Length of Montenegro coastline. Montenegro geographical location of Montenegro

Current Montenegro is one of the most widespread tourist places among European countries. The natural luxury of this delightful country, comfortable climate, many historical and architectural treasures and low prices attract more and more tourists to the country of black mountains and white beaches.

Montenegro is famous for its natural treasures, including the Shassko and Skadar lakes of a stunning azure-blue color, national park, inside which there is a known Black Lake and the colorful canyons of the Tara and Morač rivers,

Every corner of Montenegro is interesting in its own way, and all exotic places defy description, so this delightful country is a must-see. The country most likely acquired its name (Black Mountain) thanks to the impenetrable black forests, which in the Middle Ages covered Mount Lovcen and the rest of the alpine hills of ancient Montenegro.

Tourist country

Montenegro today is a very popular Eastern European country in terms of tourism. Mountain landscapes, the clearest Adriatic Sea, optimal temperature - that’s why holidays here are so popular. Even when it is cloudy in most resorts, the weather in Montenegro always pleases vacationers with its mild Mediterranean climate. In summer, the air warms up to +40 °C, and the water temperature on the coast of Montenegro reaches +25 °C. What else do you need to have a great time? Meanwhile, winter in the mountains is snowy and moderately cold, which favors the development of ski tourism.

The number of those who dream of spending their holidays in Montenegro, relaxing or improving their health is constantly growing, many people from all over Europe even dream of purchasing real estate here for this purpose - after all, with wonderful natural conditions housing prices here are lower than in most other countries.

Geographical location

Montenegro is located in the south of Europe, on the southwestern side of the Balkans. Its southern border is with Albania, in the west with Bosnia and Herzegovina, and on the northern side its neighbors are Serbia and Croatia. The area of ​​Montenegro is geographically divided into three regions: mountains in the northeastern part of the country, the shore of the Adriatic Sea, as well as the flat basin of Lake Skadar and the valley landscape around it. The length of the coast reaches 293.5 km. The state owns 14 sea islands.

In the north-west there is a large inlet - Boka Kotorska. The main beaches are located in Montenegro - a colorful country that is bathed in the waters of the Adriatic. The coastal line occupies approximately a third of the state's border. Rocky mountains, colorful architecture and generous nature - this is what Montenegro is famous for today. Mountain tourism no less fascinating than relaxing on the seashores. Durmitor National Park reveals to tourists the delightful colors of the Black Mountains. The path to them is more convenient and interesting through the town of Pluzine. On the way you can see the Piva artificial reservoir, with a natural emerald hue. You can go through tunnels carved into the rocks; they contain winding roads in the form of serpentines. Here you can find stunning views of the Black Lake, the canyon of the Tara River, and the Dzhurzhevich Bridge between two mountain shores.

The country is characterized by cozy towns with small houses and huge natural expanses. The most famous cities among travelers are Podgorica, Kotor, Budva, Perast, Petrovets, Cetinje.

Capital

The city of Podgorica is the largest locality Montenegro, which is the center of the economy and industry of the state. Tourists in the city are attracted by the narrow streets and unique ancient buildings of the ancient districts of Stara Varos and Drach. Most fascinating places, which should be visited are: Church of St. George, Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, Museum natural history, National Theater, Njegusa Palace and Art Gallery. From modern facilities- The Millennium Bridge, stretching across the Morač River. Not far from Podgorica you can see the ruins of the ancient fortress Medun, which existed in the 3rd century BC. e.

Population

It has about 627,000 inhabitants. The diversity of the population is distributed according to ethnic composition in the following way:

• Montenegrins - 43%;
• Serbs - 32%;
• Bosnians - 8%;
• Albanians - 5%;
• other nationalities: Croats, Russians, gypsies.

The official language in the country is Montenegrin, which is a Slavic language and therefore very close to Russian and Ukrainian languages. The most popular foreign languages ​​are German and English.

The city of Tsetne, located in a colorful valley at the foot of the Lovcen mountain, is rightfully considered the historical and cultural capital. A complex of historical, cultural and architectural attractions create a true museum under open air. Among the most visited places by tourists, the following stand out: the Bilyard Palace, Royal Palace Nicholas I, Vlaška Church, art, ethnographic and many different museums. You should definitely get to the National Park and see the royal family estate of the Petrovichs in the picturesque village of Njegusi on the top of Mount Lovcen. Here you can also visit the Mausoleum of Peter II Njegos.

The total area of ​​Montenegro is 13,812 km².

The largest resorts: Budva, Becici, Herceg, Petrovac, Novi, Bar. Airports: Podgorica and Tivat. Highest place Montenegro: peak Bobotov Kuk in the Durmitor mountain range - 2522 m. Here is Lake Skadar - the deepest on the Balkan Peninsula, its depths reach up to 530 km. Here is the deepest European canyon along the Tara River, with a depth of up to 1300 m. Thanks to the favorable geography of Montenegro on the coast, the climate is subtropical: summers are long, hot and dry, the air warms up to +28-32 ˚С, sea water - up to +22-26 ˚С, and a short mild winter with temperatures up to +8 +10 ˚С. The beach season lasts six months a year, because Montenegro is second only to Cyprus in terms of the number of sunny days per year. In mountainous areas the climate is temperate continental, winters are snowy and long, which is favorable for the development ski holiday.

Kitchen

A feature of all Montenegrin cuisine is the high ecological purity of the products used. The land in Montenegro is so fertile that additional artificial fertilizers are not used here at all, and the local population has not even heard of GMOs. Natural food, clean ecology, mountain air and sea water - everything contributes to strengthening the health of the local population; it is not for nothing that life expectancy is high here. Typical Slavic cuisine with Mediterranean elements - a variety of meat dishes, seafood, fruits, vegetables. Don't forget to try the local wines “Vranac” and “Krstac”, as well as grape vodka - vine. Another distinctive feature of Montenegrin cuisine is large portions both in bars and restaurants, which cannot but please foreign guests of the country.

First of all, in Montenegro, tourists buy local handicrafts: jewelry, haberdashery, honey, olive oil, wine. Shops are open daily, from morning until late evening. Both supermarkets and small shops are open every day from 6:00 to 20:00, and at tourist centers- until 23:00. You can also find shops everywhere that are open 24 hours a day. At local markets, purchases can be made in the first half of the day.

Holidays and leisure

Montenegro has many holidays a year, both state and religious: on January 1 and 2, the population of Montenegro celebrates New Year, January 6 and 7 - Christmas, April 27 - Statehood Day in Montenegro, people also celebrate Christian Easter in the spring with the entire Orthodox world, May 1 and 2 - Spring and Labor Day, May 9 - Victory Day, June 4 - Partisan Day, June 13 is Uprising Day, November 29 and 30 are Republic Days. If the celebration falls on a weekend, then the weekdays that follow are also considered weekends.

Political system of the country

According to the country's Constitution, adopted in 2007, Montenegro is free democratic state. The President of Montenegro is elected for a five-year term by general secret ballot. Since 2003, the state has been led by Filip Vujanovic. During the reign of the current president, the independence of Montenegro was proclaimed in May 2006. The residence of the President of Montenegro is located in Cetinje.

