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Podlastva Monastery

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Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)

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Podlastva Monastery, located in the fertile Grbalj plain near Budva, is a significant religious and cultural monument whose foundation is attributed to the Serbian Emperor Stefan Dušan in 1350. Dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, the monastery functioned for centuries as the spiritual hub for the defiant tribes of the Grbalj region, who frequently held their assemblies on these grounds. The architectural layout reflects influences from various eras, as the complex was destroyed and rebuilt several times due to Ottoman incursions and natural disasters throughout history. Inside the monastery church, visitors can see two layers of valuable frescoes: the oldest dating to the 15th century and a more recent layer painted in the 17th century. The monastery played a pivotal role in local resistance against foreign occupiers and often provided sanctuary to freedom fighters from the surrounding area. Following extensive damage during the 1979 earthquake, the entire complex underwent a comprehensive restoration to preserve its historical legacy. Today, Podlastva is home to a small community of nuns and serves as a serene sanctuary characterized by its harmonious blend of natural beauty and sacred art.

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
Podlastva Monastery in the Grbalj region is typically open to visitors. The 15th‑century church and grounds can be seen.
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Typical hours
The church is usually open during services, otherwise by arrangement with the priest. Ask locally for times.
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Photography
Outdoor photography is usually allowed. In the church, flash is often not permitted; ask for permission.
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Time needed
Visiting the monastery takes about 20 to 40 minutes. The peaceful location invites a leisurely stay.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the town of Budva or the coast of Petrovac. Nearby Gradište Monastery is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The monastery is accessible by car on a good road. Follow the signs from the main road towards Grbalj.
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Insider tip
Visit the monastery in the morning when it is quiet. Nearby there are small local wineries worth a visit.

Geography

Coordinates
42.29800, 18.79100

Facts

  • Founded in 1350 by Emperor Stefan Dušan
  • Features fresco layers from the 15th and 17th centuries
  • Center of the Grbalj tribal assemblies (Zbor)
  • Destroyed in 1869 during the Krivošije uprising
  • Extensively restored after the 1979 earthquake
  • Currently functions as an active nunnery

Explore nearby

Notable places around

ZagoraZagora3 km · WExplore →
Ballerina Statue BudvaBallerina Statue Budva4 km · SEExplore →
BeciciBecici7 km · EExplore →
Sveti Nikola IslandSveti Nikola Island7 km · SEExplore →
Praskvica MonasteryPraskvica Monastery9 km · SEExplore →
Lunjin HillLunjin Hill11 km · NEExplore →
Lovćen MountainsLovćen Mountains12 km · NExplore →
Solila Bird Watching AreaSolila Bird Watching Area13 km · NWExplore →

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 Podlastva Monastery (6)

Trsteno beach🎡 recreation

Hidden near the Podlastva Monastery is Trsteno beach, a magical destination for coastal lovers. The sheltered bay provides calm waters that invite relaxed swimming and bathing. To enjoy the peaceful nature undisturbed, arriving early in the morning is highly recommended.

Plaža Ploče🎡 recreation

Plaža Ploče beach, set against the backdrop of Manastir Podlastva, impresses with its extraordinary coastal nature. The striking stone terraces offer fantastic sunny spots with sweeping views over the deep blue sea. Travelers particularly appreciate the refreshing atmosphere and clean sea breeze here.

Zagorski Pijesak🎡 recreation

Zagorski Pijesak beach is located near Podlastva Monastery.

Podlastva⛪ religious

Serbian Orthodox monastery Podlastva in Manastir Podlastva, Montenegro.

Fortress Mogren🏰 castle

The ruins of an Austro-Hungarian fortress offering panoramic views of the coast.

