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Clock Tower of Perast
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The Clock Tower of Perast is the most prominent landmark in the town, belonging to the Church of Saint Nicholas located in the center. Standing 55 meters tall, it is the highest church tower in the entire Bay of Kotor and was completed in 1691. The design was created by the famous Venetian architect Ivan Skarpa, who blended Baroque elements with local stonemasonry techniques. The tower was constructed using light-colored limestone from the island of Korčula, giving it a characteristic elegance. For centuries, it served not only as a religious symbol but also as a strategic lookout point for defense against approaching naval threats. Inside the tower are two large bells cast in Venice during the 18th century. The tower's clock is one of the oldest in the region and remains functional today, setting the acoustic rhythm of life in Perast. Climbing the tower provides a panoramic view of the Our Lady of the Rocks and Saint George islands.
- Location: Montenegro
- Nearby: Prcanj (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 10 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 156 | 152 | 138 | 103 | 89 | 67 | 42 | 43 | 116 | 138 | 187 | 178 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Clock Tower of Perast is a freestanding structure and can be viewed from outside at any time. Entering the tower is not possible.
Typical hours
Since the tower is not accessible, there are no opening hours. It is visible from outside around the clock.
Photography
Photography is possible at any time; the tower is a popular photo subject. The best perspective is from the waterfront promenade.
Time needed
Viewing the tower from outside takes only a few minutes. But allow some time for photos.
Combine with
Combine the tower with the neighboring St. Nicholas Church. Also, a stroll through the narrow streets of Perast fits well.
Getting there
The tower stands right next to St. Nicholas Church on the waterfront street. It is easily accessible on foot.
Insider tip
The clock tower is a rewarding photo subject especially under a blue sky. Photograph it late afternoon for warm colors.
Geography
Facts
- The tower was officially completed in the year 1691.
- At 55 meters, it is the tallest belfry in the entire Bay of Kotor.
- The construction cost was 50,000 gold ducats, a massive amount at the time.
- Designed by the renowned Venetian architect Ivan Skarpa.
- The historic bells were cast in Venice in 1713.
- Built using premium limestone sourced from the Croatian island of Korčula.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Clock Tower of Perast (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which church does the clock tower belong to?
The clock tower belongs to St. Nicholas Church in the center of Perast.
Can you climb the tower?
Yes, for a small fee, you can climb the 55-meter-high tower.
How is the view from the top?
You have a fantastic view of the rooftops of Perast and the two islands in the bay.
When was the tower built?
It was completed in 1691 and was the highest on the eastern Adriatic coast at that time.
Is there a clock that still works?
Yes, the clockwork is historical and strikes every full hour.
Clock Tower of Perast: where is it located?
Clock Tower of Perast is located in Montenegro.
Clock Tower of Perast: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Clock Tower of Perast: why is it worth visiting?
The Clock Tower of Perast is the most prominent landmark in the town, belonging to the Church of Saint Nicholas located in the center.
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