The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Katedrala Svetog Tripuna) is the crown jewel of Kotor's Old Town and one of the most significant monuments in Montenegro. Consecrated in 1166 on the site of an earlier 9th-century church, this magnificent Roman Catholic cathedral is older than many of Europe's most famous cathedrals. It is dedicated to Saint Tryphon, the patron saint and protector of the city, whose relics are housed within. The building is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, though its history of resilience is visible in its design. Following a catastrophic earthquake in 1667, the original facade and one of the bell towers were destroyed and later rebuilt in the Baroque style, which is why the two towers are noticeably different. Inside, visitors can admire beautifully preserved 14th-century frescoes, an ornate stone baldachin over the main altar, and a rich treasury. The upper floor houses the Sacral Art Museum, displaying a valuable collection of paintings, relics, and precious gold and silver artifacts that testify to Kotor's wealthy past. A visit to this cathedral is not just an architectural tour but a deep dive into the spiritual and historical heart of this incredible UNESCO city.
- Pay the small entrance fee to access the upper floor, which houses the Sacral Art Museum and offers a beautiful view of the square below.
- Take a moment to notice that the two bell towers are not identical – a visible reminder of the cathedral's long history and reconstruction after earthquakes.
