Geographical location and natural conditions of Montenegro. Geographical location Geography of Montenegro

- state in Southern Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula. In the southeast it borders with Albania, in the south it is separated from Italy by the Adriatic Sea, in the west it has borders with Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The length of the sea coast of Montenegro (including the Malente Islands) is 293.5 km.

The name comes from the toponym Black Mountain.

Official name: Montenegro (Crna Gora).

Capital: Podgorica

The area of ​​the land: 13,812 sq. km

Total Population: 620 thousand people

Administrative division: Montenegro is divided into 21 communities.

Form of government: Republic.

Head of State: The president.

Population composition: 57% are Montenegrins, 30.% are Serbs, 7.77% are Bosnians, 3% are Albanians, 1% are Russians, 0.42% are Roma.

Official language: Montenegrin. Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Albanian are also recognized as official languages.

Religion: 74.24% are Orthodox, 17.74% are Muslim, 3.54% are Catholic.

Internet domain: .me

Mains voltage: ~230 V, 50 Hz

Country dialing code: +382

Country barcode: 389

Climate

Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by dry and hot summers and cool winters with heavy rainfall. Despite the fact that the country's territory is small, 4 climatic regions can be distinguished here: coast, rocky plateau, plain and highlands.

A narrow strip, 2 - 10 km wide, along the coast of Montenegro, bears the most pronounced features of the Mediterranean climate. Summer there is hot (average daily temperature in July is 28..30 C), and there is little precipitation (25 - 50 mm per month). The rainy period lasts from November to January, during which time 170 - 260 mm falls per month; in the north of the coast 1.5 times more precipitation falls than in the south. Average monthly temperature at night in January it does not fall below 4..5 C, and during the day 11..13 C. Negative temperatures are not observed every year. The swimming season lasts 5 months from the end of May to October, the water temperature is 20..25 C.

A rocky plateau separates the coast from the interior of the country. It receives the most rainfall in Europe, as its southwestern slopes trap moist air coming from the sea. Thus, in the village of Krivosie, located above the Bay of Kotor, 480 mm of precipitation per day was recorded. In the town of Crkvice, the maximum annual rainfall fell - 5155 mm, and in the cultural capital of the country, Cetinje, located on a plateau near Mount Lovcen - the maximum average annual rainfall (3927 mm/year). Just like on the coast, in summer there is noticeably less precipitation (60 - 80 mm in July), and the rainiest month is November (500 - 700 mm).

The difference in altitude between the coast and the plateau is on average 1000 m, and the height of some peaks reaches 1700 m. Therefore, in the summer it is cooler here than on the coast; the average daily temperature in July varies from 23 to 27 C depending on the altitude. In winter, the average temperature at night is -3..-5 C, and during the day 5..8 C. Snow usually falls in December and persists until mid-March.

The plain is protected by a rocky plateau from the direct influence of the Adriatic Sea, so in summer it is hotter than on the coast (average daytime temperature in July 30..32oC), and in winter it is cooler: on average 0..3oC at night and 9..11oC during the day. Precipitation occurs mainly in autumn and winter. In July, 30 - 60 mm of precipitation falls, and in November 250 - 300 mm.

The climate of the highlands has subalpine features. In winter, the average temperature at night is -6..-9 C, and during the day 0..3oC, but it decreases with altitude. Snow usually falls at the end of November and persists until the end of March. Precipitation falls evenly throughout the year, with a maximum in November (can fall from 100 to 300 mm per month depending on the orientation of the slope). Summer is cool, the average temperature during the day is 19..23 C (high in the mountains it can be colder!), and at night 8..10 C.

Best time to visit:

For beach holiday July and August are the best months - the hottest, driest and sunny months. In September, when the sea is still warm and the main wave of tourists has already subsided, you can also have a great holiday at sea. Diving, windsurfing, paragliding and other sports, as well as sightseeing can be practiced practically all year round, except November-December. You can safely go on a trip to mountainous regions from April to October. Ski season lasts from December to March.

Geography

Montenegro - small country, located in the southwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula on the Adriatic coast. Its area is only 13.8 thousand km2. However, 4 different natural and climatic regions can be distinguished on the territory of the country: coastal, plateau, highland and flat, leading to Lake Skadar.

In the west, Montenegro borders with Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the coast with Croatia, in the north and northeast with Serbia, and in the east with Albania. From the south it is limited by the Adriatic Sea, the length coastline is about 300 km. The length of the beaches is 73 km, of which 56 km are sandy beaches.

The coast of Montenegro, only 2-10 km wide, is sandwiched between the sea and a rocky plateau that falls steeply towards it. Montenegro is home to one of the best harbors in Europe - the Bay of Kotor (protrudes into the coast for more than 20 km), consisting of several spacious bays connected by narrow canals. For a long time there was a belief that the bay was a fjord, but now it is believed that the Bay of Kotor is the remains of a river canyon that once existed here. Strong tectonic and karst processes led to its gradual destruction.

