Lesendro is the cornerstone of Montenegrin history on Lake Skadar

Lesendro Fortress, an imposing building located on a rock that was once an island on Lake Skadar, is one of the most important historical places in Montenegro.

Built in the first half of the 18th century, Lesendro was an important military fortress and a symbol of the resistance of the Montenegrin people against the Ottoman Empire.

Lesendro Fortress, Lake Skadar, Photo: Falk2, CC BY-SA 4.0

The fortress was built by the Montenegrin bishop Petar II Petrović Njegoš, but it is not known whether there was an older fortress on that site that he only strengthened and fortified. The goal was to protect the people from frequent Ottoman attacks and to ensure control over Lake Skadar, an important commercial and strategic route between the coast and the interior.

However, in 1843, the Ottomans managed to take over the fortress, which was a great blow for Montenegro. Nevertheless, the fortress was liberated in 1878 together with the nearby fortress of Žabljak Crnojević, so they were annexed to the Principality of Montenegro.

Lesendro Fortress, Lake Skadar, Photo: Adria fun

Today, the ruins of the Lesendro fortress bear witness to the stormy history and importance of this place. Although damaged by the ravages of time, the fortress still attracts visitors, researchers, and history buffs who come to feel the spirit of the past and admire the courage of their ancestors.