Our Lady of the Rocks

Perast, Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

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Our Lady of the Rocks is a unique, man-made islet located off the coast of Perast in the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro. According to local legend, the islet was formed starting in 1452 when two fishermen brothers discovered an icon of the Virgin Mary and Child on a rock protruding from the sea.

In gratitude for their safe return from sea voyages, local sailors began a tradition of adding stones to the spot after each successful trip, eventually building the island by slowly piling rocks and sunken ships. Atop the island stands a 17th-century Catholic church dedicated to Our Lady of the Rocks, renowned for its rich collection of religious artworks including baroque paintings by local artist Tripo Kokolja and the iconic 15th-century Madonna and Child icon.

Visitors reach the islet by boat from Perast, and the site remains a testament to the faith and dedication of the local maritime community. Each year on July 22, a festival called "Fasinada" continues the tradition of throwing stones into the sea to maintain and expand the island, celebrating the enduring spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.