The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast
The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast
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Tatiana Torgonskaya
Translation: Vera Root
Photo: Tatiana Torgonskaya
02.01.2020

The Church of St. Nicholas was once destined for different purposes. It was a place for mindful religious ceremonies, but also the demonstration of power and affluence of ancient Perast.
The beautiful temple with the imposing bell tower still impresses the crowds of tourists.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The church was built in 1616, but some experts believe that another temple stood at that exact place for many centuries before that.

Later, in the 18th century, the city authorities decided to turn the parish church into a cathedral. A draft of a new grand building was made and construction work had started, but was never completed. And now St. Nicholas consists of two structures from different eras and architectural styles.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

An older church is now used for services. Its graceful facade is decorated with the delicate stone rose above the main entrance.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The interior of the church.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

In addition to the central one, the temple also has side altars made of marble.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The church sacristy is turned into a museum nowadays.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

It houses a rich collection of art and religious objects.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

Antique drawings and manuscripts.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

Religious artifacts.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

Precious icons.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

Amazing threadworks and embroideries.

The Church of St. Nicholas in PerastThe Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

One of the rooms is dedicated to luxurious vestments.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The ceremonial clothes had been made several centuries ago.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

A wooden sculpture of the Holy Mother with the baby Christ, dating from the 17th century.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The museum is located in the newer part of St. Nicholas.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The ceiling of the apse and middle cross.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

A miniature copy of the Cafedral.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The Church of St. Nicholas is the architectural dominant of Perast thanks to the 55-meter bell tower (1691). The striking tower combines the elements of Baroque, Renaissance and Romanesque style.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

Today, the visitors can enjoy the magnificent views from the top of the turret.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

Timeworn stone steps lead upstairs.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The observation deck is at the same level as the church bells.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The ancient city of Perast lays in front of your eyes.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The western part of Perast.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The northern part of the city with the Fortress of St. Cross.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

View towards the Verige Strait.

The Church of St. Nicholas in Perast

The best view of the majestic islands, Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George.

A ticket to the tower costs 1 euro, same as the museum. Entrance to the working church is free.

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Culture Kotor Perast architecture monasteries and churches