Currency regulation

What is the currency in Montenegro? Monetary currency in Montenegro - euro. There are no special restrictions on import and export. Tourists are allowed to import and export any amount of foreign currency that was declared upon entering the country; without a declaration, the export of cash currency from the country is allowed no more than 500 euros. When exporting large amounts, they must be declared. In this case, it is necessary to present a declaration stating that the indicated amount of currency was previously imported into the Montenegro area. The State National Bank operates only on weekdays. Commercial banks accept clients on Thursdays and Fridays. On weekends, only currency exchange offices are open. It is better to use plastic cards, then the question of which currency is best to pay in Montenegro and where to change it will not arise.

Hotels

Over the past decades, a huge current has flowed into the economy of Montenegro - tourism, bringing significant profits to the state. Excellent ecological situation and comfortable spot Its location attracts more and more wealthy Europeans here. IN Lately In Montenegro, many comfortable hotels, inns, private villas and mini-hotels were built, and money was invested in the development of resort infrastructure. Many hotels have undergone renovations. Accommodation in private villas is very common. Typically, this is a 3-5 storey building with standard rooms and apartments equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay. Almost all of them provide tourists with breakfast. All private villas are located at a distance of 900 to 200 m from hotels in private villas: check-in to rooms after 12:00, check-out before 11:00. Population composition by ethnicity: Montenegrins (43%) and Serbs (32%), other nationalities - Bosnians, Albanians, Croats, Russians, Gypsies. The official language in the country is Montenegrin.

Religion in Montenegro

The majority of the Montenegrin population professes the Orthodox Christian faith (74%), with a minority of Islam (18%) and Catholicism (4%). The most popular attraction of the state is the Ostrog Monastery. It is located 15 km from Danilovgrad in a delightful natural place. This monastery is a famous Orthodox shrine in the world; hundreds of thousands of pilgrims of various faiths come to it every year to touch the miraculous power of the relics of St. Basil of Ostrog. The top of the monastery is carved into the rock at an altitude of 900 m and looks amazing.

The Church of the Resurrection of Christ in Montenegro is one of the most stunning Orthodox churches in the world. There is a special attitude towards religion in Montenegro. In the nineties of the 20th century, construction of the cathedral began in Podgorica. It was a grandiose project in its scale and beauty, the most majestic Orthodox church in the Balkans. The construction of the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ began in 1993 by Metropolitan Amfilohije of Montenegro and Primorye. The cathedral can be visited by five thousand parishioners at the same time. The largest bell was made in Voronezh at the Anisimov plant and weighs 10 tons. Together, all 14 bells of the temple weigh close to 20 tons. The temple is still being painted and completed today.

Nature

The clearest sea of ​​the Adriatic, captivating mountain ranges, a coast with many inlets, protected from strong winds and storms, excellent beaches, sun, magnificent nature - this is all Montenegro. Its description can be continued endlessly, but it is better to see everything with your own eyes.

In the early 90s, Montenegro was called a country of clean, untouched and protected nature. This is a land of sharp contrasts, located in a small area, Montenegro also has a sea with great beaches, and mountains covered with snow all year round, creating conditions for ski holidays. The beaches of Montenegro stretch along the Adriatic coast. 173 beaches with a total length of 73 km occupy a quarter of the entire 293 km coastline. A tourist can visit a beach with different preferences - with fine or coarse sand, pebbly or rocky, in calm creeks or on capes protruding into the sea, there are beaches with modern amenities or wild beaches with pristine nature. The water in the sea is dark blue, its transparency is amazing - 40-55 meters, salinity ranges from 28% in the Boka Kotorska inlet, and up to 38% in the south near Ulcinj. There are nudist beaches, and there is even a nudist village. At the level of mountain cliffs, the climate is typical subalpine - with cold snowy winters and moderate summers. In the northern mountains of Montenegro, snow usually lies for many months, and sometimes even throughout the year.

Transport and communications

What kind of transport is developed in the country? Air transport. Montenegro has two airports of international importance - in the cities of Tivat and Podgorica. National cannot yet compete with the largest carriers, but its planes fly to Europe and neighboring countries Balkan countries. Regular flights The Russian Aeroflot and the Serbian airline JAT also operate here.

Is here and Railway, which connects the following cities: Subotica - Novi - Sad - Belgrade - Bar. The railway runs from the port through Podgorica to Belgrade, and there is also a direction from Podgorica to Niksic. Water transport. Port - city of Bar. There is a constant ferry crossing to Italy (route Bar - Bari). Seaports: Kotor and Perast. Sea transport connects all beach resorts on the coast.

There are bus routes between all cities. The roads are quite good, for a mountainous country, and traffic is on the right.

Main highways: Adriatic Highway; routes from the coast through Podgorica to Sarajevo and Belgrade. In the country, the bus is the most common form of transportation, and in some places it is the only one. Stops on request along the way are allowed. Advice for tourists: it is better to buy a ticket at any kiosk, because a ticket purchased on the bus will be about 2 times more expensive.

Operators mobile communications in Montenegro are the companies ProMonte and Monet.

Safety

For safety reasons, video and photography can only be done where there is no special sign - a crossed out camera. It is not allowed to photograph transport and energy facilities, port facilities and military facilities. By the way, in Montenegro today the crime rate is very low, so both residents and tourists of this country can feel safe and calmly enjoy the picturesque beauty of this unique region.

Even within Europe, Montenegro is a small state. Distance from the northernmost to the most southern point the country does not exceed 200 km, and the length from west to east is even less - only 173 km. But such a small area accommodates several natural-geographical and climatic zones.

Where is Montenegro

The country is located in southeastern Europe, on the Adriatic coast of the Balkan Peninsula. From the southwest it is washed Adriatic Sea, in the west it borders with Croatia, in the northwest with Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the northeast with Serbia, in the east with the partially recognized Republic of Kosovo and in the southeast with Albania.

As its name implies, the main area of ​​Montenegro is made up of mountain ranges. Most of the country is a plateau, by the way, one of the highest. The entire territory of the country can be divided into three parts: the Adriatic coast, the flat central region and mountain systems east.

Montenegro map

The total length of the borders is 614 km, of which approximately 300 km is on the coastline. Montenegro also includes about 14 sea islands. In the northwestern part of the country there is a famous city with an area of ​​87.3 km², where the largest ports are located. The Montenegrin ones stretch for almost 73 km.

About 70 mountain peaks in the country have an altitude of more than 2000 m, which makes them very attractive for scientific research, as well as for ski slopes in winter. The highest point of Montenegro is Mount Bobotov Kuk (2522 m) in the Durmitor massif.

The most important rivers of Montenegro are Tara (length 144 km), Lim (length 123 km), Ceotina (length 100 km), Moraca (length 99 km), Zeta (length 65 km) and Boyana (length 30 km). Part belongs to the Danube basin, part to the Adriatic Sea. Most rivers have mountain nature, flow in deep and winding canyons. For example, with a depth of about 1300 m, it ranks first in Europe and second in the world.

The largest freshwater lake in Montenegro, as well as the entire Balkan Peninsula, is Skadar, located in a karst depression below sea level. Its area is 369.7 km². Partially, one third, the lake enters the territory of Albania. Most mountain lakes are of glacial origin; such lakes are often called “mountain eyes” for their transparent greenish-blue color.