A karst plateau rises above the coast; the terrain here is harsh, but beautiful in its own way. The rocks dry out quickly: even the heaviest annual rainfalls cannot significantly moisten the soil, so there are few plants and animals here. Rare areas of fertile land are found only on small plains and crater-shaped depressions. The Lovcen National Park is located here.

The basin of Lake Skadar, the fertile plain of the Zeta River, the Bjelopavlica plain and the Nikšić field make up a flat region with an elevation difference of 350 m. The bulk of the population of Montenegro lives in the flat region. Here are the two largest cities of the country - Podgorica and Niksic, as well as the Skadar Lake national park.

In the north of the country, northeast of the Piva, Komarnica and Moraca rivers, there is a highland region. In the highlands, 4 large mountain ranges can be distinguished: Visitor, Durmitor and Komovi (they form the Dinaric Highlands) and Prokletiye (Cursed Mountains). The height of the peaks reaches more than 2000 m above sea level. The highest point of Montenegro - Mount Bobotov Kuk (2522 m) is located in the Durmitor massif.

In the highlands there are pastures and forests, numerous mountain lakes. The rivers Piva, Tara, Moraca and their tributaries have carved narrow canyons with steep banks in the rocks. The Tara River canyon is the largest in Europe and the second in the world, its depth reaches 1300 m. There are also two national parks in this region - Biogradska Gora and Durmitor.

Flora and fauna

Vegetable world

The flora of Montenegro is very rich, despite the harsh conditions in mountainous areas, occupying most of the country. Here, on just 0.14% of Europe's territory, 2,833 plant species grow, accounting for almost a quarter of the species of European flora. On the coast you can find olive and fruit groves, cypress trees, palm trees and grapes. However most of The coastal cliffs are covered with maquis - dense thickets of evergreen shrubs characteristic of the Mediterranean.

Higher in the mountains there are oak and coniferous forests. The Bjelasica mountain range, where the Biogradska Gora National Park is located, is covered with mixed forest. There are 86 tree species here, including spruce, fir, beech, elm, oak, maple and even rowan. Alpine edelweiss, which has become rare, as well as mountain cornflowers and violets grow in the mountains; such vegetation is typical for the belt of alpine meadows.

In the area of ​​another national park"Skadar Lake" area is completely different. The main part of its coast is marshy, overgrown with reeds, and the surface of the lake is covered with a carpet of yellow and white water lilies. Many types of vegetation are endemic, i.e. found only in this area.

Animal world

The fauna of Montenegro is also rich. Predators in mountainous areas include wolves, bears, and foxes. Their prey includes deer, fallow deer, chamois, wild goats, hares and gophers. There are wild boars in the valleys. The Adriatic Sea is home to several hundred species of fish, including sea bass, mullet, red mullet, as well as shrimp, lobster, and octopus.

The rivers are rich in trout, perch, carp, catfish, carp and pike. Lake Skadar is home to 50 species of fish; the local population hunts mainly for bleak and carp. In addition, Lake Skadar is a permanent or temporary habitat for 270 bird species. Here you can see colonies of pelicans, cormorants, herons and black ibises. The lake attracts bird watchers from all over the world.

Attractions

On the territory of Montenegro, many historical and cultural monuments, and most of them, despite the numerous wars that have swept through this land, are in excellent condition. Hundreds of medieval monasteries and ancient cities, dozens of balneological resorts, unique natural complexes of the southern Balkans, tens of kilometers of beaches of the Montenegrin Riviera, good-natured and friendly people - this is far from full list the merits of this country.

Even during the unified Yugoslavia, Montenegro was the main tourist area of ​​the country. Thanks to the varied terrain, clean mountain rivers, warm sea(considered, by the way, the cleanest in Europe), a luxurious coastline (length is 290 km, beaches - 73 km, 56 km of which are sandy, which is quite rare for this region), excellent climate and the status of a European ecological park, this tiny the country is one of the recognized centers of tourism in Europe.

Banks and currency

The monetary unit is the euro (coins 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 euro cents, 1 and 2 euros; banknotes 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 euros).

The National Bank of Montenegro is open from Monday to Friday (10:30-14:00). Commercial banks are open from 08:00 to 19:00, on Saturdays - from 08:00 to 13:00, Sunday - closed. On weekends you can use exchange offices. There are many ATMs in Montenegro, through which you can make transactions with foreign currency. ATMs are installed in banks, airports and some hotels. Some shops and hotels accept payment using credit cards. In the bank you can always find several employees who speak English or Russian.

