Overlooking the Adriatic Sea between Budva and Bar, Petrovac is a coastal town in southern Montenegro. Its history dates back to Roman times, with a 4th-century mosaic floor uncovered here in the early 20th century. Petrovac is fronted by a 600-metre-long beach that comes to life during the summer months and is watched over by a Venetian fortress built to ward off pirate attacks.
Things to do in Petrovac
One of Petrovac’s most important religious buildings is St. Thomas Church, which is surrounded by a beautiful garden filled with olive, fig and pomegranate trees. A path leads from the church to the archaeological remains of a Roman building that is believed to date back to the 4th century. Today, a glass shed protects a section of its magnificent mosaics.
For elevated views across Montenegro’s coastline, climb the stairs that lead to the Venetian-built fortress of Kastio. Established in the 16th century, it now serves as a memorial to the fallen soldiers of World War II. Also hidden with the castle’s foliage is a bas-relief commemorating Montenegro’s socialist revolution.
A short boat ride from Petrovac are the rocky islets of Katič and Sveta Nedjelja, which provide an important habitat for sea birds. The latter is topped by a small church built by a Greek sailor in gratitude for surviving a shipwreck nearby. Locals believe that if you ring the church bell, it will bring health and happiness.
Getting around Petrovac
Petrovac is around 45 minutes’ drive from Tivat Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Regular buses connect to Petrovac and the town is small enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the region.