Ratac Abbey

Ratac Abbey is a monastery complex in ruins on a rocky point along the Adriatic coast between Sutomore and Bar in Montenegro. Stone walls and foundations are scattered across the headland overlooking the sea.

The monastery began in the 9th century and thrived for several hundred years before Turkish forces destroyed it in 1571 following years of Venetian bombardment. Its destruction marked the end of a long period of religious and economic importance in the region.

The site shows traces of different religious traditions in how it was built and used, as both Catholic and Orthodox believers worshipped here over the centuries. The ruins reveal a meeting point between Eastern and Western Christian practices.

The site can be reached by following a coastal path from either Bar or Sutomore, and both towns have places to stay and eat. The ground is rocky and exposed, so sturdy shoes and sun protection are wise.

The monastery changed its patron saint from Michael to Mary after receiving a particular icon that made it a major pilgrimage site. This transformation drew pilgrims from distant places and shaped the spiritual life of the region for centuries.