Ratac Monastery Ruins Montenegro
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Ratac Monastery Ruins Montenegro

4.4
·174 reviews·Sutomore, Montenegro

Ancient Benedictine monastery ruins offering dramatic sea views and a historical escape near Bar, Montenegro. A unique spot for exploration.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for photos

CrowdLow
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Ratac Monastery Ruins Montenegro

Ratac Monastery Ruins Montenegro

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ancient Benedictine monastery ruins offering dramatic sea views and a historical escape near Bar, Montenegro. A unique spot for exploration.

4.4
(174 reviews)

"Very eerie place with stunning views of the sea. Great opportunity to explore history and nature beauty in one go."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Bar

It's a 2-hour walk from Bar center. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

⚠️ Safety First

Solo female travelers report feeling unsafe. Consider going with a group. :warning:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Benedictine Abbey

Ancient Benedictine Abbey

Near Bar, Montenegro

Explore the remnants of a monastery founded around 1247, offering a glimpse into medieval history.

Stunning Sea Vistas

Stunning Sea Vistas

Coastal cliffs

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea from the monastery's elevated position.

Olive Oil Press Ruins

Olive Oil Press Ruins

Within the monastery complex

Discover the historical ruins of an olive oil press, showcasing ancient agricultural practices.

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Planning Your Visit

Access & Safety

Reaching Ratac Monastery Ruins involves a walk, often 2 hours from Bar. Be aware of your surroundings; solo female travelers have reported feeling unsafe due to unwanted attention. Consider visiting with a group or during busier times.

Expectations & Best Use

These are ancient, abandoned ruins in a state of disrepair, though some areas are cleaner. It's a unique spot for photography and appreciating history with sea views, especially at sunset. Don't expect a fully restored site.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
More people around
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dance Stalking from Montenegro Location: ruins of the ancient Benedictine monastery of the Ratac Mother of God, which is also called the Ratac Abbey. Founded near 1247 year. dance: @sharly_wanderer japanese flute: @chalovskyart_blog camera: @chayinka #dancestalking #butohdance #sitespecific #sitespecificdance #sitespecificperformance #sitespecificart #dancewithspace #ratacabbey
sharly_wanderer
18 likes • 281 views

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Bar

It's a 2-hour walk from Bar center. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

⚠️ Safety First

Solo female travelers report feeling unsafe. Consider going with a group. :warning:

September 23, 2025, SMOLOW Bar. A solo exhibition of graphic works on the walls of the ruins of the Ratac Monastery in Montenegro. In the open air, surrounded by pine trees, drawings from a journey through the Balkans are displayed on the ancient walls. Exhibition idea: Johann Nikadimus. 📍Montenegro, Ratac, Ratac Monastery.
smolow
49 likes • 1.1K views
Dance Stalking from Ratac Abbey, Montenegro, part 2 Location: ruins of the ancient Benedictine monastery of the Ratac Mother of God, which is also called the Ratac Abbey. Founded near 1247 year. dance: @sharly_wanderer japanese flute: @chalovskyart_blog camera: @chayinka #dancestalking #butohdance #sitespecific #sitespecificdance #sitespecificperformance #sitespecificart #dancewithspace #rataca...
sharly_wanderer
18 likes • 683 views

📸 Sunset Views

The ruins offer stunning sea views, especially beautiful at sunset. :camerawithflash:

✨ Off the Beaten Path

A hidden gem offering history and nature. Worth the effort if you like exploring. :sparkles:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Bar

It's a 2-hour walk from Bar center. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

⚠️ Safety First

Solo female travelers report feeling unsafe. Consider going with a group. :warning:

📸 Sunset Views

The ruins offer stunning sea views, especially beautiful at sunset. :camerawithflash:

✨ Off the Beaten Path

A hidden gem offering history and nature. Worth the effort if you like exploring. :sparkles:

🎨 Site-Specific Art

The ruins have been used for unique art installations and performances. :performing_arts:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(174 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Ratac Monastery Ruins to be a hidden gem offering stunning sea views and a glimpse into history, especially beautiful at sunset. However, the journey can be long, and some report feeling unsafe due to unwanted attention, making it less ideal for solo female travelers.

"I reached out to Monastery Ratac by walking for 2 hours from the center of Bar, but It was very worth to a visit. The hidden gem of Bar."

Park팍

"We wanted to see the monastery but unfortunately there was a really bad vibe, a Guy ask our instagram and ask if we wanted tu drink. 2 others looked suspicious, so we were scared And decide not to go. And we went back home, the first guy followed us during for like 15 min, he started to run so we run Also, it was really scary so please don’t go alone as a woman !"

