Second Natural Magics Are Bay Of Kotor & St John's Fortress

Natural Magics Of Montenegro 2: Second Magic Is Bay Of Kotor And St John’s Fortress

BAY OF KOTOR: The Bay of Kotor, also known as the Boka, is a winding bay of the Adriatic Sea in southwestern Montenegro and the region of Montenegro concentrated around the bay. It is also the southernmost part of the historical region of Dalmatia. The bay has been inhabited since antiquity. Its well-preserved medieval towns off Kotor, Risan, Tivat, Perast, Prcani and Herceg Novi along with their natural surroundings, are major tourist attractions. The nattural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Its numerous Orthodox and Catholic churces and monasteries attract numerous religious pilgrims and other visitors.

ST JOHN'S FORTRESSS: St John's or as the locals call it San Giovanni Fortress is located on top of the Kotor Old Town starting from the east part of the town and going up to 280 meters above sea level. When you are climbing up to the fortress you'll witness a picturesque view of Kotor and the Bay of Kotor. There are 1350 steps going up which may be challenging for some but there are places to rest on the way. If you are determined to go up to the end make sure you have comfortable walking shoes and some water.

On the way up to St John's Fortress you'll run into the church of Church of Our Lady of Remedy at the altitude of 100 meters which dates back to 1518. 

St John's Fortress was built to protect Kotor town from the invaders. The construction started in the 9th century and ended in the 15th century. 

When you reach the top you'll see a hole on the north side which lets you to go to the other side of the wall where there's a small Catholic Church. When you are going down you can follow the trail from here down to the Kotor center. It takes about 2 - 2.5 hours round trip. 

The best time to hike to the fortress is in the morning during summer and at noon between October and April.