Useful information for tourists

Montenegrins are extremely tolerant of manifestations of interethnic differences, even the issue of interethnic conflicts in the Balkans. But it is not recommended to talk about politics or the collapse of the SFRY.

The crime rate is low. The police strictly suppress any manifestations of deception of foreign tourists, but at the everyday level there are frequent cases of petty fraud or allegedly suddenly appearing language barrier Therefore, you should be especially careful when discussing financial issues and never give money in advance before the service is performed.

Tips in restaurants usually amount to 5% of the bill.

For drinking, it is better to use mineral or bottled water.

The price level in the country is quite low, but varies markedly depending on location. In coastal areas everything is about 25% more expensive.

Montenegro is located in southeastern Europe, on the Adriatic coast of the Balkan Peninsula. The name of the state comes from the toponym Black Mountain. The total area of ​​the country is 13.8 thousand square meters. km. The capital of Montenegro is the city of Podgorica (formerly Titograd).

Montenegro is washed from the south by the Adriatic Sea. The state borders on Croatia in the west, Bosnia and Herzegovina in the northwest, Serbia in the northeast, Kosovo in the east, and Albania in the southeast.

Total length land borders the state is 614 km. With the Republic of Croatia - 14 km, with Bosnia and Herzegovina - 225 km, with the Republic of Serbia and Kosovo - 203 km, with the Republic of Albania - 172 km.

Until June 2006, Montenegro was part of the confederal State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. The country occupied 13.5% of its total area. Montenegro gained independence on June 3, 2006.

The territory of the country conventionally consists of three parts: the coast of the Adriatic Sea, the relatively flat central part of the country, and mountain systems east of the country. In the central part of the country there are two of its most major cities– Podgorica and Nikisic.

The continental coastline of Montenegro stretches for almost 300 km. The state consists of 14 sea ​​islands. The length of the coastline of these islands is 15.6 km. In the north-west of Montenegro there is a large bay called Boka Kotorska, which cuts into the land at 29.6 km. Its water surface area is 87.3 km².

The total length of the beaches of Montenegro is 73 km, the transparency of sea water in some places exceeds 35 m.

There are many rivers on the territory of Montenegro. About 52.2% of the country's rivers belong to the Black Sea basin, the remaining 47.8% belong to the Adriatic Sea basin. The longest of them are: Tara (144 km), Lim (123 km), Ceotina (100 km), Moraca (99 km), Zeta (65 km) and Boyana (30 km).

Three Montenegrin rivers (Moraca, Zeta and Piva) flow throughout the entire length of the country. The Boyana River used to be the only navigable river in the country. It is currently no longer navigable.

Almost all the country's rivers are mountainous; they form fairly deep canyons. The Tara River Canyon is considered the deepest in Europe and the second deepest in the world. Its depth is about 1200 meters.

The famous Skadar Lake is the largest lake not only in the country, but also in the entire Balkan Peninsula. The total area of ​​its water surface is 369.7 km². Two thirds of the territory of this lake belongs to Montenegro, and one third belongs to Albania.

The second largest lake in Montenegro is Lake Shasskoe, with an area of ​​3.64 km². The lake is located near Ulcinj. There are also 29 small mountain lakes of glacial origin in the country. Their total area is 3.89 km².

The territory of Montenegro is mountainous. The highest point of the country is Mount Bobotov-Kuk (Durmitor mountain range). Its height is 2522 m. The areas adjacent to the Adriatic coast are located in a zone of narrow coastal plains, which are interrupted by mountain spurs and rocky headlands.

The explorer of the World Ocean Jacques-Yves Cousteau considered the shore of the Adriatic Sea, washing the coast of Montenegro, one of the cleanest in Europe. Along with ordinary tourists This mountainous country is also preferred by such celebrities as Bill Gates, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Today, Montenegro is a unique reserve, a place where civilization harmoniously coexists with untouched nature, where the sea sparkles, medieval buildings are visible among the green mountains and flowers are everywhere!

Geographical location of Montenegro

Montenegro is located in the central Mediterranean, in the southwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula. It borders Croatia to the north, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the northwest, Serbia to the northeast, and Albania to the southeast. The length of the coastline is 293 km. The length of the beaches is 73 km. The part of the Adriatic Sea between Montenegro and Southern Italy is the widest (200 km) and deepest (1330 m). Area: 13812 sq. km (0.14% of the territory of all Europe).

Capital

Podgorica (173 thousand people) is the administrative center of the Republic of Montenegro. Cetinje - ancient capital, historical and cultural center.

Climate in Montenegro

The diversity of relief greatly influences the climate. Gigantic Mountain chain closes the coast from northern winds. Therefore, the Mediterranean climate predominates at sea, and continental in the mountains. The average annual air temperature in Montenegro is +17°C, and in July and August +29°C. The swimming season in Montenegro begins in April and lasts until November. The sea temperature for seven months ranges from +20 to +26°C.

