Our Lady of the Rocks, Perast

Nestled in the serene Bay of Kotor, Our Lady of the Rocks is a picturesque islet off the coast of Perast in Montenegro. This man-made island, steeped in legend and history, is a remarkable sight that captures the heart of every visitor.

According to local lore, the islet began its formation in the mid-15th century when seamen found an icon of the Madonna and Child on a rock in the sea. After the discovery, every time a ship returned safely from a voyage, sailors would lay a rock in the spot and gradually, the islet emerged. Over time, the tradition expanded to include sinking old ships filled with rocks, and thus Our Lady of the Rocks was born.

Atop the islet stands a charming Roman Catholic church, also named Our Lady of the Rocks, which was built in 1632 and is adorned with 68 frescoes painted by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th-century Baroque artist from Perast. The church also houses a fine collection of silver votive tablets and a renowned embroidered tapestry made by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović, a local woman who spent 25 years crafting it, using her own hair.

The island is accessible by boat, with frequent trips from Perast making it easily reachable for tourists. The scenic boat ride adds to the allure of the visit, offering panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding mountains.