Uvala Podrupice📍 landmark

Cove or inlet Uvala Podrupice near the Podlastva monastery, Montenegro.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What historical significance does Podlastva have?
It was founded in 1350 by Tsar Dušan.
Where exactly is the monastery located?
In Lastva Grbaljska, near the Budva-Kotor road.
Can the monastery be visited?
Yes, it is open daily for visitors.
Are there frescoes there?
Yes, there are well-preserved frescoes from the 17th c.
Is the monastery still in use?
Yes, it is an active nunnery.
Podlastva Monastery: where is it located?
Podlastva Monastery is located in Montenegro.
Podlastva Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Trsteno beach, Plaža Ploče, Zagorski Pijesak.
Podlastva Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Podlastva Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
Podlastva Monastery, located in the fertile Grbalj plain near Budva, is a significant religious and cultural monument whose foundation is attributed to the Serbian Emperor Stefan Dušan in 1350.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Podgorica Commerce Center — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Podgorica Commerce Center
Main business district of the Montenegrin capital with many office complexes and banks.
Zagora — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Zagora
Zagora is a quiet coastal village in Montenegro, offering a peaceful retreat away from the busy tourist hubs with stunning Adriatic sea v…
Bar — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Bar
A major port city blending modern infrastructure with the fascinating ruins of the ancient Stari Bar.
Ulcinj — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Ulcinj
The southernmost city in Montenegro, known for its oriental flair and the 13 km long sandy Velika Plaza beach.
Ulcinj Agricultural Area — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Ulcinj Agricultural Area
Region around Velika Plaza beach, known for intensive vegetable growing and olive groves.
Donji Štoj - Shtoji i Poshtëm — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Donji Štoj - Shtoji i Poshtëm
Donji Štoj is a popular holiday resort in Montenegro near Ulcinj, famous for its stunning sandy beaches and vibrant summer atmosphere.
Gošići — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Gošići
Gošići is a tranquil village on Montenegro's Luštica Peninsula, surrounded by lush olive groves and stunning natural coves along the Adri…
Tuzi Agricultural Region — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Tuzi Agricultural Region
Tuzi is a significant agricultural center, especially for wine and fruit growing.
Tuzi — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Tuzi
Tuzi is the center of the municipality of the same name in southeastern Montenegro.
Golubovci — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Golubovci
Golubovci is a town near Podgorica and the administrative center of the Golubovci city municipality.
Canj — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Canj
A peaceful bay famous for its stunning 'Pearl Beach' and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Sutomore — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Sutomore
A popular Adriatic resort town famous for its long sandy beach and vibrant summer atmosphere.
Petrovac — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Petrovac
A picturesque resort town known for its red sand beaches, Venetian fortress, and relaxed family atmosphere.
Buljarica — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Buljarica
A coastal village near Petrovac featuring a 2.2-kilometer-long pebble beach and campsites.
Spuž — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Spuž
Spuž is a settlement in the Danilovgrad municipality of central Montenegro.

History & landmarks

Lipa Cave — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Lipa Cave
One of Montenegro's largest caves, featuring stunning stalactites and massive underground halls near Cetinje.
Citadel of Budva — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Citadel of Budva
The Citadel of Budva is situated in the southern part of the old town.
Milocer Plateau — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Milocer Plateau
A gentle elevation along the Montenegrin coast above Miločer Bay.
Sveti Stefan Island — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Sveti Stefan Island
Sveti Stefan is a picturesque island off the Montenegrin coast.
Upper Vrmac Fortress — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Upper Vrmac Fortress
The Upper Vrmac Fortress complements the defensive systems in the Bay of Kotor.
Vrmac Fortress — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Vrmac Fortress
Vrmac Fortress is located on the mountain ridge of the same name.

Nature

Solila Bird Watching Area — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Solila Bird Watching Area
The Solila wetland in Tivat Bay is an important protected area for migratory birds.

More places

Ballerina Statue Budva — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Ballerina Statue Budva
The ballerina statue on the way to Mogren beach in Budva is a well-known photo opportunity.
Church of the Holy Trinity Budva — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Church of the Holy Trinity Budva
This church is located in the old town of Budva.
Old Town of Budva — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Old Town of Budva
The fortified Old Town of Budva is over 2500 years old.
Church of St. John Budva — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Church of St. John Budva
The Church of St.
Budva Marina — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Budva Marina
A popular yacht marina right next to the old town of Budva.
Sveti Nikola Island — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Sveti Nikola Island
The Sveti Nikola Island is located off the coast of Budva in the Adriatic Sea.
Praskvica Monastery — Podlastva Monastery (Montenegro)
Praskvica Monastery
Praskvica Monastery near Sveti Stefan has a long spiritual history.
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Lunjin Hill
A smaller hill near Cetinje.