Question 1

What is Our Lady of the Rocks?

Accepted Answer

Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) is a man-made island and Roman Catholic church in the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro. It was founded in 1452 by the people of Perast and is one of the two islands visible from the town. The other island, St. George, is natural and closed to the public.

Question 2

How long is the boat ride from Perast?

Accepted Answer

The boat ride from Perast to Our Lady of the Rocks takes approximately 5 minutes. You'll typically spend 30–45 minutes on the island before returning.

Question 3

Can you swim at Our Lady of the Rocks?

Accepted Answer

Swimming is not permitted at the island, which is a protected cultural monument. For swimming, try the Perast waterfront or nearby pebble beaches in the Bay of Kotor.

Question 4

Is Our Lady of the Rocks open in winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the island is open year-round, 365 days a year. Winter hours are 9:00–14:00. The island may close temporarily during severe storms.

Question 5

How much does it cost to visit?

Accepted Answer

The boat transfer costs €3–5 per person (each way). Church entry is approximately €2. Children under 6 are free. A guided boat tour starts from €15 per person.

Question 6

Do I need to book the boat in advance?

Accepted Answer

Basic transfers are available on the spot from the Perast waterfront. If you want a private guided tour, it's best to book in advance, especially in summer.

Question 7

What should I wear to visit the church?

Accepted Answer

Modest clothing is required inside the church — shoulders and knees should be covered. In summer, bring sun protection for the boat crossing. In winter, bring a jacket as it can be cold on the water.

Question 8

How do I get to Perast, Montenegro?

Accepted Answer

Perast is a 20-minute drive from Kotor and 1.5 hours from Dubrovnik, Croatia. Buses run along the Adriatic coastal road. Taxis from Kotor cost around €20. There is limited parking on the Perast waterfront.

Question 9

What is the difference between St. George and Lady of the Rocks?

Accepted Answer

Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) is a man-made island open to visitors with a church and museum. St. George island, next to it, is a natural island with a Benedictine monastery that is closed to the public.

Question 10

What is Fašinada?

Accepted Answer

Fašinada is an annual festival held every July 22 in Perast. Locals parade their boats to Our Lady of the Rocks and throw rocks into the sea to maintain the man-made island, honouring a 500-year-old tradition dating back to the island's founding in 1452.

Question 11

Who painted the church interior?

Accepted Answer

The interior of Our Lady of the Rocks contains 68 paintings by Baroque master Tripo Kokolja, created in the early 18th century. The paintings primarily depict the Virgin Mary and biblical scenes.

Question 12

Is the Bay of Kotor a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor, which includes the Bay of Kotor (Boka Bay), Perast, and the Old Town of Kotor, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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