Heritage of ancient cetinje and lipa cave
Just half an hour drive from Budva - and you are in the ancient, soulful Cetinje, the main symbol of the Montenegrin people. On the walk you will trace the stages that passed not only the historical capital, but also the whole of Montenegro. Visit one of the most important monasteries of the country and walk through the labyrinths of the Lipa Cave - the largest in the ex-Yugoslavia.
What awaits you
Cetinje – the spirit of antiquity and the history of the royal capital
The tour will begin with a climb along the mountain serpentine. On the way there will be several stops at the most spectacular panoramic platforms, which offer beautiful views of the sea and the Budva Riviera. And in an hour you will arrive in Cetinje - the historical and cultural capital of Montenegro. On a walk through the ancient atmospheric streets, I will tell you about the emergence of the city and its rich 5-century history, inextricably linked with the formation of the state and the struggle for independence from the Ottoman and other conquerors. Also, if you wish, you can visit the palace of Nikola I, the first and last king of Montenegro, where you will see things from the reign of Njegosha.
Cetinje Monastery – a symbol of Orthodox Montenegro
In one of the most important spiritual centers of the country, you will learn about the difficult fate of the monastery, which has been destroyed to the ground more than once. I will tell you how such significant Orthodox shrines as the Right Hand of John the Baptist, a piece of the Holy Cross and other important artifacts appeared here. Let's talk about a valuable library with ancient manuscripts and rare books. And in the historical museum you will hear about the relics of the Order of Malta, gifts of Russian tsars and grand dukes and inspect the Philermo Icon of the Mother of God, painted by the Apostle Luke himself in 46.
The largest cave in the former Yugoslavia
In the second part of the program you will go to explore the world of the karst Lipa cave. You will learn about the history of its discovery and the visits of distinguished guests at the invitation of King Nikola. Accompanied by a local guide, you will walk through the corridors of the restored, magnificently equipped and illuminated cave. Consider interesting samples of stalactites and stalagmites. And you will hear about the research that is still being conducted in a long system of labyrinths stretching for 3.5 km.
Finally, if you wish, I will take you to a nice restaurant where you can taste traditional local cuisine.
Organizational details
- I will take a car to your hotel or apartment in Tivat or Budva. If you live in other cities, I will be able to pick you up for an additional fee, based on the distance from the starting point of the tour.
- The price of the tour does not include an entrance ticket to the cave (10 euros / adult and 8 euros / child from 12 years old); lunch in a restaurant, optional visit to the Palace of King Nikola (5 euros / person) and the historical museum (3 euros / person).
- The temperature in the caves ranges from 8 to 12 degrees. So you need to take warm clothes with you. If anything, you will be given a poncho rental on the spot.
- Also take care of clothes appropriate to the visit to the monastery (standard requirements).