Our Lady of the Rocks

One of the most beautiful historical sites in Montenegro is Our Lady of the Rocks. One of the two islets in the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, off the shore of Perast is called Our Lady of the Rocks. It is an artificial island made by sinking old and seized ships that were laden with rocks. The main structure on the islet is the Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, which also houses a museum. A navigation light is located at the western extremity of the islet, and there is a small gift shop nearby.

The Madonna and Child emblem was discovered on a rock in the sea on July 22, 1452, and local seafarers are said to have created the islet throughout the years while upholding an old pledge. Each successful expedition ended with them placing a rock in the Bay. The islet slowly emerged from the water over time. Even in modern times, throwing rocks into the ocean is still a common practice. Every year, as the sun sets on July 22, a tradition known as fainada takes place in which inhabitants use their boats to toss rocks into the water, enlarging the island's surface.

Location: Bay of Kotor, Montenegro