Church of Our Lady of Health
Crkva Gospe od Zdravlja
A 16th-century hillside chapel overlooking the bay.
The chapel is associated with vows for protection from epidemics. The terrace offers classic views over the roofs and the bay.
How to Get There
On foot from Kotor center ~5-7 min.
From TIV airport (Tivat) by taxi/transfer ~14 min.
From TGD airport (Podgorica) by taxi/transfer ~59 min.
Description
Sacred Church Above Kotor
The Church of Our Lady of Health (Gospa od Zdravlja) is a small Catholic sanctuary from 1518, located halfway up to the fortress of Saint John. This is a place of special veneration as protector against diseases and troubles, where residents of Kotor have climbed for centuries with prayers for health and well-being.
Pilgrimage Ascent
Path to the sanctuary:
- 520-650 steps from the Old Town to the church
- Climbing time: 20-30 minutes of leisurely walking
- Best time: early morning or golden hour sunset
- Main feast day: November 21 (Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary)
Architectural Features
The church is a single-nave building with an open portico and elegant 18th-century bell tower (completed in 1727). Inside is a marble altar with images of Saint Tryphon - patron of Kotor and Saint Jerome - patron of Dalmatia.
Panoramic Views
From the terrace by the church portico, a breathtaking view opens over Kotor's Old Town and Kotor Bay. This is an ideal spot for photography and contemplating the beauty of the UNESCO site.
Living Traditions
On the feast day of November 21, pilgrims climb to the sanctuary with laurel branches, and several services are held. The church is revered by both Catholics and Orthodox residents of the region as a place of intercession in times of illness and trouble.
Practical Information
- Access: on foot via stone steps from the northern part of the Old Town
- Entrance fee: approximately €15 for passage along the fortress walls (2025 season)
- Wall opening hours: usually 8:00-22:00
- Dress code: modest covered clothing, comfortable shoes
Climb to this sacred sanctuary where centuries of prayers have blessed the stones, and experience one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Kotor Bay.
