Njegoš Museum "Biljarda"

What this place is

Biljarda is the former residence of ruler and poet Petar II Petrović Njegoš, built in 1838 in Cetinje. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to his life and works.

Key features

• Built to the design of Russian engineer Yakov Ozerkovsky with financial support from Russia.
• Designed as a medieval-style fortress with towers and high walls.
• Originally had 25 rooms and measured over 70 m in length.
• Hosted Njegoš’s printing press (1834), later used as a seminary, gymnasium, and government offices.
• Since 1951, it has functioned as the Njegoš Museum.

What to see

• Exhibition on Njegoš’s life and work, including the original manuscript of The Mountain Wreath.
• His personal belongings, library, and artworks.
• Courtyard with a relief map of Montenegro (1916–1917).

History

Construction began in 1838 when the Cetinje Monastery could no longer house all state institutions. The new residence was named Biljarda after Njegoš’s favorite pastime – billiards.

The building was used both as a residence and as a seat for the Senate and state functions. After Njegoš’s death, it continued as the residence of Prince Danilo and briefly Prince Nikola until 1867, after which it housed various state institutions.

In the early 20th century, it was used by ministries, and between the World Wars as a military facility. In 1951, it became the Njegoš Museum, preserving the legacy of Montenegro’s greatest poet and ruler.

Practical information

Location: historic center of Cetinje, near Cetinje Monastery.
How to get there: short walk from city center, bus links from Podgorica and Budva.
Access: open to visitors, tickets required.
Visiting hours: daytime, aligned with the National Museum of Montenegro schedule.
Duration of visit: 45–90 minutes.
Best time: spring and summer, when both museum and courtyard are pleasant to explore.
Special conditions: some exhibition rooms may be closed during temporary installations.