Visit Our Lady of the Rocks

Our Lady of the Rocks is a captivating islet and Roman Catholic church, uniquely created by generations of local seamen who kept an ancient oath. According to legend, the islet was formed over centuries by sailors dropping a rock upon returning from each successful voyage. The chapel houses an impressive collection of 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th-century Baroque artist, and a tapestry embroidered with gold and silver thread by a local woman, which took her 25 years to complete while waiting for her beloved to return from sea.

Things to Know

Welcome to the enchanting Our Lady of the Rocks, a serene sanctuary built on a man-made island in the breathtaking Bay of Kotor. Discover a place where legend, faith, and stunning Adriatic views converge.

Opening Hours

Monday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Reserve Now

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks is a unique experience when planning a trip to Kotor, Montenegro. This man-made island, located in the Bay of Kotor, holds a church filled with intriguing artworks and a rich history that draws visitors year-round. It offers an opportunity to explore one of the most iconic activities in Kotor, Montenegro, blending natural beauty with cultural significance. The island is easily accessible by boat from Kotor town, making it a convenient addition to any itinerary. For those looking to explore cheap activities in Kotor, Montenegro, taking a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks is both affordable and rewarding. Many travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the bay, as well as the chance to see the famous votive paintings inside the chapel. As part of the array of activities in Kotor, Montenegro, this visit is a great way to immerse oneself in local tradition without straining the budget. Beyond the island, the surrounding area offers plenty of other cheap activities, perfect for travel enthusiasts eager to discover things to do in Kotor, Montenegro. Fly to Kotor, Montenegro to enjoy easy access to this fascinating site along with other attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, photography, or simply soaking up the panoramic views, Our Lady of the Rocks is a memorable stop. Frequent travelers will find that combining this with other cheap activities in Kotor, Montenegro adds richness to their trip without adding much cost. Using an AI Travel Agent or Trip Planner App can help map out a seamless journey, highlighting the best activities and cheap flights to Kotor, Montenegro. Overall, the island’s location and the welcoming boating experience make it a great inclusion for any itinerary focused on AI travel and meaningful local exploration.

Amenities

Small Chapel/Museum
Gift Shop
Boat Access Only

Reviews

Excellent

281 reviews

A beautiful and unique place with an incredible story. The boat ride over is lovely and the chapel itself is small but full of interesting history and artifacts. The views of the bay from the island are breathtaking.

Location

FMPQ+PF5, Perast, Montenegro

Annual Visitor Count

150,000

Our Lady of the Rocks is a major draw for tourists exploring the Bay of Kotor, attracting an estimated 150,000 visitors annually. Its unique origin story, beautiful art, and picturesque setting make it a must-see destination, contributing significantly to the region's cultural tourism.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasantly warm and the summer crowds have thinned. July and August can be very busy and hot. Mornings are ideal to avoid the peak afternoon tour boats and to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the best light for photography across the bay.

Accessibility Notes

Accessibility is limited due to the nature of the attraction. Reaching the islet requires a boat transfer from Perast, which may involve stepping onto a sometimes unsteady dock. The chapel itself is on a single level, but the island's pathways can be uneven. The small size of the chapel and museum may be challenging for larger wheelchairs or mobility scooters. It is not considered fully wheelchair accessible.

Cultural/Religious Notes

As an active place of worship, modest attire is recommended when visiting the chapel; covering shoulders and knees is respectful. Visitors should speak quietly and refrain from loud conversations inside. A small donation is customary. The local Fašinada festival on July 22nd is a significant cultural event where locals row boats to the islet and throw rocks into the sea, continuing the tradition that built the island.

Famous Events and Dates

The most famous event is the Fašinada festival held every year on July 22nd. This traditional event sees local residents and boaters from the surrounding area take to the water in a procession of decorated boats. They throw rocks into the sea around the islet, symbolically enlarging it and honoring the ancient pledge. It is a vibrant and deeply symbolic celebration of local culture and history.

Historical Significance

The site's history dates back to the 15th century, rooted in a legend where local fishermen found an icon of the Madonna and Child on a rock in the sea. They vowed to build a church upon that spot, leading to the centuries-old tradition of dropping rocks after successful voyages. The resulting islet and its beautiful Baroque church stand as a monumental testament to the region's deep maritime heritage and the faith of its people, surviving earthquakes and wars.

Kid/Family Friendly

The attraction can be interesting for older children who appreciate history and boat rides, but there are no specific facilities or activities designed for young children. The small, museum-like environment requires quiet behavior. The boat ride is the most exciting part for kids. Families should supervise children closely near the water's edge on the islet, as there are no barriers.

Photography Allowed

Photography is generally permitted inside the chapel, but the use of flash is prohibited to protect the ancient artworks and artifacts. Visitors are asked to be respectful and avoid taking photos during religious services if one is occurring. The exterior of the chapel and the panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains are spectacular and highly photogenic from all angles.

Time Required to Explore

A visit typically requires 1 to 1.5 hours in total. This includes the short boat ride to and from the islet (about 10 minutes each way) and approximately 30-45 minutes to explore the small chapel, view the artwork and tapestry, and walk around the perimeter of the islet to take in the magnificent 360-degree views of the Bay of Kotor.

Transportation and Accessibility

The islet is accessible only by boat. Small taxiboats regularly depart from the waterfront in the town of Perast for a small fee. Perast itself is connected to the larger cities of Kotor and Herceg Novi by local buses and taxis. There is limited parking available in Perast. The journey from Kotor to Perast by car or bus takes approximately 20-30 minutes along a scenic coastal road.

Weather Sensitivity

The experience is highly weather-dependent. Boat transfers to the islet may be canceled during poor weather, high winds, or rough seas, making the site inaccessible. Sunny, clear days provide the best experience and the most stunning views of the bay and mountains. It is advisable to check the weather forecast and sea conditions before planning your trip, especially outside the peak summer season.

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