Kotor, a coastal town in Montenegro, has an undeniable charm that’s deeply rooted in its rich past. Enclosed by thick medieval stone walls and perched by the sparkling Bay of Kotor, the city stands as a silent witness to centuries of maritime history. The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, a Romanesque marvel built in the 12th century, holds tales of battles and resilience, bearing scars from multiple earthquakes but standing defiantly as a symbol of Kotor’s enduring spirit.

Strolling through the narrow labyrinthine streets, I was struck by the blend of Venetian and local architectural styles, hinting at Kotor’s storied past under Venetian rule. With every step, I felt the echoes of sailors, merchants, and craftsmen who once treaded these very cobblestones. Climbing up to the San Giovanni Fortress, the panoramic view of the bay and terracotta rooftops was nothing short of breathtaking. In Kotor, every stone, alley, and viewpoint gracefully balances the weight of history with the beauty of the present.