Sea Gate

Kotor


The main entrance to the town was constructed in 1555 when it was under Venetian rule (1420–1797). Look out for the winged lion of St Mark, Venice’s symbol, which is displayed prominently on the walls here and in several other spots around the town. Above the gate, the date of the city’s liberation from the Nazis is remembered with a communist star and a quote from Tito. An enormous (and inexplicable) bench outside the entrance makes for amusing snaps.

As you pass through the gate, look for the 15th-century stone relief of the Madonna and Child flanked by St Tryphon and St Bernard.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Kotor attractions

1. Clock Tower

0.02 MILES

Built in 1602, this tall tower looks down on an unusual stone pyramid; it was once a pillory used to shame wayward citizens.

2. Cats Museum

0.03 MILES

Crazy cat people and those with a fondness for whimsical vintage art will adore this charming museum, home to thousands of moggie-themed postcards,…

3. St Claire's Franciscan Church

0.07 MILES

Aside from a fine rose window there's not much ornamentation on the facade of this Catholic church, built between the 14th and 17th centuries. But head…

4. Maritime Museum of Montenegro

0.09 MILES

Kotor's proud history as a naval power is celebrated in three storeys of displays housed in a wonderful early-18th-century palace. An audio guide helps…

5. St Luke’s Church

0.09 MILES

Sweet little St Luke’s speaks volumes about the history of Croat-Serb relations in Kotor. It was constructed in 1195 as a Catholic church, but from 1657…

6. St Nicholas’ Church

0.09 MILES

Breathe in the smell of incense and beeswax in this Orthodox church, built in 1909 and adorned with four huge canvasses depicting the gospel writers, a…

7. St Tryphon’s Cathedral

0.1 MILES

Kotor’s most impressive building, this Catholic cathedral was consecrated in 1166 but reconstructed after several earthquakes. When the entire frontage…

8. St Mary's Collegiate Church

0.14 MILES

Built in 1221 on the site of a 6th-century basilica, this Catholic church is distinguished by impressive 20th-century bronze doors covered in bas-reliefs,…