The mysterious island of St. George is a historical treasure and oasis of Perast

Perast, located on the coast of the Bay of Kotor, is one of the best-preserved and best-known historical towns in Montenegro. It is a city that has a long and rich history as an important maritime center, and over the centuries it was under different administrations, the longest under Venice, which is reflected in its architecture and cultural heritage.

It is known for its baroque palaces and churches, especially the church of St. Nicholas, whose bell tower offers a wonderful view of the bay. Two small islands in front of the city stand out the most: Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George, locally known as Sveti Đorđe.

St. George – Sveti Đorđe, Photo: Dizfoto, Depositphotos

Of different origin and history, each one stands out for something. Our Lady of the Rocks is a unique artificial island that was created by piling stones according to the tradition that takes place every year during the celebration called fašinada, while on the other hand, St. George, is a natural islet covered with thick cypress trees.

Our Lady of the Rocks and Saint George – Sveti Đorđe, Photo: OlgaIlinich, Depositphotos

The islet of St. George is located right next to Our Lady of the Rocks, and due to its peaceful nature and closedness from visitors, it radiates a special mystery. The church of St. George (Sv. Đorđe) and the medieval Benedictine monastery, which dates back to the 12th century and where spiritual life was nurtured for centuries, were built on it.

The island also served as a cemetery for high-ranking people of Perast, so it got the name “island of death“. To preserve its authenticity, as well as the tranquility of those buried, it is not accessible to visitors, but only to officials of the Catholic order.

Saint George – Sveti Đorđe, Photo: galitskaya, Depositphotos

Like many places in Montenegro, this islet has a legend about the tragic love that marked its history. The story tells about the young soldier Ante, who during the French occupation, on orders, fired a cannon towards Perast and accidentally killed his beloved in the process. As a sign of regret and love, he requested that her body be buried in the island’s cemetery, after which he retired to a monastery where he spent the rest of his life guarding her grave.

Today, the couple is called the “Romeo and Juliet” of Perast, and the cypresses on the island, according to legend, symbolize their unbroken love. Two monuments were erected in their honor, with the inscription Katica and Fra Frane.

Saint George, with its ancient monastery, legends and mysterious atmosphere, will forever remain a symbol of the history and spirituality of Perast and Boka Kotor bay. Connected to this old town for centuries, the island invites visitors to admire its unique beauty forever from Perast.