St. John's Church, Budva, Montenegro

St. John's Church is one of the oldest churches in the Montenegro coastal region, which was built, according to oral tradition, in the 7th century. It was a Cathedral until 1828, when the Diocese of Budva was abolished. The Cathedral was damaged in the earthquake of 1667, after which it was reconstructed on several occasions, while its high tower, which dominates the town, was erected in 1867. Next to the church, there is the former Bishop’s court complex.

The church features several objects of cultural and historical value and, among its numerous old Icons, the most notable is one of the Virgin Mary with Christ called the Madonna in Punta. It is also known as the Madonna of Budva or the Great Panagia (“the saint of all that is holy”). In 1807, it was brought from the Church of Santa Maria in Punta and is now considered to be the shrine of the Patron Saint of the town and its inhabitants, protecting them both from plague and pirate raids. In the 1970s, the original classical altar was removed from the church, and a new altar wall – a mosaic made of mural glass covering an area of 40 square metres – was created by the well-known Croatian painter, Ivo Dulcic.

References:

Budva Tourism

Religious sites in Montenegro

User Reviews

Maja Đurasović (2 years ago)
The old town of Budva has the Orthodox and Catholic churches almost next to each other. This one is Roman Catholic.The main altar fresco is very interesting and not usual for this architecture.

Idris Evans (2 years ago)
Beautiful old church dating from the 12th century, with a fantastic new (1970's) mosaic alter wall by Croatian artist Ivo Dulcic. No photography allowed inside the church and staff are there to enforce, but I have taken a picture of the postcard that I bought to show you this lovely depiction of St John.

mila pilipovic (2 years ago)
Beautiful old church, open in Sunday morning with lot of people, so wonderful view, nice environment and beautiful inside.

Vera Gordon (2 years ago)
This is a centuries old basilica with a landmark bell tower illuminated at night. The alter has a striking glass mosaic that is different from frescos commonly seen in similar churches. The church is not ornate but displays a peaceful simplicity and beauty. It is a small church which is worth visiting. The entry is free of charge.

Louise Roche (3 years ago)
Attended Holy Mass today such reverence, beauty. A holy priest with a holy people, please don't loose this wonderful gift. I was so sad to think what Ireland has thrown away. Thank you Fr.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Zvonimir Hrvoj

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