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Cathedral of Saint Tryphon

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Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Montenegro)

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The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in Kotor is one of the most significant monuments of medieval architecture on the Adriatic coast, consecrated in 1166. It is dedicated to the city's patron saint, Saint Tryphon, whose relics were brought to Kotor from Constantinople as early as the 9th century. The cathedral was built on the foundations of an older circular church and displays a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Severe earthquakes in 1667 and 1979 caused substantial damage to the structure, leading to extensive reconstructions that incorporated Baroque elements. Of particular value is the ornate silver altar canopy from the 14th century, which depicts scenes from the life of the saint. The facade is dominated by two unequal bell towers, as funds for an identical completion were lacking after the 1667 earthquake. The cathedral serves as the religious heart of the Diocese of Kotor and is a central element of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C45812162024241914106
Rain mm15615213810389674243116138187178

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in Kotor is an active place of worship open to visitors. Entry is usually ticketed, allowing you to see the Romanesque interior with frescoes and the treasury museum.
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Typical hours
The cathedral is typically open daily from around 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with shorter hours on Sundays and holidays. Check locally for exact times as they can vary seasonally.
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Photography
Photography without flash is usually allowed inside the cathedral. In the treasury museum, photography may be restricted; ask the staff for permission.
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Time needed
Allow about 45 to 60 minutes for visiting the cathedral and treasury museum. If you study the architecture thoroughly, it may take up to 90 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the cathedral visit with a hike up to Kotor Fortress for panoramic views. The Old Town of Kotor itself invites exploration through narrow lanes.
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Getting there
The cathedral is in the heart of Kotor's Old Town, which is accessible only on foot. Park outside the city walls and enter through one of the town gates.
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Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning before cruise ships dock to experience the cathedral peacefully. The entry fee is especially worthwhile for the treasury museum with its relics.

Geography

Coordinates
42.42470, 18.77150

Facts

  • The cathedral was officially consecrated on June 19, 1166.
  • Contains the relics of Saint Tryphon, which arrived in Kotor in 809 AD.
  • The facade features two asymmetrical bell towers built at different times.
  • Survived two major earthquakes, in 1667 and 1979, requiring major repairs.
  • The silver altar canopy is a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing.
  • Listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor since 1979.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (10)

The Drago Palace🏰 castle

The Drago Palace in Kotor is a historic building from the Venetian period.

Maritime Museum (Former place of Grgurina family 18th century)🏛 museum

The Maritime Museum in Kotor displays exhibits on the seafaring history of the Bay of Kotor.

🕒 Mo-Fr 08:00-18:00; Sa,Su,PH 09:00-18:00💶

The Grgurina Palace🏰 castle

The Grgurina Palace, built in the 18th century in Baroque style, features stone balconies on its facade.

Karampana

Karampana is a square in Kotor, known for its fountain and surrounding old stone houses.

St. Tryphon Cathedral

St. Tryphon Cathedral is the seat of the Catholic Bishopric of Kotor.

Church of St Paul

The Church of St Paul in Kotor is a small medieval church.

St. Anna church

St. Anna Church in Kotor is a simple, historic church building.

The Pima Palace🏰 castle

The Pima Palace, built after the 1667 earthquake, dominates the square with its Renaissance facade.

Galerija Solidarnosti

Galerija Solidarnosti in Kotor hosts contemporary art exhibitions.

Galerija nives

Galerija nives in Kotor showcases works by local artists.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the cathedral located?
It stands in the square of the same name in the Old Town of Kotor.
How old is the cathedral?
The current cathedral was consecrated in 1166, but it is based on a 9th-century building.
Why do the towers have different roofs?
After the 1667 earthquake, they were rebuilt in stages; a lack of funds delayed the completion of one tower.
What can you see inside?
In addition to the architecture, there is a treasury with valuable relics and goldsmith work.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, a small fee (approx. 3-4 euros) is charged to visit the interior and the treasury.
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon: where is it located?
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon is located in Montenegro.
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Drago Palace, Maritime Museum (Former place of Grgurina family 18th century), The Grgurina Palace.
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon: why is it worth visiting?
The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in Kotor is one of the most significant monuments of medieval architecture on the Adriatic coast, consecrated in 1166.
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