Forests (coniferous and mixed) occupy 41% of the country's area, pastures - almost 40%. Vegetable world Montenegro has 2833 plant species. The population grows grapevines, olives, figs, oranges, lemons, pomegranates and other Mediterranean plants. The low population density contributes to the presence of large animals: bears, deer, martens and wild boars.

According to the constitution, Montenegro is an “ecological state”; almost 10% of the country’s territory is allocated to national parks and reserves - such as, and. That is why Montenegro is the most suitable place for recreation in natural conditions.

Climate in Montenegro

Due to the presence of several geographical zones, the climate in Montenegro varies depending on the area. On Adriatic coast- Mediterranean, in the central part of the country - temperate continental, in the mountain ranges - harsh mountain.

The coast experiences hot and dry summers with mild and rainy winters. In winter, the temperature does not fall below 7°C in and 9°C in. In summer average temperature is 25-26°C.

In the continental lowlands, winter is somewhat colder. In the region, the thermometer drops to 5°C in winter, but in summer the air temperature is even higher than the coastal areas and reaches 27°C.

Mountainous areas are characterized by moderate warm summer(19-25°C) and relatively cold winters (−10 to +5°C).

The proximity of the sea and mountainous terrain provide a large amount of precipitation, mainly in the form of rain, and in mountainous areas, snow. For example, the most rainy city Europe. On average, precipitation per year ranges from 500 to 1500 mm, in some places - over 3000 mm. In mountainous areas, snow lies for up to 5 months a year, the height of the snow cover is 1-3 m, which contributes to the development.

The Adriatic coast is characterized big amount cloudless sunny days, the total number of sunny hours per year is 2700. Temperature sea ​​water in the summer months it is 25-28°C, transparency reaches 35 m. The beach season lasts from April to October.

Geographical position

Montenegro located in southeastern Europe, on Adriatic coast of the Balkan Peninsula. The name of the state comes from the toponym Black Mountain. Total area of ​​the country amounts to 13.8 thousand sq. km. Capital of Montenegro- city Podgorica(formerly Titograd).

Montenegro is washed from SouthAdriatic Sea. State in the West Borders with Croatia, in North-west borders with Bosnia And Herzegovina,in the north-east- With Serbia, in the east- With Kosovo And Albaniain the southeast.

Total length of land borders states is 614 km. With the Republic of Croatia- 14 km, with Bosnia and Herzegovina - 225 km, with the Republic of Serbia and Kosovo - 203 km, with the Republic of Albania - 172 km.

Before June 2006 Montenegro was part of the confederation State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. The country occupied 13.5% of its total area. Independence Montenegro received June 3, 2006.

The territory of the country conventionally consists of three parts: the coast of the Adriatic Sea, the relatively flat central part of the country, as well as the mountain systems of the east of the country. In the central part of the country there are two of its largest cities - Podgorica And Nikisic.

Continental coastline Montenegro stretches for almost 300 km. The state includes 14 sea ​​islands. Length of coastline of these islands is 15.6 km. In North-west Montenegro has a large bay called Boka Kotorska, which crashes into land on 29.6 km. Its water surface area amounts to 87.3 km².

Total length of beaches Montenegro is 73 km, sea ​​water transparency in some places exceeds 35 m.

There are many rivers on the territory of Montenegro. Near 52,2 % rivers of the country belong to the Black Sea basin, the remaining 47,8 % belong to the Adriatic Sea basin. The longest of which are: Tara (144 km), Lim (123 km), Cheotina(100 km), Moraca (99 km), Zeta (65 km) And Boyana (30 km).

Three Montenegrin rivers (Moraca, Zeta And Beer) flow throughout the country throughout its entire length. River Boyana Previously it was the only navigable river in the country. It is currently no longer navigable.

Almost all the country's rivers are mountainous; they form fairly deep canyons. Tara River Canyon counts deepest in Europe and the second deepest in the world. Its depth is approx. 1200 meters.

Famous Skadar Lake is the most large lake not only the country, but also the entire Balkan Peninsula. The total area of ​​its water surface amounts to 369.7 km². Two thirds of the territory of this lake belongs to Montenegro, and one third belongs to Albania.

The second largest lake in Montenegro is Shasskoye Lake, area 3.64 km². The lake is located near Ulcinj. There are also 29 small mountain lakes of glacial origin. Their total area is 3.89 km².

The territory of Montenegro is mountainous. Highest point in the country is a mountain Bobotov-Cook, (mountain range Durmitor). Its height is 2522 m. The areas adjacent to the Adriatic coast are located in a zone of narrow coastal plains, which are interrupted by mountain spurs and rocky headlands.

In northern Montenegro climate temperate continental, on the Adriatic coast - Mediterranean.

In the coastal region of the country, summers are often long, dry and quite hot. Average summer air temperature here is +23-25 ​​°C. Winter in this part of the country is short and cool, with average temperatures from +3 to -7 °С. In the mountainous regions of Montenegro, summer is not so hot, the temperature here ranges from +19 to 25 °C. Winters are cooler here - from +5 to −10 °C. Precipitation in this part of the country falls mainly in the form of snow. On Mount Durmitor it may fall out up to a level of five meters. And here on the coast and in the basin of Lake Skadar snow falls extremely rarely. Total precipitation in Montenegro from 500 to 1500 mm per year. Precipitation falls mainly in the form of rain. In the mountains near sea ​​coast falls over in places 3000 mm.

In the northern regions In Montenegro there is usually snow until 5 months per year. Number of sunshine hours per year in Igalo is 2386 , and in Ulcinj - 2700 . Maximum sea water temperature in Montenegro - 27.1°C. Average sea temperature in summer amounts to 24.7°C.

Dinaric mountain range(Orjen, Lovcen) rise above the coast in the form of a giant canopy. It prevents the Mediterranean climate from penetrating into the interior of the country.

Best time to visit the country is the period from May to September-October. Tourist season in Montenegro it usually starts in April and continues until November. Sea temperature within seven months fluctuates from +20 C to +26 C. Swimming season in Montenegro the duration is equal to a tourist one.

Visas, entry rules, customs regulations

Currently, for entry into Montenegro for a period of less than 30 days citizens of Russia no visa required. It is only necessaryinvitation or travel voucher.

To stay in the country more than 30 days,needs to be formalized visa valid for 3 or 6 months. This can be done at the Embassy of Montenegro. Extend your residence permit tourists can also travel directly to Montenegro. For this purpose they will need to contact to the police department at your place of residence, to the migration officer.

For visa processing charged Consular fee In Euro. To obtain a visa for a stay of more than 30 days, the consular fee for citizens of Russia, Belarus and Ukraine is €60 . Additionally for a child included in the parents’ passport, will be charged €6 . Consular fee for a child with their own passport amounts to €60 .

For registration for CIS citizens single-entry tourist visa for a period of less than 30 days Consular fee is charged in the amount of €20 . Additionally for a child included in the parents' passport, you will need to pay €6 .

International passport to enter the country must be valid at least 2 weeks after the expected end of the trip.

For citizens of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus who do not have prior hotel reservations or a travel voucher when entering the country it will be enough to present a valid passport and return ticket. The tourist in this case must register at the hotel or with the owners of the rented apartments within 24 hours after entering Montenegro.

