Kotor's Old Town is tiny, but if you have only a an hour or two in this UNESCO-protected site, be sure to make a note of these important Kotor sights and attractions.
Kotor's Main Square
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
Kotor's Main Square (also known as Weapons Square or the Square of Arms) includes the Tower of the City Guard, the Ducal Palace, and the Napoleon Theater - these three structures have been linked to form part of the Cattaro Hotel. The Arsenal is also a feature of this square and the building from which it gets its name. Also note the clocktower directly opposite the main gate with its "pillar of shame," which was once used to punish unlawful citizens.
Karampana Fountain
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
This fountain with its Baroque metal work was once the only source of fresh water in Kotor. Past residents of the town used to congregate here to exchange news and gossip.
Maritime Museum
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
The Grgurin Palace is now the Maritime Museum of Kotor. Located on Museum Square near the Karampana Fountain, it offers a look into the area's naval history. Its exhibitions include information about Montenagran maritime developments and artifacts from past eras.
Cathedral of St. Tryphon
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
This 12th century church is the most important church in Kotor. Built in honor of the town's patron saint, it has two recognizable bell towers and dominates St. Tryphon's Square.
St. Luke's Church
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
St. Luke's Church is another 12th century church. However, unlike St. Tryphon's Cathedral, it was left undamaged by an earthquake that rocked Kotor in the 17th century. This small church is the main feature of St. Luke's Square and is an important remnant of Kotor's history.
Pima Palace
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
A detailed example of Renaissance and Baroque style architecture in Kotor, Pima Palace occupies a prime spot on Flour Square. and shares this square with the Buca Palace. Pima Palace dates from the 17th century
Beskuca Palace
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
Beskuca Palace can be found near the main square. Its gothic portal depicts the crest of the Bizanti family, a noble family of Kotor.
Bay of Kotor
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
Kotor is built on the Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska). This bay is a part of the UNESCO Heritage-protected area of Kotor. It acts as Kotor's passage to the sea and can be viewed best from Kotor's fortifications or another elevated position.
Kotor's Fortifications
Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
Kotor's walls enclose its area but also add to its mystery and beauty. Seaward-facing towers and the walls that stagger up St. John's mountain behind Kotor are a part of its protected area.
Church of Our Lady of Remedy and St. John's Castle
The Church of Our Lady of Remedy and St. John's Castle at the apex of the mountain of the same name may not be easily visited, especially if you are short on time. However, you can peer through the mist that sometimes surrounds the mountain and identify this church and the crumblings structure of the fortress. If you want to make the journey to see these sights, you'll need a good pair of walking shoes, bottled water, plenty of energy, and about three hours.