Population

620 thousand people (as of spring 2011). 62% - Montenegrins, 13% - Bosnians, 9% - Serbs, 7% - Albanians

State structure

Republic of Montenegro

Language in Montenegro

Serbian (alphabet - Cyrillic and Latin). All Montenegrins understand Russian perfectly.

Religion in Montenegro

Montenegrins and Serbs profess Orthodoxy, national minorities profess Catholicism and Islam.

Customs

You can import and export an unlimited amount of foreign currency into the country, but it is advisable to declare large amounts at the entrance. It should be noted that border and customs procedures are simplified as much as possible. You can import and export duty-free 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, a liter of strong alcoholic drinks and 2 liters of wine. The export of objects and things of historical and artistic value is prohibited - without special permission.

Car rent

To rent a car in Montenegro, you must be at least 21 years old, have at least two years of driving experience (plus, of course, an international driving license), and also leave a deposit of 150-300 euros. Speed ​​- 40 km/h - in populated areas, 70 km/h - on the highway, 120 km/h - on the autobahn.

Money in Montenegro

Euro. 1 euro = 100 cents.

Banking work

On weekdays from 08:00 - 19:00, on Saturday from 08:00 - 15:00

Telephone code of Serbia and Montenegro

Required telephone numbers

Police - 92, fire department - 93, ambulance -94, road assistance - 987. Some city codes: Herceg Novi and Igalo - 88, Budva, Becici, Petrovac, Milocer and Sveti Stefan - 86, Bar, Sutomore, Ulcinj , Ada-Bojana - 85, Tivat - 82

mobile connection

It works in the GSM standard, so you can use roaming. But it is more convenient and profitable to buy a card from one of the local operators - Pro Monte or Monet. There is no noticeable difference between them; express payment cards for replenishing your account are sold in any mini-market.

ElectricityNational Parks

Durmitor (39,000 ha), Lovcen (6,400 ha), Biogradska Gora (5,400 ha). World natural and cultural heritage are under the protection of UNESCO.

Beach

The beaches in Montenegro are some of the best in the world, and thanks to their diversity, you can choose a holiday by the sea to suit every taste. There are areas with fine sand (Ulcinj Riviera, Budva Riviera), while most of them (Žanjic, Nivic, Sutomore) have very small pebbles, the size of buckwheat. Artificial beaches (concrete platform) are located in Tivat, Herceg Novi, Bar, Igalo. There are very crowded beaches, and there are secluded ones, there are beaches for “textile workers” and for nudists, there are paid and free ones. Almost all the beaches are located in secluded bays, sheltered from the wind and waves, between steep cliffs. The length of the sea coast of Montenegro is 299 km, and the length of the beaches is 73 km. Renting umbrellas and sun loungers will cost 5-7 EUR per day. Guests of 4-5 star hotels, as a rule, use umbrellas and sunbeds for free. Most big beach(“Velika Plaža”) is located in Ulcinj, its length is 13 km.

Cuisine of Montenegro

Local kitchen is divided into 3 types - purely local, fish and Italian. The portions are huge. Despite the proximity of the Adriatic Sea, fish cuisine in Montenegro is very expensive. Local cuisine is a "fairy tale" of pork or beef. The cost of lunch with wine for 2 persons varies from 12 to 20 euros. If this a fish dish, then the cost of lunch will be from 20 to 30 euros. In many Montenegrin restaurants, after the third visit to the restaurant, guests for the fourth time can be fed at the expense of the establishment.

The shops

Department stores and supermarkets are open daily from 06:00 to 21:00. Other shops from 09:00 to 21:00. IN tourist centers Almost all shops are open until 23:00, and some are open on Sunday. There is a lot of tension with souvenirs in the country, the whole selection is National costumes and hats (quite expensive and purely decorative), T-shirts with a map of the country and the inscription Montenegro, bottles, plates and various handmade wooden utensils, lace, musical instruments (harps, pipes), icons (reproductions) - mainly at monasteries, painting and sculpture.

Safety

The crime rate in Montenegro is relatively low. Petty thefts from cars parked in unguarded parking lots occur. The attitude towards foreigners is very friendly. You can safely be in tourist areas in the evening. A large number of Albanians live in the mountainous and border areas. Visiting such places, especially where tourism is poorly developed, is not recommended without local accompaniment. It is necessary to take basic precautions and listen to the recommendations of your guide.

Transport

All cities and large settlements are connected by bus service. During the tourist season, bus stations operate 24 hours a day. Buses depart regularly from Podgorica to Belgrade. Herceg Novi and other cities on the coast have bus connections to Croatia. From Ulcinj a bus departs once a day to the city of Shkoder in Albania. Intracity bus service in Montenegro there is almost nowhere, with the exception of Podgorica. Short distances allow you to walk or take a cheap taxi.

