KOTOR, MONTENEGRO

Departing from the pier we will proceed to Kotor, a town in Montenegro on the gulf of Yugoslavia to begin our walking tour. Although its date of origin is uncertain, it probably developed from a smaller settlement of Catarum in early first century AD.

Departing from the pier we will proceed to Kotor, a town in Montenegro on the gulf of Yugoslavia to begin our walking tour. Although its date of origin is uncertain, it probably developed from a smaller settlement of Catarum in early first century AD. The strategic significance and wealth of the town made it a target for would-be conquerors. Essentially the city of Kotor retained its medieval appearance. The Palace belonging to the Rector, patrician mansions dating from the 16th-18th centuries, the cathedral and churches from the 12th to 18th centuries testify to the skill and enthusiasm of the builders and the high artistic standards of Kotor. The Cathedral of St. Tryphon (sv.Tripun) was originally built in 9th century – legend has it that the relics of St.Tryphon were transferred to the church, whereupon this saint become the town’s patron. The interior contains a 14th century ciborium and a golden altarpiece with reliefs of saints, the work of an anonymous Kotor goldsmith in the 15th century. The treasury has a valuable collection of gold and silver objects, the work of 18th century Kotor craftsmen. Our next stop will be at the Maritime Museum, which developed from the collection of maritime objects founded in the 1880s. Housed in the 17th century Grgurina mansion, the museum features the collection of ship models, instruments, weapons, maps, charters and other documents, making this an institution of outstanding scientific and historical interest. Continuing by coach, we will pass by the coastal town of St. Stephan, a fortified island settlement near Budva. The legend is that it was built in the early 15th century after a battle in which the Pastrovic clansmen overcame the crews of several Turkish galleys. The fortified town was of economic importance providing storage and protection for produce sold at markets along the Adriatic coast and in Venice. Following the panoramic view of St. Stephan, we will re-board our coach for a short journey to Budva, the oldest settlement in the area. Many archaeological finds provide evidence of the town’s long history – some date to the 2nd century BC. The walk through this old city gives us the opportunity to learn more about the history and legends surrounding this charming town. After the walking tour of Budva, we will have some leisure time, before returning to the ship in Kotor. This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking and is not recommended for passengers using wheelchairs.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES