Perched on a dramatic hilltop 4km inland from the modern city, Stari Bar (Old Bar) is one of Montenegro's most significant and atmospheric historical sites. Unlike the preserved and inhabited old towns on the coast, Stari Bar is a captivating open-air museum of ruins. This fortified town has a history spanning over a thousand years, with layers of Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influence etched into its stones. For centuries, it was the bustling center of the region, until an explosion at a gunpowder store during a siege in 1878 led to its gradual abandonment. Today, visitors can wander through a vast and romantic landscape of crumbling fortresses, overgrown residential houses, the remains of over ten churches, a Turkish bath, and a 16th-century clock tower. One of the most impressive structures is the remarkably preserved 17th-century aqueduct that once supplied the town with water. Exploring Stari Bar is an adventure of discovery, where you can freely climb ancient walls and walk through the skeletons of historic buildings, imagining the vibrant life that once filled these streets. It offers a hauntingly beautiful and authentic glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for history lovers and explorers.
- Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes, as the archaeological site is very large, with steep and uneven paths.
- Don't miss the impressive aqueduct just outside the main fortress complex, one of the best-preserved in the region.
