Blue Palace

What this place is

The Blue Palace is a late Empire-style building in central Cetinje, originally built as the residence of Crown Prince Danilo in the late 19th century. Today, it serves as the official residence of the President of Montenegro.

Key features

• Built in 1894–1895 by Italian and Montenegrin craftsmen.
• Designed in late Empire style with Corinthian columns.
• Equipped with tennis courts, a swimming pool, and electric lighting by 1910.
• Served as a gymnasium and later as an exhibition venue.
• Since 2010, it has been the presidential residence.

What to see

• Blue-painted façade with symmetrical columns.
• Representative hall and ceremonial room with ornate ceiling.
• Adjacent parks and fenced palace grounds.

History

Construction began in 1894 for Crown Prince Danilo, son of King Nicholas I. Its late Empire design emphasized royal prestige.

In 1910, electric lighting was installed, and between the World Wars the building housed the Cetinje Gymnasium. Later in the 20th century, it functioned as a cultural venue for exhibitions and biennales.

A major renovation was completed in 2006 with funding from the Government of Norway. Since 2010, the Blue Palace has served as the residence of Montenegro’s president.

Practical information

Location: central Cetinje, between the two main city parks.
How to get there: short walk from anywhere in the city center, nearest bus stop – Cetinje.
Access: closed to the public, exterior view only.
Visiting hours: viewable at any time from outside.
Duration of visit: 10–20 minutes.
Best time: spring and summer, when the palace complements the surrounding greenery.
Special conditions: secured area, access may be restricted during official events.