Tvrdava Svetog Ivana (St. John's Castle), Kotor (must see)

Perched atop the hill behind Kotor, 260 meters (or 850 feet) above sea level, stands this fortress, reachable by navigating a series of bends and conquering some 1,300 steps. The breathtaking panorama from the summit rewards the climb: the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town, the meandering ria, and the pine-clad mountains stretching beyond.

The fortress derives its name from the church situated within its main citadel, first mentioned in 1440 and dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, which served the needs of the army stationed to guard the city walls. The ramparts span over four kilometers in total length, with thickness varying from two to sixteen meters and heights soaring up to twenty meters in certain spots.

Constructed over centuries, the fortress and its ramparts evolved into a formidable fortification complex. The city walls themselves are attributed to the Roman Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, while their current appearance took shape during the 17th century.

On your ascent, you'll encounter the quaint Church of Our Lady of Health, built in the 1500s as a safeguard against the plague. Along the way, four chapels once held paintings depicting feasts dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, now housed within the church itself.

Tip:
Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring plenty of water for the journey – you'll need it!