Souvenirs and shopping

As souvenirs, you can buy national costumes and hats (quite expensive and purely decorative), T-shirts with a map of the country and the inscription Montenegro, bottles, plates, various handmade wooden utensils, lace, musical instruments (harp, pipes), reproductions of famous icons (in mainly in monasteries), painting and sculpture.

Attractions

It is in Montenegro that the most big lake in the Balkans - Skadar. Its 40 islands give it a special charm; some of them have perfectly preserved medieval fortresses and monasteries. By the way, Lake Skadar is one of the few where you can watch pelicans in their natural habitat.

The Cetinje Monastery houses two of the most important Orthodox shrines - a piece of the Honest Life-Giving Cross of the Lord, on which Jesus Christ was crucified, and the right hand of the prophet John the Baptist.

Economic-geographical location

Montenegro - small state southeastern Europe, located on the Adriatic coast of the Balkan Peninsula. Montenegro also includes 14 islands.

Montenegro borders on:

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina (northwest),
  • Croatia (west),
  • Serbia (northeast),
  • Republic of Kosovo (east),
  • Albania (southeast).

The Adriatic Sea washes Montenegro from the southwest.

The total territory of the country is 13,812 thousand square meters. km. The capital of Montenegro is Podgorica.

On the territory of the country there are: flat central areas, mountain ranges eastern part, coast of the Adriatic Sea.

In the north-west of Montenegro there is the Bay of Kotor, in which largest ports And famous beaches Montenegro. The main beaches are located on the Budva Riviera.

The highland area is located northeast of the Komarnica, Piva, and Moraca rivers. In the highlands, the Dinaric Highlands are distinguished, formed by the mountain ranges Durmitor, Visitor, Komov, Belasitsa, Sinyavina and Prokletie, or the Cursed Mountains. In the south are the karst mountains of Orien, Rumia, and Lovcen.

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Mountain peaks (about 70) have a height of more than 2000 m. Highest point– peak Bobotov Kuk (2522 m) in the Durmitor massif.

A karst plateau rises above the Adriatic coast. Patches of fertile land occur on isolated small plains and in crater-shaped craters.

The plain occupies less than 20% of the country's territory. The flat region (Montenegrin Plain) with a height difference of 350 m consists of: the fertile plain of the Zeta River, the Belopavlica Plain, the Skadar Lake basin, and the Niksic field.

Note 1

Ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy enterprises play an important role in the industry of Montenegro. The woodworking, engineering, tobacco and food industries are developed. Agriculture is dominated by grain crops, viticulture, subtropical fruit growing, and mountain pasture livestock raising.

Climatic conditions

Climatic conditions in different regions of the country differ significantly:

  • the central foothill regions of the country - the climate is temperate continental, a lot of rainfall, mild winters and hot summers;
  • Adriatic coast - Mediterranean climate, characterized by short-term rains (winter and spring), in summer there is almost no precipitation; winters are mild and summers are moderately hot;
  • in the mountain ranges there is a subalpine climate, a harsh mountain climate, characterized by cold winters and moderately warm summers.

The Adriatic coast is dominated by dry and hot summers with rainy and mild winters. average temperature in summer it is 25-26°C. In winter, the temperature does not drop below 7°C (Ulcinj) and 9°C (Herceg-Novia). Total hours of sunshine per year - 2700. In summer, the sea water temperature is 25-28°C.

In the central lowlands, temperatures drop to 5°C in winter and reach 27°C in summer.

Mountain regions are characterized by relatively cold winters (from −10 to +5°C) and moderately warm summers (19-25°C).

Note 2

A large number of precipitation is due to the presence of mountainous terrain and the proximity of the sea. The average annual precipitation, depending on the region, is from 500 to 1500 mm. In some parts, annual precipitation can reach 3000 mm. In the mountains, the height of the snow cover is 1-3 m; snow lies here for up to 5 months a year.

Natural resources

Water resources. The country's rivers belong to the Danube and Adriatic Sea basins. The largest and most significant rivers include the following rivers: Tara, Lim, Cheotina, Moraca, Zeta, Boyana. Most rivers are of mountain origin, flowing in winding and deep canyons. Largest freshwater lake Skadar (369.7 sq. km.) located in a karst depression and Lake Shasskoe are the most large lakes countries. Most mountain lakes are of glacial origin.

Minerals. The country is not rich in mineral resources. Only hard coal is present in sufficient quantities as a strategic energy source. The country has developed deposits of aluminum ore, zinc (Suplya Stena, Brskovo, Mojkovac), lead, and bauxite (Niksic). Oil and natural gas are imported from other countries.

