A visit that will make an everlasting impression
Gospa od Skrpjela Island (Our Lady of the Rocks) is one of two gorgeous islands in the bay of Boka Kotorska, situated in the sea across from Perast in Kotor. The other is Sveti Djordje Island (St George). The picturesque beauty of both islands will lure you to visit, and their unique stories will leave memorable impressions.
While St. George is a natural island with a homonymous twelfth-century church and a graveyard where natives of Perast were buried in the past, the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks is an artificial island that was created by sinking stones and old sailing vessels around a ridge. The islet is often called the “Floating Gallery”, and thanks to its authenticity, rarity, degree of preservation, and its historical, technical and social importance, it is recommended for inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Our Lady of the Rocks was created in the fifteenth century. More precisely, according to legend, the island of Our Lady of Rocks was made over the centuries by sailors who kept an ancient oath after finding an icon of the Madonna and Child on the rock in the sea on July 22, 1452. That day, two brothers made a promise to lay a rock at that very spot after every successful voyage. Since they were fishermen, upon returning from each successful voyage, siblings laid a rock in the bay. Over time, the islet gradually emerged from the sea, forming an island.
Interestingly, the custom of throwing rocks into the sea is alive even today. Every year at sunset on July 22nd, residents take their boats and throw rocks into the sea, expanding the surface of the island, keeping both tradition and island alive. This event where people in a procession of boats drop the stones at the site is called Fašinada.
The largest building on the island is the Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, and it has a special archaeological-ethnological museum attached. The museum preserves archaeological objects, paintings of Perast ships, parts of ship equipment and instruments. Particularly attractive embroidery showing the altar of the Church of Our Lady of the Rock is also on display, made by local Hijacinta Kunić of Perast, who even stitched in her own hair, in a 25-year-long artistic embroidery project. There is a small gift shop close to the church and a lighthouse at the western end of the islet.
The timeless allure of Our Lady of the Rocks Church extends beyond its architectural beauty; its spirituality and rich heritage have captivated visitors for generations. An embodiment of faith interwoven with regional customs, this sacred place continues to weave history, legend, and reverence within its walls.
If you are looking for an encounter with living history set in scenery of breathtaking natural beauty, Our Lady of The Rocks Church in Kotor Bay is a destination for you.
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Our Lady of the Rocks
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Church of St George Perast
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Gospa od Skrpjela - Boka Bay
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Old Town Perast
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