In Montenegro also charged tourist tax . It is about 1 Euro per person per day of stay in the country. Register a tourist can Tourist organization or at the travel agency. This can also be done at the police station with the inspector for foreigners.

When entering Montenegro with pets, such as a cat or a dog, need to Have a certificate from a veterinarian with you. It must contain information about the origin and health status of the animal. There must be a note stating that the animal does not suffer from rabies. You can obtain such a certificate from a veterinarian. The animal undergoes veterinary control at airports in Russia and Montenegro.

When departing from Montenegro need to pay airport tax at the rate of 15 euros.

Import and export foreign currency and securities in foreign currency can be without limitation. Only large amounts of cash need to be declared.

Persons aged 18 years and older, regardless of their nationality, can duty free import into the country up to 200 cigarettes, up to 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or up to 250 grams of tobacco. Also allowed in Montenegro duty free import up to 1 liter of strong alcoholic drinks and up to 1 liter of wine. You can import up to 250 ml of cologne and a reasonable amount of perfume and other perfumes.

Personal items and sports equipment can be imported to Montenegro only within the limits of personal needs. This includes: 1 binoculars, 1 laptop, 1 shotgun with ammo kit, 1 bicycle, 1 set of fishing equipment, 2 tennis rackets, up to 2 photo and 1 video camera, 1 tent, 1 pair alpine skiing, 1 musical instrument, 1 CD or MP3 player.

Most of these items no need to declare. Written a temporary import declaration will be required only for the import of video cameras, VCRs and other consumer electronics.

To country cannot be imported drugs, psychotropic and explosive substances, poisons. Besides, import prohibited counterfeit products, pesticides and some medicines, raw gold and coins. Pets can be imported and exported only if all relevant veterinary standards are observed.

From Montenegro can be exported a reasonable amount of perfume, tobacco products and alcoholic beverages. Cannot be exported antiques from the country, unless they are accompanied by the appropriate documentary evidence the legality of their purchase.

Upon entering the territory of Montenegro by car from June 15, 2008 you need to pay environmental fee. The amount of this fee for vehicles with no more than 8 seating , is 10 euros. For cars weighing no more than 5 tons will have to pay 30 euros, more than 5 tons - 50 euros.For entry by trucks will need to be paid 80-150 euros. To confirm that the fee has been paid, a special sticker is placed on the windshield of the car. It is valid for 11 months.

Population, political status

Population of Montenegro totals about 700 thousand people.The bulk of the population make up Montenegrins And Serbs.Albanians live mainly in the Ulcinj area. Bosniaks live in the north of Montenegro. They also live here Greeks And Croats.

In recent years, foreigners have begun to purchase real estate in Montenegro. Now there are up to 40 thousand foreigners here who permanently reside in the coastal areas. The main part of them are citizens of the CIS, there is also a small amount Germans And British.

National composition of the population: Montenegrins- near 50 % ,Serbs - 31,99 % , Bosnians - 7,77 % , Albanians - 5,03 % , Croats - 1,10 % , Russians - 1,00 % , gypsies - 0,42 % , other- 5,56 % .

Official languages Montenegro are: Serbian (85,7 % ) And Albanian (5,3 % ). Used in the country Serbian language, Jekavian dialect with equal use of the Cyrillic and Latin alphabet. Also used Bosnian And Croatian.

Administratively, the country's territory consists of 21 municipalities(region, community). These municipalities are named after their central cities.

To the municipality Podgoricaincludes two urban districts: urban district Zeta and urban district Tuzi. Central city districts Zeta is Golubovtsi. It should be noted that Zeta represents the name historical region, as well as the ancient name of Montenegro.

Capital of Montenegro is Podgorica. Largest cities in the country: Podgorica, Niksic, Pljevlja, Bijelo Polje, Herceg Novi, Berane And Cetinje.

In the early 1990s Yugoslavia actually collapsed. Montenegro remained after that in one federal state with Serbia.May 21, 2006 year in the referendum 55,5% Montenegrins voted to leave the federation with Serbia. June 3, 2006 Montenegro declared its independence. The state was recognized by the international community.

October 20, 2007 year was adopted Constitution of Montenegro. According to this constitution, Montenegro is a free, democratic, environmentally friendly state.

Power in the country divided into legislative, executive And judicial. President of Montenegro formally not included in the system of separation of powers. He elected for a five-year term during a universal direct secret ballot.

Legislature carried out in the country unicameral parliament which is called Assembly. It consists of 81 deputy Members of Parliament are elected 4 year during direct secret voting. Elected 76 deputies, and also 5 Albanian representatives are nominated from the Albanian minority.

Executive branch carried out in the country Government (Vlada). The composition of the government, at the proposal of the President, is approved by the Assembly.

Judicial system consists of two levels. Supreme Court Montenegro ensures the unity of law enforcement practice throughout the country. There are also in Montenegro constitutional Court.

Executive and legislative authorities Montenegro is controlled by " Coalition for European Montenegro» - DPSC And Social Democratic Party of Montenegro.

December 16, 2008 Montenegro submitted an application to join the European Union. The country's government is also seeking rapprochement with NATO.

What to see

On the shores of the Bay of Kotor There are a large number of interesting attractions. The first settlers in these places appeared in ancient times. The bay itself, famous for its beauty, is also of great interest to tourists. Best view it opens up from the adjacent rocky plateau. There are several bays here, which are connected to each other by narrow channels. These bays extend more than 20 km into the coast.

In its farthest part you can see the medieval city Kotor. He is architectural monument UNESCO. Old city Kotor is located between the sea and the spurs of the Lovcen mountain range. The main attraction of the city counts Cathedral Saint Tryphon. This cathedral was erected in 1166 year. It was built on the foundations of an earlier church, which was dedicated to the patron and protector of the city. The height of the city's fortress walls is up to 20 meters and the width is up to 15 meters. These fortress walls rise all the way to the fortress of St. Ivan, located high in the mountains. In the bay, opposite Perast, there are picturesque small islands Gospa od Škrpela And Saint George.

City Herceg-Novilezhit at the foot of the Orien mountain range. It is located at the exit from the Bay of Kotor. Here you can see a unique Botanical Garden , which has been formed over several centuries. Currently, the garden features a large variety of tropical and subtropical plant species. The most famous monument of history and architecture of the city counts Orthodox monastery Savina (XI century). Tourists are also attracted bastions, National Museum And old residential building.

City Budva is located in the central part of the country's coast. The old city is surrounded by high fortress walls. These walls were built in XV century even before the Turkish invasion. In the old part of the city you can wander through the narrow winding streets. In the center located museum, was here before city ​​citadel. Near the citadel there are three ancient churches: Church of St. Ivan from the 7th century, 9th century St. Mary's Church And Holy Trinity Church. The latter was erected in 1804 year and represents Orthodox church in Byzantine style. Not far from Budva there is a famous island hotel Saint Stephen. It has completely preserved the appearance of a medieval city.

Ancient Bar first mentioned in IX century. In fact, it was built by the Romans. A fortress has been preserved here since the Turkish invasion Hi-Nehai. In the city, tourists can also see 12th century St. George's Cathedrals And Saint Nicholas of the 14th century. Near the Old Bar, in Mirowice, growing one of the oldest olive trees in the world. His age is over 2000 years.

