Podgorica: Surprising Delights Beyond Great Wine

The capital of Montenegro sits centrally at the meeting point of the Morača and Ribnica rivers. Podgorica boasts a history stretching back to Roman times, alongside a vibrant modern life.

This southern Montenegro region has seen the influence of Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Austro-Hungarians, each leaving a cultural mark on Podgorica.

Once labeled the most boring city in Europe, it offers unexpected surprises.

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Old and New in Harmony

Historic parts of the city feature narrow streets and old mosques, echoing Ottoman times, while the modern city showcases wide boulevards and contemporary architecture.

Podgorica blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Surrounded by the Bjelasica and Komovi mountains, rivers, and lakes, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts. It hosts the largest water surface in the Balkans, Lake Skadar. Straddling the border between Albania and Montenegro, it boasts rich biodiversity, with over 280 bird species, many endangered. Near Lake Skadar, enjoy scenic views, historic monasteries, and ancient fishing villages.

The city is notable for its contrast between modern architecture and traditional Balkan features, offering ample exploration opportunities.

Podgorica's Wine Region

Montenegro is celebrated for its cuisine. In Podgorica, you can indulge in traditional Balkan dishes, fresh fish, and quality wines from local vineyards.

The areas around Podgorica, particularly Zeta and near Lake Skadar, are among Europe's oldest and largest wine regions.

The Plantaž winery in Podgorica boasts the largest uninterrupted vineyard in Europe. This wine is a staple in Montenegrin restaurants, but you can also savor it directly in the wine cellar, which has a unique past. Once a military aircraft underground hangar, it was bombed in 1999, then reconstructed to store around two million liters of wine.

What to See in Podgorica and Surroundings

As Montenegro's capital, Podgorica boasts a well-developed transport network, including an international airport. This makes it easily accessible for tourists worldwide. Its location near other popular Montenegrin spots makes it an ideal base for further exploration.

Podgorica's Bridges

This small city has been rebuilt several times, leaving few monuments. One of the remaining historical sites is the Old Bridge, dating back to Roman times. It was gradually reconstructed under Ottoman rule, spanning the Ribnica River near its confluence with the Morača River, overlooking the city.

A short walk from the Old Bridge leads to the modern Millennium Bridge. This symbol of Podgorica showcases impressive architecture and aesthetic design.

Stara Varoš - Old Town

The historic district, with its narrow streets, mosques, and traditional houses, offers a glimpse into Podgorica's past. The Old Town, dating back to the Ottoman era, is a bustling shopping area with jewelry stores, restaurants, and boutiques.

World War II bombings destroyed much of the historic area. The only Turkish remnants are two mosques and a clock tower, rebuilt in 2005.

Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ

This impressive Orthodox cathedral, known for its modern architecture and rich frescoes, is centrally located in Podgorica. Built in 1993 on an open field among 9th-century gravestones, it stands out with its massive white marble walls and large domes. Inside, golden paintings adorn the walls. A notable fresco features Marx, Tito, and other atheism symbols in flames, highlighting the region's spiritual revival.

Visitors should wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees.

Ruins of Doclea

Doclea, or Duklja in Montenegro, showcases Roman city remains, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located about 5 km from the city, all artifacts found here are displayed in the Podgorica Museum.

Visitors can freely explore the ancient ruins. Among the discoveries are around 300 tombs dating back to the 1st century.

Niagara Falls

South of Podgorica, the Cijevna River features popular waterfalls. Though smaller and less known than their American namesake, they offer a pleasant view of cascading waters over limestone cliffs. In summer, the water provides a refreshing swim.

Lake Skadar

Southern Europe's largest lake splits Montenegro and Albania. Skadar is a national park teeming with birds and wildlife.

Visitors can enjoy walking, birdwatching, boating, or exploring local villages with traditional cuisine.

Animal Sanctuary

Animal Shelter and Recovery Montenegro isn't a typical zoo. This animal protection organization has created a vast open space in the hills near Podgorica, where kids frolic, deer graze, and piglets trot. Visitors can pet abandoned circus llamas and camels.

Try feeding piglets from a bottle or admire the diverse animals, from peacocks and geese to turtles, horses, dogs, and other species needing care.

For more activities, visit nearby Gorica Park and explore the rope center in the treetops. Fun awaits the whole family with courses for children and adults featuring obstacles.

Extra Tips

Podgorica is lush with nature and urban parks. The most famous are Karađorđev and Royal Park, leading to King Nikola's milestone and back to the Old Town.

Though Montenegro isn't in the European Union, it adopted the euro in 1999. Compared to most European capitals, shopping in Podgorica is relatively affordable. A full meal in a restaurant costs only 7 to 10 euros.

Conclusion

Podgorica, strategically placed between Lake Skadar, the Morača River, and the Bjelasica Mountains, has changed names five times. From Roman times, it was occupied by Ottomans, Austro-Hungarians, and Serbs. World War II drastically altered the city.

Yet, it has emerged as a significant regional center. Today, bustling Podgorica thrives with a café culture, exceptional wine, and nature all around.