Natural and recreational resources. The clearest Adriatic Sea, mountain landscapes, and mild climate make the area attractive for recreation and recreation. Mountain ranges are attractive for hiking, mountaineering and ski slopes (in winter time). The water in the lakes is crystal clear. The lake is often called “mountain eyes” for its transparent greenish-blue color. Availability national parks and nature reserves provides favorable conditions for eco-tourism. On the Adriatic coast holiday season lasts from April to October.

Flora and fauna

Forests occupy more than 40% of the country's territory. The forests are mostly coniferous and mixed.

On the Adriatic coast there are numerous palm trees, various cacti (some up to 5 meters high), oleanders and magnolia.

Bananas grow in Herceg Novi. Fruit plants include pomegranates, kiwis, peaches, grapes, tangerines and oranges.

In the high mountain meadows there are many flowering, rare plants, in particular edelweiss.

Lake Skadar is famous for its water lilies, lilies and lotuses.

Large animals live in Montenegro: deer, elk, bears, fallow deer, wild boars, wolves, lynxes. There are martens and turtles.

The coast is rich in various species of fish, many trout and carp. Many octopuses and squids live here. In the Bay of Kotor, mussels and oysters are grown.

The avifauna is presented various types birds: pelicans, cormorants, herons, swans, black ibises. You can meet the golden eagle.

Almost 10% of the territory of Montenegro is occupied by nature reserves and national parks:

  • Durmitor. UNESCO heritage. Huge species diversity of flora and fauna. On the territory of the park there are natural monuments: Tara River Canyon, Black Lake, Ice Cave, invisible canyon.
  • Biogradska mountain. Primary forests, including unique ecosystems, great amount variety of plants.
  • Lovcen. The park is represented by a variety of relief forms.
  • Skadar Lake. The largest wading bird reserve in Europe. There are many ancient fortresses and monasteries in the park.

Current Montenegro is one of the most widespread tourist places among European countries. The natural luxury of this delightful country, comfortable climate, many historical and architectural treasures and low prices attract more and more tourists to the country of black mountains and white beaches.

Montenegro is famous for its natural treasures, including the stunning azure-blue lakes of Sasi and Skadar, a national park containing the famous Black Lake and the colorful canyons of the Tara and Morač rivers,

Every corner of Montenegro is interesting in its own way, and all exotic places defy description, so this delightful country is a must-see. The country most likely acquired its name (Black Mountain) thanks to the impenetrable black forests, which in the Middle Ages covered Mount Lovcen and the rest of the alpine hills of ancient Montenegro.

Tourist country

Montenegro today is a very popular Eastern European country in terms of tourism. Mountain landscapes, the clearest Adriatic Sea, optimal temperature - that’s why holidays here are so popular. Even when it is cloudy in most resorts, the weather in Montenegro always pleases vacationers with its mild Mediterranean climate. In summer, the air warms up to +40 °C, and the water temperature on the coast of Montenegro reaches +25 °C. What else do you need to have a great time? Meanwhile, winter in the mountains is snowy and moderately cold, which favors the development of ski tourism.

The number of those who dream of spending their holidays in Montenegro, relaxing or improving their health is constantly growing; many people from all over Europe even dream of purchasing real estate here for this purpose - because, given the wonderful natural conditions, housing prices here are lower than in most other countries.

Geographical location

Montenegro is located in the south of Europe, on the southwestern side of the Balkans. Its southern border is with Albania, in the west with Bosnia and Herzegovina, and on the northern side its neighbors are Serbia and Croatia. The area of ​​Montenegro is geographically divided into three regions: mountains in the northeastern part of the country, the shore of the Adriatic Sea, as well as the flat basin of Lake Skadar and the valley landscape around it. The length of the coast reaches 293.5 km. The state owns 14 sea islands.

In the north-west there is a large inlet - Boka Kotorska. The main beaches are located in Montenegro - a colorful country that is bathed in the waters of the Adriatic. The coastal line occupies approximately a third of the state's border. Rocky Mountains, colorful architecture and generous nature - this is what Montenegro is famous for today. Mountain tourism no less fascinating than relaxing on the seashores. National Park Durmitor reveals to tourists the delightful colors of the Black Mountains. The path to them is more convenient and interesting through the town of Pluzine. On the way you can see the Piva artificial reservoir, with a natural emerald hue. You can go through tunnels carved into the rocks; they contain winding roads in the form of serpentines. Here you can find stunning views of the Black Lake, the canyon of the Tara River, and the Dzhurzhevich Bridge between two mountain shores.

The country is characterized by cozy towns with small houses and huge natural expanses. The most famous cities among travelers are Podgorica, Kotor, Budva, Perast, Petrovets, Cetinje.