Ulcinj is the most southern city Montenegro. There are long, beautiful beaches here. In addition, you can see historical sights here. City Museum is a real historical and cultural complex. Tourists can also see remains of the Venetian walls and visit ethnographical museum. The architecture of the old city shows the influence of different styles and eras.

On the territory of Montenegro in different parts there are 4 national parks. "Durmitor" located in the mountains in the northwest, a park " Biogradska Gora" located in the north, "Lovcen" - in the mountains near the coast, A " Skadar Lake" located on the plain in the southeast of the country. Most large area occupies the territory of the National Park " Durmitor". Here you can also see the famous Tara River Canyon. This canyon is considered deepest in Europe and is located under the protection of UNESCO. Tourists can go to excursion along it on rafts or rafts. There is also a picturesque medieval fortress . Very beautiful canyons of the rivers Piva, Moraca, Susica, and glacial lakes, which are located in the mountainous part of Montenegro.

Biograd Forest is one of the last intact forests in Europe. The beautiful Skadar Lake. They live here large bird colonies. In the national park" Lovcen"you can admire the unique mountain landscape. In addition, here on Lake Peak located Mausoleum of Peter II Petrovich Njegus.

Montenegro is a fairly religious country. There are many monasteries and churches here. In total, there are about fifty monasteries in the country, over thirty of them are active.

Cultural capital of Montenegro- city Cetinje, lies on the slopes of Mount Lovcen. This city was founded in XIII century. It is a real open-air museum. Its main shrine counts Cetinje Monastery, built during the period from 1484 to 1785. The monastery is located in the very center of the city. Within the walls of this monastery unique sacred relics are kept, such as: embalmed hand of Saint John the Baptist And part of the cross on which the Savior was crucified. There are also the first printed book of the South Slavs - "Octoechos", which appeared in 1494 year.

Ostrog Monastery was founded in XVII century. Its peculiarity is that it is carved into the rock at a height 900 m above sea level. Numerous pilgrims from all over the world come here. This monastery houses relics of St. Basil of Ostrog- a miracle worker-healer who is revered throughout the Orthodox world.

Not far from Kolasin located Moraca Monastery. This monastery was built over 750 years ago. It stands in a picturesque location above the turbulent Moraca River. Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in the Moraca monastery is the tomb of rulers. In this temple you can see magnificent frescoes. Among them there is a unique cycle, which is dedicated to to the prophet Elijah. The monastery also contains Church of St. Nicholas And Church of St. Archdeacon Stephen.

The territory on which modern Montenegro is located was previously part of the Roman Empire. In those days it was called Ducla (Doclea). The first Slavic tribes began to settle in this region of the Balkan Peninsula in VI century. The Balkans became Slavic in VIII century.

Christianity appeared on the territory of Montenegro in VII century. When the Empire was divided into Western, Roman, Eastern and Byzantine this region the border has passed. In addition, the churches here were divided into Roman And Orthodox. This determined the historical position of Montenegro on the border of Slavic and Mediterranean peoples. It mixed different cultures and economic systems.

The state included the territory near Lake Skadar, as well as nearby mountains. First Prince of Ducles was Vladimir. Dyuklya was renamed to Zetu. IN 1040 year she gained independence and became the first independent state in the Balkans, which received Byzantine recognition. The country reached its greatest prosperity at the end XI century. Then it controlled almost the entire territory of modern Bosnia and Serbia.

The modern name Montenegro was first mentioned in the chronicles of the monastery of St. Nicholas in Vranzhin related to 1296 year. This is how the area around Mount Lovcen was named. It seemed black from the dense forest growing on it.

In the Middle Ages, Zeta was a small feudal state. The country had to win its independence from the encroachments of Albania, Venice, and then Turkey. The state was led by various dynasties:Vojisavljevic, Balsic And Crnojevic. IN XV century under the reign Krnojevicin the town of Cestinje were built fortress And monastery. This place began to be considered a symbol of spiritual and state independence. IN 1493 During their reign, the first printing house in the Balkans was created.

Then, in 1496 year the state came under Turkish domination. The invaders annexed Zeta to the province of Skadar. But even at this time, Montenegro enjoyed greater autonomy rights. Independence from Turkey the state was able to obtain 1645 year. After that, at the head of the country stood metropolitans, who enjoyed very great spiritual influence, as well as Assembly of the People of Montenegro.

IN 1697 year the Assembly appointed metropolitan Danilo I, from which it originates Petrovich dynasty. IN XVIII-XIX centuries, Montenegro won several victories in battles with superior Turkish troops. This contributed to her complete liberation from Turkish influence. In many ways, these victories were facilitated by allied relations with Russia. During the same period, Montenegro gained access to the Adriatic coast and began to control the port of Bar. Results of the liberation wars 1875-1878 years received official recognition in the peace treaty signed in San Stefano in February 1878 year, and also at the Berlin Congress in summer 1878 of the year. After this Berlin Congress, Montenegro (together with Serbia and Romania) received state status, recognized internationally. Day July 13 became a national holiday.

At the end XIX century, statehood is rapidly developing in Montenegro. IN 1879 year by his decree Prince Nicholas established State Council, ministries And Supreme Court. IN 1888 were adopted in the country Civil Code And Property Law.

First Montenegrin constitution appeared December 19, 1905 of the year. IN 1910 year Parliament (People's Assembly) proclaimed Montenegro Constitutional Monarchy. Prince Nicholas became King Nicholas I.

During this period in the country industry began to develop rapidly. Prince Nicholas's daughter, Helena, was the wife of King Victor Emmanuel of Italy. By agreement with him, Italy invested 10 million liras in the development of the Montenegrin economy. With these funds, a port was built in the country in Bar. There was also a railway, which connected Bar, Virpazar, Podgorica and Danilovgrad.

During the First World War a country fought on the side of the Entente. The army of Montenegro fought with the troops of Austria-Hungary under the command of Serbia. After the end of the war Montenegro became the only winning country, which lost her independence. Serbia managed to implement the idea " Greater Serbia", creating the kingdom of the South Slavs, called Yugoslavia. Montenegro joined it by decision of the Assembly in Podgorica November 11, 1918 of the year. The country lost its sovereignty, army and royal dynasty. Part of the country's population protested against unification with Serbia. Armed uprisings began to break out, the Serbian army successfully suppressed them. In the mountainous regions of the country, resistance to Serbia continued even before 1920 of the year.

Montenegro became part of the province Zetska Banovin A. This territory became one of the poorest provinces in Yugoslavia. During the Second World War were posted here bases of Tito's partisan movement. After the victory and the formation of a communist state, Yugoslavia became a federation. Montenegro was then one of the seven republics that were part of it. With subsidies from the center, industry began to develop in the republic. IN 1980s years, the active development of the tourism industry began here.

At first 1990s Yugoslavia collapsed. Montenegro at this time remained in the same federal state with Serbia. At first, this state continued to bear the former name of Yugoslavia, and with 2003 of the year - Serbia and Montenegro. The fighting did not affect Montenegro. However the country has suffered quite seriously from international sanctions, which were imposed on the union state. In the referendum held May 21, 2006 of the year, 55,5% Residents of Montenegro voted to leave the federation with Serbia. June 3, 2006 Montenegro declared its independence. June 15 Montenegro's independence was recognized by Serbia. Montenegro became an independent state.

