St. Thomas Church

St. Thomas Church in Bečići stands on a small rise right above Bečići Beach, shaded by pines and cypresses. The first church here dates to the 14th century and was dedicated to the Apostle Thomas; in 1910 a new church was built on the site and dedicated to St. Stefan Štiljanović, a local-born noble and saint.

• Small coastal church with direct access from the beach – ideal for a brief stop.
• Historical rededication: from St. Thomas (14th c.) to St. Stefan Štiljanović (1910).
• Evocative setting of pines and cypresses with views over the Bečići shoreline.

• A modest early-20th-century stone church on a seaside knoll
• Icons and a reliquary with a relic of St. Stefan Štiljanović
• The footpath from the beach and a shaded forecourt with sea views

From the 14th century, a church of St. Thomas stood here but fell into disrepair by the early 1900s. Local tradition ties the site to the Paštrovići lineage.

In 1910, a new church was erected and dedicated to St. Stefan Štiljanović – the last Paštrovići knez, Serbian despot and saint, born nearby. In 2007, a portion of his relics was brought here from Belgrade. Today, the church remains a focus for feasts on 17 and 19 October and attracts visitors thanks to its easy beach access.

Location: at the northern end of Bečići Beach, on a low pine-covered hill.
Getting there: on foot along the Bečići seafront or via the Budva–Bečići tunnel; by car via the Adriatic Highway to Bečići, then a short uphill walk.
Access: generally free; services may limit access.
Visiting hours: daytime; main feast days 17 and 19 October.
Visit duration: 10–20 minutes.
Best time: morning or evening for shade and softer light.
Notes: observe silence and modest dress; steps from the beach can be slippery after rain.