Léopoldine De Maintenant

"Old monastery, in very bad condition, dirty outside but clean inside. Nice place to visit on sunset, but don’t expect too much from it, it is small and abandoned"

Dmytro Korol

What People Like

Stunning sea views
Historical atmosphere
Off-the-beaten-path gem

What People Dislike

Safety concerns
Long walk
State of disrepair

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is to walk from Bar center, which takes about 2 hours. There are no direct public transport options to the ruins themselves. Taxis might be able to get you closer, but the final approach is often on foot. :bus: :taxi:

It's considered 'off the beaten track.' While there are signs, it's helpful to use GPS or a map. The walk can be scenic but requires some navigation. :world_map:

Driving directly to the ruins is difficult due to the terrain and lack of established parking. Most visitors park in Bar and walk, or arrange a taxi that can get as close as possible. :car:

The path can be uneven and sometimes rocky, especially as you get closer to the ruins. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:

While not as common as tours to other major sites, some local tour operators in Bar might offer excursions. It's worth inquiring locally or checking online tour platforms. :tour_bus:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to visit the Ratac Monastery Ruins. It's an open, abandoned site. :free_admission:

As an open-air ruin, there are no official opening hours. You can visit anytime, but it's best to go during daylight hours for safety and visibility. :clock1:

There is no entrance fee. The site is freely accessible to the public. :moneywithwings:

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Daylight hours are best. :nightwithstars:

No booking is required. You can visit spontaneously. :calendar:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the ancient Benedictine monastery ruins, including remnants of an olive oil press, and enjoy stunning sea views. It's a place for historical exploration and photography. :camerawithflash: :ruins:

The ruins are in a state of disrepair, as expected for an ancient, abandoned site. Some areas are cleaner than others, but it's not a restored monument. :construction_worker:

It can be interesting for older children who appreciate history and exploring ruins. However, the uneven terrain and safety concerns mean close supervision is essential. :child:

The ruins offer great opportunities for historical, architectural, and landscape photography, especially during the golden hour at sunset. The site has also been used for site-specific dance performances. :performingarts: :camerawith_flash:

No, there are no facilities at the Ratac Monastery Ruins. You should bring your own water and snacks, and use restrooms before you leave Bar. :water_wave: :coffee:

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon, leading up to sunset, offers the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere. The golden hour casts a beautiful glow on the ruins and the sea. :sunriseovermountains:

You can capture wide shots of the ruins against the sea, detailed shots of the stonework, and panoramic views of the coastline. The site-specific art installations also offer unique photographic subjects. :camerawithflash:

Drone regulations can vary in Montenegro. It's advisable to check current local drone laws before flying. Generally, flying over historical sites or near populated areas may require permits. :drone:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and ruins. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod is recommended for sunset shots. :camera:

Yes, the atmospheric ruins have inspired artistic endeavors, including dance performances and exhibitions, making it a unique backdrop for creative photography and videography. :performingarts: :moviecamera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ratac Monastery Ruins can be an interesting, albeit challenging, outing for families. The 2-hour walk from Bar might be tiring for younger children, so consider if your kids are up for the trek. Reddit The ruins themselves offer a sense of adventure and a chance to explore history, but close supervision is crucial due to the uneven terrain and the site's abandoned nature. Reddit It's best suited for families with older children who have an interest in history and are capable of navigating slightly rough ground. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on site. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Artists

For photographers and artists, Ratac Monastery Ruins are a dream location. The atmospheric ruins, combined with the stunning sea views, provide a dramatic backdrop. Reddit The golden hour before sunset is particularly magical, offering incredible light for capturing the textures of the ancient stones and the vastness of the Adriatic. Reddit The site has even been used for site-specific art performances, highlighting its unique aesthetic appeal. Instagram+1 Be prepared for a walk and consider bringing a tripod for those sunset shots. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers

Solo travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience will find Ratac Monastery Ruins intriguing. The historical significance and panoramic sea vistas are compelling. Reddit However, it's crucial to be aware of safety concerns reported by other solo female travelers regarding unwanted attention. Reddit If you choose to go solo, inform someone of your itinerary, travel during daylight hours, and consider carrying a personal safety alarm. Reddit The walk itself is part of the adventure, so ensure you have appropriate footwear and water. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

History and Significance

The Ratac Monastery Ruins are the remnants of an ancient Benedictine abbey, officially known as the Monastery of the Mother of God of Ratac. Founded around 1247, it was a significant religious and cultural center in its time. The site's strategic location on the coast likely contributed to its importance throughout the medieval period. Exploring these ruins offers a tangible connection to Montenegro's rich historical tapestry, far from the more frequented tourist paths. The presence of an ancient olive oil press further highlights the site's historical agricultural and economic activities. Instagram

While much of the monastery has succumbed to time and neglect, the remaining structures still evoke a sense of its former grandeur. The site-specific art installations and performances that have taken place here, such as dance and graphic exhibitions, underscore the enduring appeal of these atmospheric ruins as a unique canvas for contemporary expression. Instagram+1

Visiting Ratac is an opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the resilience of historical sites. It’s a place where history, nature, and art converge, offering a contemplative experience for those willing to venture off the beaten track. Reddit

Navigating the Ruins and Safety

Reaching the Ratac Monastery Ruins typically involves a walk of approximately two hours from the center of Bar. The path can be uneven and sometimes rocky, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended. Reddit While the journey offers scenic views, it's important to be prepared for the terrain. Reddit

Safety is a significant consideration, particularly for solo female travelers. There have been reports of feeling unsafe due to unwanted attention from individuals encountered on the path or near the ruins. Reddit It is strongly advised to visit in a group or during times when more people are likely to be present. Bringing a fully charged phone and informing someone of your plans is also a prudent measure. Reddit

Once at the ruins, explore with caution. The site is abandoned and not maintained as a formal tourist attraction, meaning there are no facilities like restrooms or cafes. Reddit Be mindful of loose stones and uneven surfaces. Despite these challenges, the unique atmosphere and historical significance make it a rewarding destination for those who prioritize exploration and historical discovery.

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