International trade

Main export products in Montenegro are: aluminum(more 50% total exports), metal products, and mineral oils. Montenegrin import make up cars, mineral fuel, power equipment And cars.Main foreign trade partners Montenegro can include the following countries: Serbia, Italy, Germany, Greece, Slovenia And Croatia.

The shops

Shops in Montenegro are usually open daily With 8:00 before 20:00 . In tourist centers they can only close in 23:00 . Many shops(and even pharmacies) closed during the day.

Usually break in shops happens with 13 before 17 hours, but maybe from 13 before 16 , and with 12 before 17 . In large and resort towns It's not hard to find stores that are open around the clock. Some stores work in Sunday. Numerous private retail outlets work on your own schedule.

The price level in the country is quite low, when compared with Western Europe. But compared to Turkey and Egypt, it is much higher. You need to know that prices vary depending on the region of the country. In coastal areas everything is approximately 25% more expensive. And here hotels, on the contrary, are more expensive in the interior of the country.

Very convenient for tourists that are now in Montenegro Euro is the official currency. There is no need to change currency and lose on commissions.

As souvenirs tourists usually bring from Montenegro T-shirts with resort symbols, dishes, as well as various shell crafts. Montenegrins are also famous alcoholic drinks.

Demography

Annual population growth country is about 3,5 % . Population density - 44.9 people/km².

Industry

Traditionally main industry in Montenegro were ferrous metallurgy(center - Niksic), aluminum recycling(Podgorica) and electrical industry (Cetinje). Sufficiently developed in the country rubber,textile (Bijelo Polje) And chemical industry. In Kotor produce bearings. Shipbuilding Center And ship repair are Biela And Bar. Light And food industry most developed in Niksic And Bare. Woodworking centers are considered: Giving birth, Berane, Pljevlja And Niksic.

Currently, the Montenegrin economy is experiencing rapid growth. The main industries are developing, as well as agriculture and tourism.

The largest enterprises countries are: Aluminum smelter in Podgorica, Iron and Steel Works in Niksic, TPP And coal mine"Pljevlya." The country is forced to import ferroalloys,electrodes, hot rolled sheet, petroleum products, and electricity.

The country's rivers have very high energy potential - 115 kW per 1 km² territories. But, for various reasons, hydropower is underdeveloped in Montenegro.

Vegetable and animal world

Vegetable world Montenegro is quite rich and diverse. Here on 0,14% grows on the territory of Europe 2833 plant varieties. This represents almost a quarter of the species of European flora.

On the coast of the country grow olive And fruit groves, cypress trees, palm trees And grape. Most of the area of ​​coastal cliffs covered maquis, which are dense thickets of evergreen shrubs. This vegetation is characteristic of the Mediterranean.

In mountainous areas Montenegro meet oak And coniferous forests. On the Belasitsa mountain range is located national park "Biogradska Gora". It is covered with mixed forest. Trees grow here 86 breeds Among the main breeds can be distinguished: spruce, fir, beech, elm, oak, maple And mountain ash. Rare alpine plants also grow in the mountains. edelweiss, mountain cornflowers And violets. These species are characteristic of the alpine meadow belt.

Another famous national park of Montenegro is located on Lake Skadar. Completely different types of plants grow here. The area here is marshy and covered with reeds. On the surface of the lake you can see a large number of yellow and white water lilies. Many types of vegetation in Montenegro are endemic. This means that they only grow in a given area.

Animal world Montenegro is also quite interesting. In the mountainous regions of the country There are such predatory animals as: wolves, the Bears And foxes. They are hunting deer, chamois,wild goats,hares And gophers. Found in the valleys wild boars.

In the Adriatic Sea There are a large number of different species of fish. Meet here sea ​​bass, mullet, red mullet, and shrimp, lobster, octopus.

In the rivers of the country The following types of fish live: trout, perch, carp, catfish, carp And pike. In Lake Skadar lives 50 species of fish. Locals mine here bleak And carp. In addition, he lives permanently or temporarily on Lake Skadar 270 bird species. Colonies meet here pelicans, cormorants, herons And black ibises. Bird watchers from all over the world come to this lake.

More 41 % area of ​​Montenegro covered forests and forest lands . On pastures have to 39,58 % common territory.

According to the Constitution of Montenegro, the republic is “ eco-friendly state" Near 8,1 % its territory is under various environmental regimes. There are many in the country national reserves , the main ones being: Durmitor, Lovcen, Biogradska Gora And Skadar Lake.

Banks and money

Driving a car in Montenegro has its own characteristics, which you must be aware of. must know tourists. Primarily for road trips around the country necessary stock up on the latest version road maps good scale. This is due to the fact that most of The road maps sold do not include the major changes that occurred in the country after the last Balkan war of 1992-1996. Part of the roads that used to be good quality, have now actually become completely unusable. In addition, during this time a large number of new roads with good coverage have appeared in Montenegro. This problem is especially pressing in the mountainous regions of the country.

Roads throughout the country are not of very good quality according to European standards. Even the best highways have only two lanes in each direction. All other roads have only one lane in each direction. In addition, moving around the country by car is complicated by the mountainous terrain and the large number of freight transit vehicles on the roads. For tourists recommended travel by car in Montenegro at a speed no higher than 60-70 km/hour

Bus service in Montenegro it is developed quite well. Transport runs according to a strict schedule. However, the country's bus fleet is already very outdated; the buses lack ventilation and air conditioning. And because of mountainous terrain Bus trips take longer than regular roads. This is associated with bus delays and breakdowns.

Public transport in cities, too, the car park is mostly outdated. Travel coupons are sold at any newsstand. This coupon is needed compost upon entering the salon. You can also travel by tram or bus pay by giving money to the driver. However, the fare in this case increases almost 2 times. Reusable tickets can be purchased at tobacco kiosks.

In Montenegro no internal rail service. The only existing line leads from Bar to Serbian Belgrade. This route passes through Podgorica and Bialo Polje. Up to 4 trains run daily in this direction. One of them is night and has sleeping places.

In Montenegro there is four types of trains: "express"(express)" proverbs"(quick)" brzy" (high-speed) and " wayfarer" (passenger). Prices for different categories of trains differ from each other, but they are all quite low. Night trains to Belgrade have only compartment cars. The cost of travel in a second class compartment with three seats is approx. 4 Euro. A trip in a four-seater coupe will cost approximately 3 euro, and in a six-seater - in 2,5 Euro. Directions to sleeping car first class costs about 7 Euro. Baggage up to the established limit (about 50 kg) is not paid for.

IN summer season the number of trains increases according to summer schedule. It is not at all easy to buy a ticket for a passing train. Recommended reserve seats in advance. Most trains in Montenegro have non-smoking compartments. Travel cards Inter-Rail" And Euro-Rail"do not operate in the country. Podgorica and Bar train stations are equipped with luggage storage rooms. To collect your luggage, you must present your passport.

In the bar available sea ​​port . There is a daily ferry connection to Italy (line Bar-Bari). The Adriatic Highway connects all places on the Adriatic coast. The Montenegrin navy consists of more than 40 ships. The country also has

A distinctive feature of agricultural production Montenegro is no industrial pollution. A country grows only organic products.The main commercial crop Montenegro is tobacco.

