Most people visit Montenegro to enjoy the Adriatic Sea beaches, to see the Bay of Kotor or fantastic national parks like Durmitor. But though probably visiting a museum is not your main goal in Montenegro, I believe it still worth doing. This is a great way to know the culture of the country and the whole Balkan region much better (also you’ll get some rest from breathtaking views).
National Museum, Cetinje
The National Museum of Montenegro, the largest museum in the country, is located in its cultural capital, Cetinje. The museum consists of 5 parts: Historical Museum, Artistic Museum, King’s Nikola Palace (the residence of the last king of Montenegro), Ethnographic Museum, and Biljarda (the former royal residence built for Prince-Bishop Petar II Petrović-Njegoš).
If you are interested in the history and culture of Montenegro, this museum is definitely worth visiting.
Roman Mosaics Museum, Risan
During a visit to the Bay of Kotor, don’t forget to visit Risan, a small town famous for the remains of a Roman villa (2nd century AD) which is now a museum. The museum consists of different findings from the ancient era – amphoras, columns, etc.
Mosaics are probably the most interesting part of the museum, including the unique mosaic of God Gypnos (which is the only known mosaic devoted to this ancient God in the world).
Maritime Museum, Kotor
Kotor Maritime Museum is located directly in the Old Town of Kotor, so it is easy to reach. Its collection is really large and includes a lot of ship models (from medieval to Yugoslavian), different weapons (from sabers to pistols and cannons), and different stuff for sailing and navigation.
Archaeological Museum, Budva
The archaeological Museum of Budva is located inside Budva Old Town. It has collections of Greek and Roman artefacts found in Budva and nearby (mosaics, column parts, coins, amphoras, ceramics). The museum collections also include Montenegrin things of 18-19th centuries used in everyday life (furniture, dishes, national costumes, etc.).
Ivo Andrić Museum, Herceg Novi
Located in the centre of Herceg Novi, the museum of Yugoslavian Nobel Prize winner, writer, and diplomat Ivo Andrić is a nice place to visit. He lived in this house with his wife for 5 years (1963 – 1968).
The museum’s collection includes various photographs and replicas of the Nobel medal and diploma.
Maritime Heritage Museum, Tivat
The Maritime Heritage Museum is located in Tivat, very close to Porto Montenegro. Two Yugoslavian submarines, Heroj P-821 and Una P-912 are the main attraction here, and you can go inside! Also, there are different ship models, cannons, etc. in the collections.