Quick Facts: Montenegro

Interesting facts about Montenegro

Name Means “Black Mountain”

The name Montenegro comes from the Venetian words monte (mountain) and negro (black), referring to the dark pine forests covering its mountains.

One of Europe’s Newest Countries

Montenegro regained its independence in 2006, making it one of Europe’s youngest sovereign nations after separating from Serbia.

Tiny but Stunning

Despite its small size, Montenegro is packed with natural beauty from Adriatic beaches and rugged mountains to glacial lakes and deep canyons.

Bay of Kotor – Europe’s Southernmost Fjord

The breathtaking Bay of Kotor is often called a fjord (though technically a ria), surrounded by medieval towns and towering mountains.

Durmitor National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Tara River Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe, ideal for rafting, hiking, and exploring alpine scenery.

Old Towns and Medieval Charm

Cities like Kotor, Budva, and Perast feature walled old towns, stone churches, and Venetian architecture dating back centuries.

Multi-Ethnic and Multilingual

While Montenegrin is the official language, Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, and Croatian are also widely spoken.

Currency Without EU Membership

Montenegro uses the euro as its official currency, even though it’s not a member of the European Union.

Smallest Orthodox Capital

Cetinje, the historical royal capital, is often called the spiritual center of Montenegro, with many important Orthodox monasteries and relics.

Warm Hospitality and Strong Coffee Culture

Montenegrins are known for their hospitality, and coffee plays a central role in social life, often enjoyed slowly at outdoor cafés.