Museum of King Nikola

What is this place

The King Nikola Museum is the former royal residence of the Petrović dynasty in Cetinje, built in 1867. Since 1926, it has functioned as a museum preserving collections related to Montenegrin statehood and the royal family.

Key features

• Built in 1863–1867 for Prince Danilo’s family.
• Served as the official residence of King Nikola I for over 50 years.
• Interiors recreate 19th–early 20th century royal life.
• Library includes books from the first Cyrillic printing press in the Balkans.
• The most visited museum in Montenegro.

What to see

• Reconstructed royal interiors: offices, salons, dining rooms.
• Royal library with rare books, including the Oktoih of 1493.
• Crown jewels and artifacts from Petrović residences.

History

Construction began in 1863 and finished in 1867, originally intended for Princess Darinka, widow of Prince Danilo, and their daughter. After their departure, the family of King Nikola I moved into the palace.

From then on, it became the main royal residence of Cetinje. Interiors were decorated in historicist and art nouveau styles, while gardens were laid out in 1870 as a pine alley.

In 1926, the palace was turned into a museum, incorporating the collections of the Military and National museums. Today, it houses important relics of Montenegro’s political, military, and cultural history.

Practical information

Location: central Cetinje, near the Government House.

Getting there: walking distance from city center, bus links to Podgorica and Budva.

Access: open to the public with ticketed entry.

Visiting hours: daytime, following the schedule of the National Museum of Montenegro.

Visit duration: 1–1.5 hours.

Best time: spring and summer, when gardens are in bloom.

Notes: some exhibitions can only be accessed with a guide.