Collegiate Church of St Mary
A historic Catholic church in Kotor's Old Town, featuring stunning 13th-century bronze doors and a museum on medieval religious history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid weekend traffic jams
Collegiate Church of St Mary
Best Time
Avoid weekend traffic jams
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Catholic church in Kotor's Old Town, featuring stunning 13th-century bronze doors and a museum on medieval religious history.
"The museum is a good use of money, offering something to see, especially if you are interested in Medieval and Renaissance history of religion."
⏳ Beat the Weekend Rush
Plan your visit for weekdays to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy a more peaceful experience in Kotor.
💰 Museum Ticket Value
Don't skip the museum! The 4€ entry fee offers great value for history enthusiasts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Bronze Doors
Entrance
Admire the intricate biblical sculptures adorning the beautiful 13th-century bronze doors, a true work of art.
Medieval and Renaissance History
Museum
Delve into the rich history of religion with fascinating exhibits, especially if you're interested in medieval and Renaissance periods.
Charming Church Atmosphere
Main Sanctuary
Experience the serene and intimate atmosphere of this small, charming Catholic church, a peaceful sanctuary in the Old Town.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Kotor's Charm
Museum Entry: Worth the Small Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Beat the Weekend Rush
Plan your visit for weekdays to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy a more peaceful experience in Kotor.
💰 Museum Ticket Value
Don't skip the museum! The 4€ entry fee offers great value for history enthusiasts.
🏛️ Admire the Bronze Doors
The 13th-century bronze doors are a must-see, featuring detailed biblical sculptures.
⛪ Peaceful Sanctuary
Enjoy the quiet and charming atmosphere of this historic Catholic church.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Beat the Weekend Rush
Plan your visit for weekdays to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy a more peaceful experience in Kotor.
💰 Museum Ticket Value
Don't skip the museum! The 4€ entry fee offers great value for history enthusiasts.
🏛️ Admire the Bronze Doors
The 13th-century bronze doors are a must-see, featuring detailed biblical sculptures.
⛪ Peaceful Sanctuary
Enjoy the quiet and charming atmosphere of this historic Catholic church.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Collegiate Church of St Mary to be a charming and historically significant site within Kotor's Old Town. While the main church is free to enter, the small fee for the museum is considered well worth it for its insights into medieval religious history. The beautiful bronze doors are a consistent highlight, offering a glimpse into the church's rich past.
"Built in 1221 over the former site of a 6th century Basilica. Unfortunately the 16th century frescoes have largely disappeared."
Miles Macdonald
"The entrance to the museum costs 4€. At first we wouldn't pay for it, but then we read a comment here that persuaded us, that that is a good use of money. I haven't regretted this, as there is really something to see, especially if you are interested in Medieval and Renaissance history of religion."
Diana
"A small and charming church"
Shukhrat Usmanov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Collegiate Church of St Mary is located within the historic Old Town of Kotor. If you're arriving by car, be aware that traffic can be heavy on weekends, especially towards Tivat and Budva. It's best to park outside the Old Town walls and walk in.
Parking is generally not available directly within the Old Town. There are several paid parking lots located just outside the city walls, which are a short walk from the church.
If you are coming from other towns in Montenegro, buses are a common way to reach Kotor. From the bus station, it's a short walk to the Old Town and the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main church is generally free. However, there is a small entrance fee of approximately 4€ to access the museum located within the church complex.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the church is open during daylight hours. The museum may have more specific operating times. It's advisable to check locally or look for signs upon arrival.
For the church and museum, advance booking is usually not required. You can typically purchase museum tickets upon arrival.
The museum ticket grants access to exhibits detailing the medieval and Renaissance history of religion, offering a deeper understanding of the church's past and significance.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the beautiful 13th-century bronze doors with biblical sculptures, explore the main sanctuary with its charming atmosphere, and visit the museum for historical insights.
Absolutely! The church and its museum are rich in history, particularly focusing on medieval and Renaissance religious periods.
A visit to the church and museum can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in the exhibits.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to look for signage or ask a church official if you are unsure about taking photos inside.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the church is located within Kotor's Old Town, which is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
You can expect delicious seafood, traditional Montenegrin dishes, and Mediterranean flavors. Many eateries offer outdoor seating within the charming old town streets.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricate bronze doors are a prime subject. The exterior architecture of the church within the Old Town setting also makes for great shots.
While general photography outside is fine, always check for specific rules regarding interior photography within the church and museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip for families: Focus on the visual aspects of the church and its surroundings. The Old Town offers plenty of open squares where children can move around more freely. Pack snacks and water, as exploring can be tiring.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the 13th-century bronze doors; their intricate biblical sculptures are a significant artistic and historical artifact. Understanding the church's evolution and its role within Kotor's past will greatly enhance your appreciation of this site.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Tip for solo travelers: Combine your visit with a walk up to the Kotor Fortress for stunning panoramic views of the bay. The church provides a grounding historical counterpoint to the more active exploration of the fortress.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visitors interested in the medieval and Renaissance periods will find the adjacent museum particularly rewarding. The small entrance fee unlocks a deeper understanding of the church's past, offering insights into religious practices and art from these eras. The stunning bronze doors, a testament to craftsmanship from the 13th century, are a highlight, featuring detailed biblical sculptures that draw the eye and spark conversation.
Despite its modest size, the church offers a peaceful and charming atmosphere, providing a quiet respite from the bustling streets of the Old Town. It's a place where history, art, and spirituality converge, making it a valuable stop for anyone exploring Kotor.
Navigating Kotor's Old Town
Weekends are particularly busy in Kotor, with increased traffic and crowds, especially on routes leading to popular coastal towns like Tivat and Budva. Travelers are advised to plan their visits to the Old Town and its attractions, including the Collegiate Church, during weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed and less congested experience.
Exploring the Old Town is best done on foot. Allow ample time to wander through its narrow alleys, discover hidden squares, and soak in the Venetian architecture. The Collegiate Church is just one of many historical gems waiting to be uncovered within these ancient walls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit