walls, ornate sculptures, and elegant rose window make it a gem of Kotor’s architectural heritage. The cathedral also houses valuable relics and treasures, adding to its historical importance. A visit to this ancient masterpiece is a must for anyone interested in exploring Kotor’s rich past.

Kotor is a picturesque city located in Montenegro, not Croatia. Situated on the Adriatic coastline, Kotor is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes.

There are approximately 1,350 steps to reach the top of the Kotor fortress. The climb can be pretty strenuous, but the stunning views from the top make it worth the effort!