Capital

The city of Podgorica is the largest locality Montenegro, which is the center of the economy and industry of the state. Tourists in the city are attracted by the narrow streets and unique ancient buildings of the ancient districts of Stara Varosha and Drach. The most fascinating places to visit are: St. George's Church, Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, Natural History Museum, National Theater, Njegusa Palace and Art Gallery. Among the modern structures is the Millennium Bridge, stretching across the Morač River. Not far from Podgorica you can see the ruins of the ancient fortress Medun, which existed in the 3rd century BC. e.

Population

It has about 627,000 inhabitants. The diversity of the population is distributed according to ethnic composition as follows:

  • Montenegrins - 43%;
  • Serbs - 32%;
  • Bosnians - 8%;
  • Albanians - 5%;
  • other nationalities: Croats, Russians, gypsies.

Official language in the country - Montenegrin, which belongs to the Slavic languages, and therefore is very close to the Russian and Ukrainian languages. The most popular foreign languages ​​are German and English.

Historical and cultural capital The city of Tsetne, located in a colorful valley at the foot of the Lovcen mountain, is rightfully considered. A complex of historical, cultural and architectural attractions create a true museum under open air. Among the most visited places by tourists, the following stand out: the Bilyard Palace, Royal Palace Nicholas I, Vlaška Church, art, ethnographic and many different museums. You should definitely get to the National Park and see the royal family estate of the Petrovichs in the picturesque village of Njegusi on the top of Mount Lovcen. Here you can also visit the Mausoleum of Peter II Njegos.

The total area of ​​Montenegro is 13,812 km².

The largest resorts: Budva, Becici, Herceg, Petrovac, Novi, Bar. Airports: Podgorica and Tivat. Highest place Montenegro: peak Bobotov Kuk in the Durmitor mountain range - 2522 m. Here is Lake Skadar - the deepest on the Balkan Peninsula, its depths reach up to 530 km. Here is the deepest European canyon along the Tara River, with a depth of up to 1300 m. Thanks to the favorable geography of Montenegro on the coast, the climate is subtropical: summers are long, hot and dry, the air warms up to +28-32 ˚С, sea water - up to +22-26 ˚С, and a short mild winter with temperatures up to +8 +10 ˚С. The beach season lasts six months a year, because Montenegro is second only to Cyprus in terms of the number of sunny days per year. In mountainous areas the climate is temperate continental, winters are snowy and long, which is favorable for the development ski holiday.

Kitchen

A feature of all Montenegrin cuisine is the high ecological purity of the products used. The land in Montenegro is so fertile that additional artificial fertilizers are not used here at all, and the local population has not even heard of GMOs. Natural food, clean ecology, Mountain air And sea ​​water- everything is conducive to improving health local population It’s no wonder that life expectancy is high here. Typical Slavic cuisine with Mediterranean elements - a variety of meat dishes, seafood, fruits, vegetables. Don't forget to try the local wines “Vranac” and “Krstac”, as well as grape vodka - vine. Another distinctive feature of Montenegrin cuisine is large portions both in bars and restaurants, which cannot but please foreign guests of the country.

First of all, in Montenegro, tourists buy local handicrafts: jewelry, haberdashery, honey, olive oil, wine. Shops are open daily, from morning until late evening. Both supermarkets and small shops are open every day from 6:00 to 20:00, and in tourist centers - until 23:00. You can also find shops everywhere that are open 24 hours a day. At local markets, purchases can be made in the first half of the day.

Holidays and leisure

Montenegro has many holidays a year, both state and religious: on January 1 and 2, the population of Montenegro celebrates New Year, January 6 and 7 - Christmas, April 27 - Statehood Day in Montenegro, people also celebrate Christian Easter in the spring with the entire Orthodox world, May 1 and 2 - Spring and Labor Day, May 9 - Victory Day, June 4 - Partisan Day, June 13 is Uprising Day, November 29 and 30 are Republic Days. If the celebration falls on a weekend, then the weekdays that follow are also considered weekends.

Political system of the country

According to the country's Constitution, adopted in 2007, Montenegro is a free democratic state. The President of Montenegro is elected for a five-year term by general secret ballot. Since 2003, the state has been led by Filip Vujanovic. During the reign of the current president, the independence of Montenegro was proclaimed in May 2006. The residence of the President of Montenegro is located in Cetinje.

Currency regulation

What is the currency in Montenegro? The monetary currency in Montenegro is the euro. There are no special restrictions on import and export. Tourists are allowed to import and export any amount of foreign currency that was declared upon entering the country; without a declaration, the export of cash currency from the country is allowed no more than 500 euros. When exporting large amounts, they must be declared. In this case, it is necessary to present a declaration stating that the indicated amount of currency was previously imported into the Montenegro area. The State National Bank operates only on weekdays. Commercial banks accept clients on Thursdays and Fridays. On weekends, only currency exchange offices are open. It is better to use plastic cards, then the question of which currency is best to pay in Montenegro and where to change it will not arise.

