Our Lady of the Rocks, Artificial island with Catholic church in Bay of Kotor, Montenegro.
Our Lady of the Rocks is an artificial island in the Bay of Kotor featuring a church and a museum inside. The island was built up over centuries by local residents throwing stones into the sea to create and expand this sacred place.
The story begins in 1452 when local fishermen discovered a religious icon in the sea and interpreted it as a sign to build a shrine. The church was completed in 1630 and residents continued their tradition of throwing stones into the water to reinforce the island.
The museum displays paintings by local artists and silver votive gifts that show how deeply people have venerated this place over time. Visitors can see these handcrafted offerings today and understand the spiritual importance the site holds for the community.
The island is only accessible by boat, and most visitors join tours that depart from nearby areas. It helps to wear comfortable shoes since the ground is uneven, and checking the weather before heading out is wise.
Once a year on July 22, people perform a special ritual by deliberately throwing stones into the sea to maintain the island. This act connects past with present and reveals how deeply faith runs in this region.
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