The country also Vegetable production is quite well developed (peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers) and fruits (apples, grapes, citrus fruits). Montenegro is famous for its wines.

Cultivated in Montenegro wheat And corn. However, their gross harvest is not able to satisfy the internal needs of the republic.

The largest enterprise industry is agro-industrial plant « July 13 - Plantage».

Mountain and pasture livestock farming plays a very important role in the agriculture of Montenegro.: sheep breeding And Breeding cattle.

Buyers here don't try to deceive in a store or market. But haggle Montenegrins love and know how. People with has great respect for any faith and belief. They religious and do not particularly strive for a “beautiful life”.

For Montenegrins, the most characteristic moral concepts are: " cojstvo" And " junastvo", that is " bravery" And " courage"Local residents have great respect for their traditions, customs and the history of their country.

Montenegrins sociable and very hospitable. They are open, but they never meddle in other people's affairs. The influence of centuries-old traditions of community and collectivism is noticeably visible in the country. One might even say that Montenegrins exhibit a certain old-fashioned way of upbringing. All these features make the people of Montenegro so colorful.

Family is also very important for Montenegrins. Even today they have quite strong concepts of clan and clan. There is also a striking readiness for mutual assistance even between complete strangers.

People in Montenegro They treat Russians and residents of other countries very well former USSR . Here people still remember the centuries-old connection between our peoples. In addition, the similarity of our languages ​​largely contributes to this. The problem of the language barrier practically does not arise here. Many Montenegrins know Russian. The attitude towards tourists from other countries is also quite friendly. But this applies to older people. But young people in Montenegro prefer to learn Western European languages. English language It is used almost everywhere, but is not very popular among the population for political reasons. Local residents are very pleased that tourists know at least a few of the most common local words.

When meeting local residents, regardless of religion, greet each other with a handshake. When visiting someone's home accepted give small gifts. Local residents highly value the ability to speak and carry on a conversation. You can often see lengthy dialogues taking place at the table.

Everywhere in the country European clothing is accepted. But wearing tracksuits to restaurants and cafes not worth it. They might just not let you in. Evening wear is quite informal, but conservative. It is often based on local traditions. Montenegrins greatly revere their national costume.. Foreigners do not have to dress like this.

Most of the country's residents are heavy smokers. Even in public transport and in public institutions you can constantly find people smoking. You can also often see noisy companies. However, drunkenness among local residents not very common.

Electricity

. In Kosovo happen quite often outbreaks of tularemia and hemorrhagic fever.

Tourists must know that tap water in Montenegro is usually chlorinated and is relatively safe for health. However It's best to always use bottled water, this is especially true for areas remote from the capital.

Milk in Montenegro is pasteurized, dairy products are completely safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, fish, vegetables and fruits are inspected by sanitary and hygiene services. They are enough safe for consumption. However, their recommended Do not buy from street vendors and pre-cook.

Valid in Montenegro health care insurance system. First aid, if necessary, turns out for free. However for a more thorough examination you'll have to pay.

For foreign tourists in Montenegro It is best to use the services of only special hospitals: Boris Kidrich Hospital, Clinics Centar and etc. Consultation for foreigners will cost $3-10 depending on the disease.

In every community There is public clinic ("House of Health"). Here you can always get qualified first aid. In almost all cities and large towns of the country there are doctors who are engaged in private practice. You can also turn to them for help.

The main part of the clinics works in the country from Tuesday to Saturday With 7.00 before 13.00-17.00 .

There are private and public pharmacies. Typically, state pharmacies are located in health centers. The range of locally and foreign-made drugs is quite extensive.

- state in Southern Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula. In the southeast it borders with Albania, in the south it is separated from Italy by the Adriatic Sea, in the west it has borders with Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The length of the sea coast of Montenegro (including the Malente Islands) is 293.5 km.

The name comes from the toponym Black Mountain.

Official name: Montenegro (Crna Gora).

Capital: Podgorica

The area of ​​the land: 13,812 sq. km

Total Population: 620 thousand people

Administrative division: Montenegro is divided into 21 communities.

Form of government: Republic.

Head of State: The president.

Population composition: 57% are Montenegrins, 30.% are Serbs, 7.77% are Bosnians, 3% are Albanians, 1% are Russians, 0.42% are Roma.

Official language: Montenegrin. Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Albanian are also recognized as official languages.

Religion: 74.24% are Orthodox, 17.74% are Muslim, 3.54% are Catholic.

Internet domain: .me

Mains voltage: ~230 V, 50 Hz

Country dialing code: +382

Country barcode: 389

Climate

Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by dry and hot summers and cool winters with heavy rainfall. Despite the fact that the country's territory is small, 4 climatic regions can be distinguished here: coast, rocky plateau, plain and highlands.

A narrow strip, 2 - 10 km wide, along the coast of Montenegro, bears the most pronounced features of the Mediterranean climate. Summer there is hot (average daily temperature in July is 28..30 C), and there is little precipitation (25 - 50 mm per month). The rainy period lasts from November to January, during which time 170 - 260 mm falls per month; in the north of the coast 1.5 times more precipitation falls than in the south. Average monthly temperature at night in January it does not fall below 4..5 C, and during the day 11..13 C. Negative temperatures are not observed every year. The swimming season lasts 5 months from the end of May to October, the water temperature is 20..25 C.

A rocky plateau separates the coast from the interior of the country. Falls out here greatest number precipitation in Europe, since its southwestern slopes retain moist air coming from the sea. Thus, in the village of Krivosie, located above the Bay of Kotor, 480 mm of precipitation per day was recorded. In the town of Crkvice, the maximum annual rainfall fell - 5155 mm, and in the cultural capital of the country, Cetinje, located on a plateau near Mount Lovcen - the maximum average annual rainfall (3927 mm/year). Just like on the coast, in summer there is noticeably less precipitation (60 - 80 mm in July), and the rainiest month is November (500 - 700 mm).

The difference in altitude between the coast and the plateau is on average 1000 m, and the height of some peaks reaches 1700 m. Therefore, in the summer it is cooler here than on the coast; the average daily temperature in July varies from 23 to 27 C depending on the altitude. In winter, the average temperature at night is -3..-5 C, and during the day 5..8 C. Snow usually falls in December and persists until mid-March.

The plain is protected by a rocky plateau from the direct influence of the Adriatic Sea, so in summer it is hotter than on the coast (average daytime temperature in July 30..32oC), and in winter it is cooler: on average 0..3oC at night and 9..11oC during the day. Precipitation occurs mainly in autumn and winter. In July, 30 - 60 mm of precipitation falls, and in November 250 - 300 mm.

The climate is high mountainous areas bears subalpine features. In winter, the average temperature at night is -6..-9 C, and during the day 0..3oC, but it decreases with altitude. Snow usually falls at the end of November and persists until the end of March. Precipitation falls evenly throughout the year, with a maximum in November (can fall from 100 to 300 mm per month depending on the orientation of the slope). Summer is cool, the average temperature during the day is 19..23 C (high in the mountains it can be colder!), and at night 8..10 C.

Best time to visit:

For beach holiday July and August are the best months - the hottest, driest and sunny months. In September, when the sea is still warm and the main wave of tourists has already subsided, you can also have a great holiday at sea. Diving, windsurfing, paragliding and other sports, as well as sightseeing, can be practiced almost all year round, except November-December. You can safely travel to mountainous regions from April to October. The ski season lasts from December to March.

