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Old Town of Bar
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ruins
The Old Town of Bar, known as Stari Bar, is located at the foot of Mount Rumija and is one of the largest open-air archaeological sites in the Balkans. The settlement has over 2,500 years of history, ranging from the Illyrians, Romans, and Byzantines to the Slavs, Venetians, and Ottomans. Within the city walls are the remains of over 600 buildings, including medieval churches, palaces, and a well-preserved aqueduct from the Ottoman period. Unlike other coastal towns, Stari Bar was abandoned following heavy destruction from an ammunition explosion in 1877 and the severe 1979 earthquake. Today, the site functions as an open-air museum providing insight into Montenegro's complex layered history. Its most prominent landmarks include the 18th-century Clock Tower and the citadel, which provides panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the modern city of Bar.
- Location: Montenegro
- Top sights: Kunteljat · Čugagolina · Bazeni Bartula
- Nearby: Sutomore (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 19 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 23 | 19 | 15 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 147 | 141 | 129 | 95 | 76 | 56 | 31 | 37 | 109 | 131 | 176 | 169 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Old Town of Bar is a sprawling ruined city that is freely accessible to explore. There are no closed-off areas; the ruins are walkable anytime, though certain sectors may require an entry fee.
Typical hours
As an outdoor site, there are no fixed opening hours - access is best during daylight. Some restored buildings like the clock tower may have their own visiting hours, signposted on site.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the ruins and is very rewarding for striking shots. Use a wide-angle perspective to capture the city's extent, and mind the good morning light.
Time needed
For a thorough walk through the ruins, allow about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you also want to visit the archaeological museum, add another 30 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the Old Town of Bar with a visit to the nearby aqueduct and olive trees over 2000 years old. The city of Bar itself with its seaside promenade is also worth a detour.
Getting there
The ruins are about 4 km from Bar city center, easily reachable by car or taxi. There's a parking lot at the entrance; from there you explore the site on foot.
Insider tip
Bring plenty of water and sturdy shoes, as the terrain is uneven and sunny. An early morning or late afternoon visit avoids the midday heat and provides nice lighting.
Geography
Facts
- The town was permanently abandoned after the 1979 earthquake.
- The Ottoman aqueduct was constructed during the 17th century.
- More than 600 ruined buildings are located within the walls.
- The iconic Clock Tower was built in 1753.
- Stari Bar is situated about 4 kilometers inland from the coast.
- The settlement was under Ottoman rule for over 300 years.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Old Town of Bar (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Old Town inhabited?
No, it is a city of ruins and an open-air museum.
When was the city abandoned?
After an earthquake in 1979.
How much is the entrance fee?
Entrance costs about 5 Euros.
What is the oldest sight?
The Venetian aqueduct and the clock tower.
Is there shade in the ruin city?
Very little, take water and a hat.
Old Town of Bar: where is it located?
Old Town of Bar is located in Montenegro.
Old Town of Bar: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kunteljat, Čugagolina, Bazeni Bartula.
Old Town of Bar: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Old Town of Bar: why is it worth visiting?
The Old Town of Bar, known as Stari Bar, is located at the foot of Mount Rumija and is one of the largest open-air archaeological sites in the Balkans.
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