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Savina Monastery
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Savina Monastery is located in a lush parkland on the outskirts of Herceg Novi and is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque ensembles on the Adriatic coast. It consists of three churches: the Small Church of the Assumption (11th century), the Church of St. Sava, and the Great Church of the Assumption (18th century). The Great Church was built between 1777 and 1799 by the Dalmatian architect Nikola Foretić, featuring a richly decorated iconostasis and distinctive Baroque elements. The monastery preserves valuable treasures, including the relics of Queen Jelena and the famous crystal cross of St. Sava from the 13th century. Savina has been an educational hub for centuries, housing a significant library with rare manuscripts and early printed books. Its position overlooking the Bay of Kotor provides a serene atmosphere where spirituality and history blend harmoniously. Today, the monastery is a major pilgrimage destination and a symbol of the cultural richness of the Boka Kotorska region.
- Location: Montenegro
- Nearby: Gošići (12 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 monastery complex, including its beautifully preserved baroque churches and serene grounds, is generally open to respectful visitors. Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is strictly required for entering the places of worship.
Typical hours
Religious sites in Montenegro typically welcome visitors during daytime hours, from morning until late afternoon. Access is often restricted or paused during regular church services, liturgical events, and local religious holidays.
Photography
Photography of the impressive 18th-century exterior architecture and the lush surrounding landscape is usually permitted. However, taking photos inside the churches is almost always forbidden to maintain the spiritual atmosphere.
Time needed
A thorough visit to admire the baroque facades, explore the quiet courtyards, and appreciate the panoramic views will take about thirty to forty-five minutes. Take extra time to simply absorb the peaceful ambiance of the area.
Combine with
The monastery's location makes it a great addition to a leisurely walk along the Herceg Novi coastal promenade. You can also explore the historic old town of Herceg Novi and its impressive coastal fortresses nearby.
Getting there
The site is accessible by foot from the center of Herceg Novi via walking paths, though the route involves some uphill sections. Visitors arriving by car can usually find parking spaces along the nearby residential streets.
Insider tip
Walk slightly beyond the main complex to discover memorable, elevated views over the entrance of the Bay of Kotor. The light is particularly magical for observing the bay during the late afternoon hours.
Geography
Facts
- Consists of three churches built in different centuries.
- The oldest church is believed to date back to 1030.
- The Great Baroque church was built between 1777 and 1799.
- Houses the famous 13th-century crystal cross of St. Sava.
- Contains the relics of Queen Jelena of Serbia.
- Located within a dense Mediterranean park near the coast.
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.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Savina Monastery (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Savina Monastery located?
In Herceg Novi, overlooking the bay.
How many churches are there?
There are three churches in the monastery complex.
What is in the treasury?
It contains valuable relics and manuscripts.
When was the big church built?
Between 1777 and 1799.
Is there wine there?
Yes, the monastery is famous for its vineyards.
Savina Monastery: where is it located?
Savina Monastery is located in Montenegro.
Savina Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Savina Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
Savina Monastery is located in a lush parkland on the outskirts of Herceg Novi and is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque ensembles on the Adriatic coast.
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