Geography

Montenegro is a small country located in the southwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula on the Adriatic Sea coast. Its area is only 13.8 thousand km2. However, 4 different natural and climatic regions can be distinguished on the territory of the country: coastal, plateau, highland and flat, leading to Lake Skadar.

In the west, Montenegro borders with Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the coast with Croatia, in the north and northeast with Serbia, and in the east with Albania. From the south it is limited by the Adriatic Sea, the length of the coastline is about 300 km. The length of the beaches is 73 km, of which 56 km are sandy beaches.

The coast of Montenegro, only 2-10 km wide, is sandwiched between the sea and a rocky plateau that falls steeply towards it. Montenegro is home to one of the best harbors in Europe - the Bay of Kotor (protrudes into the coast for more than 20 km), consisting of several spacious bays connected by narrow canals. For a long time there was a belief that the bay was a fjord, but now it is believed that the Bay of Kotor is the remains of a river that once existed here. river canyon. Strong tectonic and karst processes led to its gradual destruction.

A karst plateau rises above the coast; the terrain here is harsh, but beautiful in its own way. The rocks dry out quickly: even the heaviest annual rainfalls cannot significantly moisten the soil, so there are few plants and animals here. Rare areas of fertile land are found only on small plains and crater-shaped depressions. The Lovcen National Park is located here.

The basin of Lake Skadar, the fertile plain of the Zeta River, the Bjelopavlica plain and the Nikšić field make up a flat region with an elevation difference of 350 m. The bulk of the population of Montenegro lives in the flat region. Here are the two largest cities of the country - Podgorica and Niksic, as well as the Skadar Lake national park.

In the north of the country, northeast of the Piva, Komarnica and Moraca rivers, there is a highland region. In the highlands, 4 large mountain ranges can be distinguished: Visitor, Durmitor and Komovi (they form the Dinaric Highlands) and Prokletiye (Cursed Mountains). The height of the peaks reaches more than 2000 m above sea level. The most high point Montenegro - Mount Bobotov Kuk (2522 m) is located in the Durmitor massif.

In the highlands there are pastures and forests, numerous mountain lakes. The rivers Piva, Tara, Moraca and their tributaries have carved narrow canyons with steep banks in the rocks. The Tara River canyon is the largest in Europe and the second in the world, its depth reaches 1300 m. There are also two national parks in this region - Biogradska Gora and Durmitor.

Flora and fauna

Vegetable world

The flora of Montenegro is very rich, despite the harsh conditions in the mountainous regions that occupy most of the country. Here, on just 0.14% of Europe's territory, 2,833 plant species grow, accounting for almost a quarter of the species of European flora. On the coast you can find olive and fruit groves, cypress trees, palm trees and grapes. However, most of the coastal cliffs are covered with maquis - dense thickets of evergreen shrubs characteristic of the Mediterranean.

Higher in the mountains there are oak and coniferous forests. mountain range Bjelasica, where the Biogradska Gora National Park is located, is covered with mixed forest. There are 86 tree species here, including spruce, fir, beech, elm, oak, maple and even rowan. Alpine edelweiss, which has become rare, as well as mountain cornflowers and violets grow in the mountains; such vegetation is typical for the belt of alpine meadows.

In the area of ​​another national park, Lake Skadar, the terrain is completely different. The main part of its coast is marshy, overgrown with reeds, and the surface of the lake is covered with a carpet of yellow and white water lilies. Many types of vegetation are endemic, i.e. found only in this area.

Animal world

The fauna of Montenegro is also rich. Predators in mountainous areas include wolves, bears, and foxes. Their prey includes deer, fallow deer, chamois, wild goats, hares and gophers. There are wild boars in the valleys. The Adriatic Sea is home to several hundred species of fish, including sea bass, mullet, red mullet, as well as shrimp, lobster, and octopus.

The rivers are rich in trout, perch, carp, catfish, carp and pike. Lake Skadar is home to 50 species of fish; the local population hunts mainly for bleak and carp. In addition, Lake Skadar is a permanent or temporary habitat for 270 bird species. Here you can see colonies of pelicans, cormorants, herons and black ibises. The lake attracts bird watchers from all over the world.

Attractions

On the territory of Montenegro, many historical and cultural monuments have been preserved, and most of them, despite the numerous wars that have swept through this land, are in excellent condition. Hundreds of medieval monasteries and ancient cities, dozens balneological resorts, unique natural complexes of the southern Balkans, tens of kilometers of beaches of the Montenegrin Riviera, good-natured and friendly people - these are far from full list the merits of this country.

Even during the unified Yugoslavia, Montenegro was the main tourist area of ​​the country. Thanks to the varied terrain, clean mountain rivers, warm sea(considered, by the way, the cleanest in Europe), a luxurious coastline (length is 290 km, beaches - 73 km, 56 km of which are sandy, which is quite rare for this region), excellent climate and the status of a European ecological park, this tiny the country is one of the recognized centers of tourism in Europe.

Banks and currency

The monetary unit is the euro (coins 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 euro cents, 1 and 2 euros; banknotes 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 euros).

The National Bank of Montenegro is open from Monday to Friday (10:30-14:00). Commercial banks are open from 08:00 to 19:00, on Saturdays - from 08:00 to 13:00, Sunday - closed. On weekends you can use exchange offices. There are many ATMs in Montenegro, through which you can make transactions with foreign currency. ATMs are installed in banks, airports and some hotels. Some shops and hotels accept payment using credit cards. In the bank you can always find several employees who speak English or Russian.

Useful information for tourists

Montenegrins are extremely tolerant of manifestations of interethnic differences, even the issue of interethnic conflicts in the Balkans. But it is not recommended to talk about politics or the collapse of the SFRY.

The crime rate is low. The police strictly suppress any manifestations of deception of foreign tourists, but at the everyday level there are frequent cases of petty fraud or an allegedly suddenly appeared language barrier, so you should be especially careful when discussing financial issues and never give money in advance, before the service is provided.

Tips in restaurants usually amount to 5% of the bill.

For drinking, it is better to use mineral or bottled water.

The price level in the country is quite low, but varies markedly depending on location. In coastal areas everything is about 25% more expensive.

Montenegro
Montenegrin Crna Gora
It got its name from Mount Lovcen (1749 m), located in historical center countries near the Bay of Kotor.

Soils

A distinctive feature of Montenegro is the accumulation of red soil in the coastal region. This type of soil, resulting from the weathering of dolomite and limestone rocks, is also common in the depressions of the karst region; The bare rocks of the southern part of the karst have practically no soil. The soils of mountainous regions are represented by ordinary brown forest and podzolic soils. The eastern regions are more fertile and covered with forests and grass.

Arable land - 13.7%, land occupied by permanent grain crops - 1% (2005). There are no irrigated lands. (2003).

Ecology and protected areas

In areas of intense tourism, such as Kotor, coastal areas are polluted by sewage.

According to the constitution of Montenegro, the republic is an “ecological state”; 8.1% of the territory is under various environmental regimes (including the national parks Durmitor, Lovcen, Biogradska Gora and Lake Skadar).