Hotels

Over the past decades, a huge current has flowed into the economy of Montenegro - tourism, bringing significant profits to the state. Excellent ecological situation and comfortable spot Its location attracts more and more wealthy Europeans here. Recently, many comfortable hotels, inns, private villas and mini-hotels have been built in Montenegro, and money has been invested in the development of resort infrastructure. Many hotels have undergone renovations. Accommodation in private villas is very common. Typically, this is a 3-5-storey building with standard rooms and apartments, equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay. Almost all of them provide tourists with breakfast. All private villas are located at a distance of 900 to 200 m from hotels in private villas: check-in to rooms after 12:00, check-out before 11:00. Population composition by ethnicity: Montenegrins (43%) and Serbs (32%), other nationalities - Bosnians, Albanians, Croats, Russians, Gypsies. The official language in the country is Montenegrin.

Religion in Montenegro

The majority of the Montenegrin population professes the Orthodox Christian faith (74%), with a minority of Islam (18%) and Catholicism (4%). The most popular attraction of the state is the Ostrog Monastery. It is located 15 km from Danilovgrad in a delightful natural place. This monastery is a famous Orthodox shrine in the world; hundreds of thousands of pilgrims of various faiths come to it every year to touch the miraculous power of the relics of St. Basil of Ostrog. The top of the monastery is carved into the rock at an altitude of 900 m and looks amazing.

The Church of the Resurrection of Christ in Montenegro is one of the most stunning Orthodox churches in the world. There is a special attitude towards religion in Montenegro. In the nineties of the 20th century, construction of the cathedral began in Podgorica. It was a grandiose project in its scale and beauty, the most majestic in the Balkans Orthodox church. The construction of the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ began in 1993 by Metropolitan Amfilohije of Montenegro and Primorye. The cathedral can be visited by five thousand parishioners at the same time. The largest bell was made in Voronezh at the Anisimov plant and weighs 10 tons. Together, all 14 bells of the temple weigh close to 20 tons. The temple is still being painted and completed today.

Nature

The clearest sea of ​​the Adriatic, captivating mountain ranges, a coast with many inlets, protected from strong winds and storms, excellent beaches, sun, magnificent nature - this is all Montenegro. Its description can be continued endlessly, but it is better to see everything with your own eyes.

In the early 90s, Montenegro was called a country of clean, untouched and protected nature. This is a land of sharp contrasts, located in a small area, Montenegro also has a sea with great beaches, and mountains covered with snow all year round, creating conditions for ski holidays. The beaches of Montenegro stretch along Adriatic coast. 173 beaches with a total length of 73 km occupy a quarter of the entire 293 km coastline. A tourist can visit a beach with different preferences - with fine or coarse sand, pebbly or rocky, in calm creeks or on capes protruding into the sea, there are beaches with modern amenities or wild ones with virgin nature. The water in the sea is dark blue, its transparency is amazing - 40-55 meters, salinity ranges from 28% in the Boka Kotorska inlet, and up to 38% in the south near Ulcinj. There are nudist beaches, and there is even a nudist village. At the level of mountain cliffs, the climate is typical subalpine - with cold snowy winters and moderate summers. In the northern mountains of Montenegro, snow usually lies for many months, and sometimes even throughout the year.

Transport and communications

What kind of transport is developed in the country? Air transport. Montenegro has two airports of international importance - in the cities of Tivat and Podgorica. National cannot yet compete with the largest carriers, but its planes fly to Europe and neighboring countries Balkan countries. Regular flights here are also operated by the Russian Aeroflot and the Serbian airline JAT.

There is also a railway here that connects the following cities: Subotica - Novi - Sad - Belgrade - Bar. Railway laid from the port through Podgorica to Belgrade, there is also a direction Podgorica - Niksic. Water transport. Port - city of Bar. There is a permanent ferry service to Italy (Bar - Bari route). Seaports: Kotor and Perast. Maritime transport connects everything beach resorts on the coast.

Between all cities there are bus routes. The roads are quite good, for a mountainous country, and traffic is on the right.

Main highways: Adriatic Highway; routes from the coast through Podgorica to Sarajevo and Belgrade. In the country, the bus is the most common form of transportation, and in some places it is the only one. Stops on request along the way are allowed. Advice for tourists: it is better to buy a ticket at any kiosk, because a ticket purchased on the bus will be about 2 times more expensive.

Operators mobile communications in Montenegro are the companies ProMonte and Monet.

Safety

For safety reasons, video and photography can only be done where there is no special sign - a crossed out camera. It is not allowed to photograph transport and energy facilities, port facilities and military facilities. By the way, in Montenegro today the crime rate is very low, so both residents and tourists of this country can feel safe and calmly enjoy the picturesque beauty of this unique region.