Prcanj
The small but charming coastal resort of Prcanj is renowned for its rich naval history of ocean commerce. Situated halfway between Kotor’s Old Town and Tivat, Prcanj attracts predominantly cultural tourists with an interest in history and a desire for utmost serenity.
History and Culture of Prcanj
Already the first mention in Kotor’s 13th-century archives describes Prcanj’s inhabitants as skilled sailors and great warriors. One of its former citizens, Ivo Vizin, happened to be the first Southern Slav to circumnavigate the globe in a 30-meter-long sailing boat called Splendido.
When the forces of the Ottoman Empire advanced in the Mediterranean in the 15th century, they managed to occupy neighboring Herceg Novi and Risan but failed to take Prcanj. Interestingly, it was also Prcanj’s fearless seafarers who established the Adriatic’s first postal system in 1625.
Under the guise of Venice’s postal service, it soon grew to become an indispensable hub in the Republic’s communication network, responsible for forwarding mail and pieces of information between Constantinople (today: Istanbul) and the Venetian Lagoon.
According to historical records, Prcanj operated a fleet of more than 30 robust sailing cargo ships in the 18th century. With the advent of the Industrial Revolution, however, this type of naval transport was no longer viable, setting the stage for Prcanj’s slow and gradual decline.
The decline was halted in the early 20th century when this beautiful settlement with its mild and good marine climate was rediscovered as a health resort by King Alexander I. Luckily, many of the traditional stone townhouses lined along the coastal promenade have been well-preserved.
Kotor
Kotor with all its history and charm is one of the prettiest towns in the Mediterranean and a perfect weekend getaway or longer holiday destination.
Major Attractions in Prcanj
The coastal stretch around the Prcanj Post Office is lined with numerous restaurants and cafes and is dominated by two distinctive landmarks – the churches of Saint Nicholas and the 18th-century Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The latter one is the largest religious building in the entire Bay of Kotor and well worth a visit. It is recognizable by its double-sided monumental marble staircase and its beautiful Baroque facade. It displays a rich collection of sculptures and paintings of famed Venetian artists.
Bay of Kotor
Visit the Bay of Kotor, Europe’s southernmost fjord, for the utmost Mediterranean experience, appealing year-round to tourists and residents.
Another interesting sight is the Tre Sorelle Palace, the sole Gothic piece of architecture in the Bay of Kotor outside the walled city. According to legend, three sisters fell in love with the same seafarer, with their love unreciprocated. The legend of the tre sorelle lives on in the 15th-century structure. It is just a 10-minute walk from the town center.
Prcanj is blessed by its adjacency to several major natural attractions, particularly the Our Lady of the Rocks Island and the Blue Cave which lies on the other side of the Lustica Peninsula. Taking a boat ride to one of these destinations, you are making the most of all the natural wonders that surround the uniquely attractive Prcanj.
Our Lady of the Rocks
The lovely Church of Our Lady of the Rocks is built on an islet with magnificent views of the charming coastal town of Perast and beyond.
Things to do in Prcanj
Prcanj sits in a quiet part of the bay and is thus perfectly suited for cycling (there are bike rentals and even a bike-sharing platform in town), watersports, and hiking. Choose one of the hiking trails that lead up Mount Vrmac and Gornja Lastva, an old and abandoned settlement with a beautiful church, overlooking the bay.
Bike Rental Kotor
One of the best ways to explore the Bay of Kotor at your own pace is by bike. Find out more about bike rentals in Kotor.
Restaurants in Prcanj
Prcanj caters well to tourists and has a decent selection of cafes, bars, and local taverns. There are also numerous very esteemed oceanfront restaurants along the Prcanj coastal promenade, with well-thought-out menus, serving both local Adriatic and international cuisine.
Mademoiselle Kotor
Mademoiselle Kotor in Prcanj offers excellent Mediterranean cuisine in an intimate setting with fantastic views of the Bay of Kotor.
Hotels in Prcanj
Prcanj is an up-and-coming holiday resort (but without the crowds) and offers a couple of interesting lodging options. Numerous old stone palazzi have been turned into quaint boutique hotels. The Art Hotel Galathea is a hidden gem offering the warmest of hospitality and an amazing seaside patio. The Hotel Libertas is decorated in a modern nautical theme, a great alternative.
Hotels in Prcanj
Prcanj is the perfect spot to explore the bay, these are the best hotels in Prcanj, from family-run boutique hotels to larger luxury resorts.
Events in Prcanj
The Musuljada, a Festival of Mussels, is an annual event celebrated by residents and visitors of Prcanj during the peak season in August. This is the town’s sole event, making old and young fretfully look forward to celebrating it with their friends and families. Guests are entertained by musical live performances and can indulge in the exquisite delight of fresh mussels and domestic wine.
Things to do in Kotor
Here is a list of the best things to do in Kotor, from visiting the biannual carnival celebrations to great outdoor activities.