THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Before travelling to a new country it’s always smart to learn a few things about the place, to better prepare for what you will encounter, and to gain a greater appreciation of the sites, history, culture, and people.
Here, I’ve put together 20 interesting facts about Montenegro, that I have learned from my recent visit to the country.
1. One of the Youngest Countries
Montenegro is one of the youngest countries in the world, officially named in 2006, when it gained independence from Serbia.
Prior to then, it formed part of the country that was called Yugoslavia.
Montenegro's capital city is Podgorica.
2. The Country's Name
Montenegro means 'Black Mountain', from Venetian Italian dialect.
Named for its dark forests that once covered its mountains.
3. Size and Population
Montenegro is one of the smallest countries in Europe, only 13,812 km2, with a population of approximately 630,000.
4. European
Montenegro is located in Europe, but not part of the European Union, yet.
5. Language
The official language is Montenegrin, as well as Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Albanian.
English and Italian are spoken by some people as well.
6. Alphabet
Montenegrin uses both the Cyrillic and Latin alphabets.
Both are taught at school from a young age.
7. Rakija
Rakija is the traditional Montenegrin drink, a fruit brandy, served after dinner.
8. Cuisine
Montenegrin food has Turkish, Greek and Italian influences. Meat is the most popular food, as well as seafood. Dairy and vegetables are also in abundance.
Montenegrins are very tall, in fact, the 2nd tallest nation in the world, behind Netherlands, according to World Population Review.
10. Tourists
More than 2 million tourists flock to the country each year, including approximately 400 cruise ships.
11. Coastline
The country boasts over 290 kilometres of beautiful Adriatic coastline, with medieval fortresses, villages, bays, beaches, and rugged rocks.
12. Beaches
Montenegro's beaches are considered by many to be the best in Europe, for their scenery, cleanliness and crystal blue waters.
There are secluded coves and lively beachfronts.
Some beaches are pebbled and some sandy.
13. Ladies' Beach
In Ulcinj there is a Ladies' Beach, for women only. It is thought that the high sulphur content of the water here helps with fertility.
Also, some women in Montenegro prefer to swim and sunbathe in privacy, away from men.
14. Mountains
Approximately 80% of Montenegro is mountains, making it one of the most mountainous countries in the world.
The highest mountain is called Bobotov Kuk.
15. Highest Mausoleum
On Mt. Lovćen there is the highest mausoleum in the world of Prince-Bishop Njegoš who lived in the 19th century, a Montenegrin hero and philosopher.
16. Wettest Place in Europe
The village of Crkvice, on the outskirts of the Orjen Mountain, has the highest annual rainfall in Europe, according to World Meteorological Organisation.
17. Fast-Food Chains
There are very few international fast-food chains in Montenegro and in particular, a complete absence of McDonald's.
Local street food is of course, available everywhere.
18. UNESCO Sites
There are 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Montenegro:
1. Kotor Old Town
2. Durmitor National Park, part of the Dinaric Alps
3. Stécci Medieval Graveyards
4. Venetian Works of Defence, 16th and 17th centuries.
19. Cliff-Faced Monastery
There is a monastery with a church situated on a vertical cliff of Mount Ostrog. Built into the mountain's rock, it is a popular pilgrimage site, about 15km from the town of Nikšić.
20. Fortresses of Montenegro
This small country has more than 80 ancient fortresses, built during different eras and under different rulers.
There you have it. These interesting facts about Montenegro should give you plenty of inspiration to visit this small but amazing country. You will find enchanting places and friendly people everywhere you go.
I hope you enjoy visiting Montenegro, as much as I did.
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8 Comments
Although having been twice to Montenegro, I didn’t know all these facts. It’s such a beautiful country, might not be a large country, but I can see more trips in the future for us.
Loved the facts and learned a lot. I was looking at booking a cruise with a stop in Montenegro, so thanks for the info and pictures, The seafood dinner picture looked amazing
The cuisine of Montenegro sounds divine—did you have any favorite dishes?
Good to know these facts, especially about the absence of Mc Donald’s.
Fun list of facts about Montenegro–such a fun country to visit too!
It’s a very popular travel destination from my country so it’s nice to check these facts!
Great post and lovely photos! Interesting that there’s no McDonalds here!
Thank you for the beautiful photography and great information.