Church of Our Lady of the Rocks — Attraction in undefined

"Stepping into the Church of the Lady on the Rocks is like entering a portal to a different time, where art, faith, and history converge in a breathtaking display. From the moment I approached the small, picturesque island on which it sits, I knew I was in for a truly unique experience. The journey itself, a short and scenic boat ride from Perast, sets the tone for the spiritual and aesthetic feast that awaits. The legend of its creation, built stone by stone by local sailors over centuries, is a powerful testament to human devotion and perseverance. You can feel this history in the very walls of the church. Inside, the beauty is overwhelming. The intricate frescoes, the stunning altarpiece by Tripo Kokolja, and the countless votive tablets telling stories of answered prayers create an atmosphere of profound reverence and wonder. I was particularly moved by the tapestry embroidered with the hair of a woman who waited 25 years for her beloved to return—a poignant and heartbreaking symbol of love and faith. What truly makes this place special, however, is not just the art or the history, but the palpable sense of peace that permeates the air. Despite the crowds, there are quiet corners where you can simply sit, reflect, and take in the beauty. The small museum on the upper floor, filled with artifacts and historical items, adds another layer of depth to the visit, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who built and cherished this church. The views from the island are, of course, magnificent, offering a panoramic vista of the Bay of Kotor that will take your breath away. But the true magic lies within the church itself. The Church of the Lady on the Rocks is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a living monument to faith, art, and the enduring power of human spirit. A visit here is not just recommended, it's essential for anyone traveling to Montenegro. A definite five-star experience that I will...

Church of Our Lady of the Rocks

Adventurenegrin DMC - Adventure Sports Co. Posting publicly across Google As a local DMC, one of my favorite experiences to share with guests is a visit to Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela), a true gem of Boka Bay and one of Montenegro’s most recognizable landmarks. Instead of the usual hassle of finding parking in Perast and then arranging a boat to the island, we offer something much more unique—guided kayak and SUP tours that take you directly across the bay to this fascinating cultural site.

The island carries centuries of history and tradition. Built by generations of seafarers who laid stones and even sunken ships to form the base, it is home to the beautiful 17th-century church and museum that preserve the stories of Perast and its people. Local customs, legends, and votive offerings make every corner of the church feel alive with meaning, and the island itself stands as a symbol of perseverance and devotion.

Exploring the island this way is not just about sightseeing—it’s about connecting with history, culture, and the authentic spirit of Perast. And after paddling out and taking in the stories, the experience comes full circle with a taste of local gastronomy that adds yet another layer to the journey.

A little teaser: did you know that each year, on July 22nd, locals celebrate the tradition of “Fašinada,” when boats loaded with rocks are rowed out to the island to reinforce it, just as their ancestors once did? It’s this living heritage that makes Our Lady of the Rocks such a special place to discover.

Of course, having a local guide by your side makes the visit even richer—not only to bring history and culture to life, but also to answer all your questions and share stories you won’t find in...

The Church of Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) is a Catholic church situated on an artificial islet in the Bay of Kotor, near the town of Perast, Montenegro. The islet was created over centuries by local seamen who laid rocks and sank old ships at the site after each successful voyage, a tradition that continues today with the annual Fasinada event every July 22. According to legend, the islet originated after two fishermen found an icon of the Madonna and Child on a rock in the sea, which inspired the creation of the island and the church. The church is noted for its baroque architecture, blue dome, and richly decorated interior. Inside, there are 68 paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a renowned 17th-century baroque artist from Perast, including "The Death of the Virgin". The main altar features a revered icon of the Virgin Mary, painted on cedar wood by Lovro Marinov Dobričević, and is surrounded by statues crafted by Venetian sculptor Francesco Gaia. The church also contains Byzantine-style frescoes and a 300-year-old organ. The church remains active, hosting weddings, baptisms, and masses. Attached to the church is a museum with religious artefacts and art, as well as a small gift shop. Be aware that a lot of individuals offer free parking if you purchase a boat ride to visit the tiny island. Some are registered, and some are not, so do your research first. We went for a company called Pulena Boats (also found on Google Maps) and paid €20 each to include entrance to the church and museum + all day...