Things to see and do Podgorica (Подгорица)

Dating from the ^10th century, this beautiful church was erected on the hillside that gave its name to the city, Gorica. It is the oldest religious building in the country. Small Greek-Orthodox chapel dedicated to St. George, covered with frescoes of more than seven hundred years covering the vault and the holy of holies, it is worth the trip. This small church, placed in its green setting, has a certain charm, at the doors of a very beautiful park to visit as well.

The Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, more commonly called Hram by locals, is a Serbian Orthodox cathedral, the largest in the capital. It is located in the Momišići district, not far from the city centre, in the "new" district. Built between 1993 and 2013, based on the plans of Serbian architect Predrag Ristić, the building is one of the main monuments of modern Podgorica. Several different styles were used: Roman-style architecture and arches, Italian-style frescoes and stained glass windows, but also typical Byzantine bas-reliefs and decorum. After 20 years of construction, the long-awaited opening ceremony on October 4, 2013, the date chosen to mark the 1,700th anniversary of the Edict of Milan (an important religious text for both Catholics and Orthodox), was celebrated in the presence of many prestigious Orthodox priests, such as the Serbian Patriarch Irenaeus and Patriarch Theophilus III of Jerusalem. The central dome, almost 42 meters high at its peak, is decorated inside with golden and very colorful paintings and frescoes. The most important of these is the one visible at the entrance of the building, which tells the story of the Resurrection of Christ, the event from which the cathedral takes its name. The marble floor reflects the richness and importance of the work. The two towers of more than 26 meters protect the bells. One of them is the biggest in the Balkan countries, weighing 11 tons. At the foot of these towers there are two chapels, erected in memory of St Simeon (1114-1200) and St Jovan Vladimir (990-1016).

Moreover, access is relatively easy because, unlike the complicated parking streets in the city centre, the Hram can accommodate hundreds of visitors thanks to its giant car park next to the cathedral; on the sides, a beautiful terrace will save you from the hot summer heat. At Christmas or Easter, it is a real fervour that brings thousands of orthodox Montenegrins to gather by turning several times around the cathedral at the end of the celebration. Now known throughout Europe, the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ has become a real place of pilgrimage for Orthodox from all over the region. With its imposing stature and representing one of the most beautiful testimonies of Serbian Orthodox art, the Hram is one of the most touristic places in the capital.

The symbol of the "Old Town", located on the left bank of the Ribnica River, this stone clock tower was erected in 1667. It is 16 meters high and is one of the few remains of the Ottoman era in Podgorica, spared from bombing during the Second World War. The mechanism was completely replaced in 2012. Located in the heart of the old Ottoman city, it will be the starting point to visit the mosques and shops in the vicinity.

This early 20th century house on the banks of the Ribnica River belonged to Kuslev, a dentist of the royal family, and was later converted into a museum. The museum's collection on the first floor of the building includes some paintings by the famous painter Petar Lubarda, pottery, vases and jewellery found during excavations at the site of the ancient city of Doclea, Orthodox icons, as well as some lavishly decorated traditional costumes and weapons.

The former winter residence of the Petrović family (built in 1891), situated in the middle of a shady park, has been part of the Centre for Contemporary Art since 1995. Transformed into an art gallery in 1984, the residence hosted many foreign artists for several years, some of whose paintings are now exhibited on the^3rd floor of the building. Well kept, refreshing and very quiet, the park is one of the most pleasant places to walk in the city.

Located on the banks of the Ribnica River, under the "New Bridge" (Novi Most). Without roof, with an original interior not preserved, they are today transformed into a cultural center.

From the beginning of the Ottoman occupation, the Turkish baths allowed the city's notables to come and bathe and take care of their bodies. They also had a very important social function, which was to be able to join a circle of acquaintances always useful.

Located after the Milenijum Bridge over the Morača River, with its back to the city center, Vezirov most is the oldest bridge in the city. Built in the 16th century by the great Ottoman vizier Mehmed Pasha Sokolovič, it was for a very long time the only bridge in Podgorica. Built of stone, it is recognizable by its vaulted arches. Legend has it that the architect built it from a sand and egg mortar that makes it indestructible. In August, diving competitions are held here.

This mosque, erected by Skender Čauševa in the 15th century, has been restored several times. Now the seat of the Mufti of Montenegro, it is located near the fortifications in the park of Stari most.

Starodoganjska is a small but typical Ottoman mosque. With a sober and modest interior, it has a rectangular hall with a terracotta tile floor. It has preserved three elements of Islamic art: mihrab, minbar and a medium-sized minaret.

Built in the 18th century by Mehmed-paša Osmanagić, it was severely damaged during the American bombing in November 1944. Dating from the Ottoman era, this mosque was restored in 2011 with Turkish support and some success. It offers an interesting example of the Ottoman style. The exterior walls are unplastered, red tiles cover the roof of the main hall and a white needle-like minaret completes the structure.

Located a few kilometers from Podgorica, this small monastery was erected in 1897 by Father Simeon Popović. Here, it is the interior of the building that deserves a visit. At the heart of the building is a curious cave covered with religious paintings. Made by Father Popović, these "frescoes" were painted directly on the irregular surface of the rock. Although humidity has caused the loss of many details, visiting the place remains a singular experience.

Located right next to the Republic Square and next to the shopping center "Carine". This is where you can get all the practical information (rates, hotel rooms, museum opening hours) you need for your stay in Montenegro. Practical leaflets on various topics and sometimes French-speaking employees. The tourist office of Podgorica has a very informative website about Podgorica. The only drawback is a certain slowness linked to the very administrative character of the institution.

You enter through a beautiful promenade in the shade of high plane trees and surrounded by flower boxes. After 500 meters, there is a nice establishment with a terrace where you can enjoy refreshments, children can enjoy playgrounds and tree courses. Climb the Gorica to its summit where you can enjoy a breathtaking view. By taking this walk, you will get to know the essence of the city, as Pod Gorica means "under the Gorica"; since its establishment in 1326, Podgorica has been built around this beloved hill.