Church of St. John
The Church of St. John the Baptist is a medieval church located in the Old Town of Budva, Montenegro. It is one of the oldest churches in Budva, dating back to the 7th century. Over the centuries, the church has been altered and renovated several times, including the addition of a bell tower in the 17th century. The church was originally built as a three-nave basilica with an atrium, but was later altered and renovated over the centuries.
The interior of the church contains frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries depicting scenes from the life of Jesus and the lives of the saints. The frescoes are considered some of the finest examples of Byzantine art in Montenegro.
The church is also known for its distinctive bell tower, which was added in the 17th century. The tower is built in the Baroque style and has an octagonal shape and a dome with a lantern.
Today, the Church of St. John the Baptist is a popular tourist attraction and an important cultural monument in Montenegro. It is still used as a place of worship and hosts various religious ceremonies throughout the year.
The architecture of the church reflects the influence of Byzantine, Romanesque and Baroque styles. The interior of the church features frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries, which are considered some of the best examples of Byzantine art in Montenegro. The frescoes depict scenes from the life of Jesus and the lives of the saints, and despite the church’s long history, it is well preserved.
The church’s distinctive bell tower is built in the Baroque style, with an octagonal shape and a lantern dome. The bell tower was also built in 1867. The tower also features decorative elements such as pilasters and a clock face.
Tourists visiting the Church of St. John the Baptist can expect to see a well-preserved historical and cultural monument. The interior of the church is filled with frescoes depicting religious scenes, and visitors can appreciate the artistry and significance of these paintings.
The church holds many valuable items, such as the icon of the Holy Mother of God with Christ, known as Budvanska Bogorodica (Holy Mother of God of Budva). According to one legend, the author of this icon is believed to be St. Luke, while according to expert opinions it dates back to the 13th century. Among other valuable items, you can see the painting of St. Peter and Paul, a work of the Venetian school, icons of Greek origin and the painting of St. Luke by Anastas Bocaric.
Tourists can also climb the bell tower to enjoy the panoramic view of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. The church is open to visitors all year round and there is no entrance fee. However, visitors are asked to dress modestly and respectfully, as the church is still used as a place of worship.