Kotor Fortress

"Perched atop the hill behind Kotor, at an elevation of 260 meters (or 850 feet) above sea level, the Fortress of Saint John stands as a sentinel overlooking the city. This historical fortification is accessible via a winding path comprising approximately 1,300 steps, rewarding adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Visitors are treated to stunning vistas of the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town, the meandering ria, and the expansive pine-clad mountains that stretch into the horizon. The fortress derives its name from the Church of Saint John the Baptist, located within its main citadel. This church is first mentioned in historical records dating back to 1440 and was originally built to serve the needs of the army stationed to guard the city walls. The ramparts of the fortress extend over four kilometers in total length, with thickness varying from two to sixteen meters and heights soaring up to twenty meters in certain areas, showcasing the impressive engineering skills of its builders. Constructed over several centuries, the fortress and its ramparts evolved into a formidable complex of fortifications. The origins of the city walls can be traced back to the reign of the Roman Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, although the current appearance of the fortress largely took shape during the 17th century. This blend of architectural styles and historical periods contributes to the fortress's significance as a cultural and historical landmark. As you ascend towards the fortress, you will come across the quaint Church of Our Lady of Health, built in the 1500s as a safeguard against the plague. This small church adds to the rich tapestry of the site’s history and offers a moment of respite for climbers. Along the way, you will also encounter four chapels that once housed paintings depicting feasts dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary; these artworks are now preserved within the church itself."

"If I had to recommend one thing in Kotor, it would be hiking to its fortress. This is where you will see Montenegro's most iconic view. I have to warn you, it is not for the faint hearted. There is 1350 steps to climb, it's most likely going to be very hot with no shade, very crowded, and the switchbacks will seem to be endless. But I promise that your efforts will be rewarded! There are a couple of nice views already along the way up, but the best are obviously at the very top when you have a full panorama of Kotor Bay. "

"Hike up to see a beautiful view of Kotor and explore the old fortress! There are two ways to get to the top... one you'll pay a little fee and walk up about 1,350 steps, while the other is free but will take you up about 70 switchbacks to an entrance by ladder through a window of the fortress. You choose!"